Ame Torturée

Ame Torturee is a deeply complex, evocative fragrance that balances smoky, resinous depth with a surprisingly sweet and floral drydown. The opening features a gauzy, smoky bouquet centered on wisteria, which unfolds with a rich undercurrent of woody amber, benzoin, and olibanum. The floral note is not overtly feminine—described by some as night-blooming, dusky, or Gothicized—and is softened by coriander and neroli, lending a subtly spicy, green freshness. As it develops, the perfume settles into a warm, balmy drydown marked by vanilla, woodiness, and a soft incense-like aura, creating a sense of both earthiness and mystery. Despite its composition, the scent is not linear or predictable—it shifts noticeably over time, with some describing it as faintly moldy, dusty, or even animalic at first, though this diminishes with wear. It is intensely long-lasting, with noticeable trace and sillage even hours after application, and performs best in cooler seasons. While some find it intensely unsatisfying or strange, others find it profoundly captivating, likening it to an artistic, almost cinematic experience. The fragrance has a strong personality, suited to those drawn to unconventional, boundary-pushing scents.