L'Heure Verte

L'Heure Verte by By Kilian is a bold, unisex fragrance centered around a hyper-realistic anise/licorice accord, evoking the essence of absinthe and herbal liqueurs. It opens with a sharp, green, and slightly medicinal burst of aperitif-like freshness, dominated by licorice, violet leaf, and absinthe, creating an immediately recognizable and intellectual scent. As it develops, the fragrance settles into a refined, woody dry down with patchouli, vetiver, sandalwood, and a subtle balsamic sweetness, forming a complex, slightly nutty, and mutedly sweet base that lingers warmly. The scent is not overtly sweet or gourmand—instead, it feels dry, herbal, and deeply structured, with a sophisticated, niche character that feels more like a liquid art piece than a daily wear. It leans into a more masculine-leaning aesthetic, though its unisex appeal is undeniable. Most wearers describe it as distinctive, rich, and highly evocative, with an elegant dry down that persists well into the day. However, it does not project strongly; sillage is moderate, often felt only close to the skin, and longevity varies, with some noting it lasts up to 8 hours, while others find it fades fairly quickly. Despite its niche quality, the fragrance has a somewhat divisive character. Those who appreciate its green, boozy, and licorice-driven profile find it intoxicating and unique; others may experience it as overly intense, medicinal, or focused solely on the licorice note, which can feel overwhelming in the long run.