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Russian Musk
by Areej Le Doré
Russian Musk by Areej Le Doré is a deeply layered, naturalistic chypre with a striking green and woody opening dominated by citrus, fir, pine, and cypress. The fragrance evolves into a complex, mossy, and musky heart where the animalic warmth of natural musk is woven through a rich tapestry of tonka bean, sandalwood, cinnamon, cloves, and patchouli. Despite its name, the musk isn’t overwhelming or harsh—the scent is approachable, with a cozy, enveloping quality that unfolds over time. The oud notes are subtle yet present, adding depth without dominating. There's a quiet elegance and melancholic refinement to the fragrance, described by some as a journey through wilderness, with hints of chocolate, toasted tonka, and warm amber in the drydown. It performs strongly, with excellent longevity and moderate to strong sillage, making it ideal for evening wear and for those who appreciate nuanced, dynamic scents rather than simple musk bombs.
Pros
- +Highly natural, layered, and well-balanced scent with exceptional depth and evolution
- +Good longevity and moderate to strong sillage, suitable for longer wear
- +Appealing to a wide audience despite its animalic personality—broadly wearable and nuanced
Cons
- −Musk is not the dominant note as expected—subtle and hidden within other layers
- −Can feel overwhelming or overwrought on some skin due to the complex blend
- −Cited as expensive, though many consider it worth the price for its artistry and quality