by Nishane
Mana by Nishane is a deeply woody, spicy-sweet oriental with prominent leathery and oud accords, evoking a rich, layered scent that unfolds gracefully over time. It opens with a bold blend of black pepper, cardamom, ginger, and saffron, leading into a heart dominated by agarwood (oud), castoreum, and Turkish rose, creating a sultry, leather-tinged base layered with benzoin, guaiac wood, and smoky labdanum. The drydown reveals a powdery, ambered depth with sandalwood and patchouli, producing a sense of luxurious, almost regal endurance. Despite its consistent performance and impressive longevity—reported to last 12+ hours—the fragrance walks a fine line between being transformative and derivative. Many reviewers see it as a refined, slightly softer version of Louis Vuitton’s Ombré Nomade, with similar structure and overtones, though with greater concentration and projection. Its sillage is strong, making it suitable for nighttime wear and intimate gatherings, though it leans masculine in perception and preference.