Herod

Herod by Parfums de Marly is a richly blended, warm tobacco fragrance that centers on a sophisticated interplay of sweet vanilla, spicy cinnamon, and smoky incense. It opens with a bold, inviting blast of cinnamon and pepper, followed by a luminous, slightly fruity osmanthus note that adds a soft, apricot-like sweetness. The heart is defined by a creamy vanilla and earthy tobacco, enhanced by deeply nuanced notes of cypriol oil and labdanum, which contribute a gentle, resinous depth. The dry down settles into a softly smoky, woody base of cedar and vetiver, wrapped in a warm, comforting musk that lingers pleasantly. The scent is universally praised as elegant and wearable, evoking a refined, mature man in a smoking parlor setting, with some users noting it subtly leans feminine due to its floral and sweet notes. Despite its acclaim, performance remains a consistent point of contention. Most users report it projecting strongly for the first 3 to 4 hours, then fading into a close-to-skin scent, despite claims of long-lasting wear. While longevity can extend past 10 hours on some skin types and clothing, many find it only lasts for moderate durations, with sillage gradually softening after peak projection. This inconsistency is frequently cited as a major drawback, particularly given the high price point. Though the scent is lauded for its quality and note blend, many feel the refinement and depth justifies greater performance to match its premium cost.