by Miguel Matos
Miracle of Roses by Miguel Matos is a uniquely abstract rose fragrance that defies typical categorization. It opens with a gourmand, milky-cinnamon accord that evokes fresh wheat and a slightly sweetened beverage, creating an almost eerie sense of comfort and nostalgia. The rose here is not jammy or dark, but rather light, green, and watery—presented through a dreamy, powdery, and slightly dusty abstraction, more akin to an imagined rose than a real one. Throughout its evolution, it maintains a delicate balance between warmth and coolness, with a soft smokiness and incense-like depth emerging in the drydown. The fragrance grows increasingly personal and introspective over time, becoming a quiet companion that lingers with a soft, not-too-heavy projection. It is neither a bold nor a overwhelming scent, but rather one that envelopes the wearer in a surreal, reverent atmosphere, evoking imagery of ancient halls and sacred stories of miracles. Its performance is steady, lasting over 10 hours with moderate sillage and a lingering trail that is never intrusive. The fragrance has a strong emotional resonance—it is not merely about scent, but about feeling. It feels unisex in spirit, yet its warmth and complexity make it particularly resonant with those who appreciate unconventional, story-driven perfumes. It offers a rare sense of poetic solitude and introspection, compelling enough to be a beloved staple for lovers of refined, non-traditional rose fragrances. Some have noted its resemblance to Guerlain’s Santal Royal in feel, though it avoids sweet gourmand traps. It stands out not by being loud or overpowered, but by being quietly spellbinding and intellectually intriguing. The overall impression is of a gourmet perfume that avoids indulgence. It uses honey, milk, and cinnamon not as overt sweetness, but as textural components that add depth and a subtle bready note—not pastry, but bread in its raw, wheaty state. This gives the fragrance an atypical groundedness among floral gourmands. Despite its gourmand notes, it remains elegant and never veers into cloying territory.