Elixir des Merveilles Hermès for women

About 20 years ago I had a lover who doused himself in Azzaro, and I usually wore Theorema. Opening the clothes hamper to do our combined laundry released a really extraordinary and sensual smell. I realized today while daydreaming and doing my own laundry that Elixir des Merveilles comes quite close to replicating it. The ambery orange and measured sweetness of Theorema are there, plus a huge savory woody backbone that's more like a big traditional masculine. I just love it. My perception is that the current EDP release is smoother and lower contrast in feeling, and also less concentrated, than the original release was. It still lasts forever on clothing, but unless I've just gone nose blind to it from familiarity, the sillage and longevity on skin aren't as powerful as they once were. Not complaining that it's weak - it isn't.

Its beautiful. Orange, resins and dry woods, but without the woods dominating the composition. Instead the orange and the resins create a juiciness to counteract the dryness of the woody base. Its very refined and elegant despite the marmaladey orange and this juxtaposition makes it a delight.

My signature scent, it smells masculine, but to quote my friend, "like a rich man", so it's a very pleasant scent, definitely not a summer scent, maybe with some layering? It's a complex fragrance that is definitely not for everyone, and it's VERY long lasting, even after getting machine washed, the shirt I sprayed some on still had the scent of this perfume on it.

Not a safe blind buy! Complex, unisex, and long lasting. This fragrance smells slightly medicinal in the opening, it wait until the dry down to judge this one.
For me, it’s a like not a love- and with this price tag, that means I won’t be buying a full bottle.
However, if you like interesting, strong, citrusy/amber perfumes this might be perfect for you.

Holly smokes the dry down! I thought I hated it, then I liked it then hate again but this is so intoxicating. Trully unisex I'd say.

This is the stuff right here. A true magical potion. I had the Eau de Merveilles prior, and it's "nice" - a pleasant wear, typical dryness in the latter stages and similar to the elixir at that point.

This stuff is "where it's at". This has that zing, wow factor and punch. The original EDM is fine, but this is more.

Rich Seville oranges smothered in dark chocolate patchouli and unctuous ambers fade in and out for an entire day. Powerful wafts of smoky sparkly notes.

Others have noted the resemblance to Amouage's Jubilation XXV, which I also enjoy and I can very much concur.

A fantastic offering from Ellena who allegedly recommended layering it with Terre d'Hermés.

Another unique orange frag from Hermes. Here's an amberous, honied, resinous, almost medicinal blending.

The honied undertone really does this fragrance justice. Refined and subtle, without being mild. Awesome.

Elixir Des Mervielle smells exactly as the name would suggest...as the elixir version of the original Eau Des Merveilles. The same DNA is very apparent with enough differences to distinguish itself from the original. Though if you are someone who wants a very curated collection, having both may be a bit redundant. The original is a bit more versatile while the Elixir is well suited to cooler weather and special occasions.

The opening is dominated by syrupy sweet oranges and fresh, green woods. As it settles I start to smell a bit of peppery-ness, though it's not listed as a note. The resins and caramel make the orange smell more like an orange syrup/jam than a freshly squeezed orange juice. I find this fragrance is pretty linear. What I smell on my skin in the first ten minutes is what I smell many hours after application.

Sometimes I think this fragrance leans a little feminine and others I find it just a little masculine. I guess that really makes it unisex since I can't decide.

Elixir Des Merveilles is one of my holiday fragrances. The spiced, syrupy orange feels very festive without being overtly Christmassy. I only wear this fragrance in cooler weather. I find it too heavy and becomes suffocating in warmer weather. Because of the powerful performance I find not even a light application can be tolerated in the heat.

The performance is impressive. It lasts on my skin until I wash it off. Even 24 hours after application it is still noticeable on my skin. On hair and clothes it's presence is even more apparent. It even lasts on dogs for days. I was snuggling with my friend's little pup and two days later she texted me that her pup still smelled like me. Maybe three sprays was too much. I should have stuck with my usual 1-2 with this fragrance. The projection is pretty powerful. Even with a typical application of 4 sprays this can be room filling and overwhelming. I usually stick with 1-2 sprays, especially if I am going to be around others in a smaller indoor space.

I love how the bottles in this line are designed. They are fairly simple, but still super unique. The atomizer is smooth and generous without dousing you. I just wish the atomizer had a cap. Hermes fragrances are priced slightly higher that other designer fragrances, but I find the quality of their fragrances justifies that slight difference.

Strong amber-focused scent. I smell a lot of black pepper/something spicy in it, especially the opening.

@WhiteFlowerPrincess - Your description is so accurate. I completely agree. That was how I felt when I initially encountered Elixir de Merveilles. Now, many years later, though I do not wear it much, I occasionally crave it in the fall. As I read your review, the song, "You. you, you, you're gonna love me........." is rolling through my head 😂. I'd be curious to see if this is a common feeling with this perfume. As my perfume collection grew, Elixir de Merveilles went from a "close to abhorrent" to an "iconic". I currently have a healthy respect for its ingenuity and it will be one of the last ones standing in my closet.

Elixir des Merveilles is so deep and cozy scent. It opens with a bit sharp and fresh orange but after a while it becomes warm and gains a comforting velvety texture. My skin usually eats fragrances but this one lasts so long. If sprayed in the afternoon I can smell the remains even in the morning.

The orange peel gives it a bitter tang, pair that with all the different types of woods and the incense and u get a bitter, woodsy scent that takes a while to mellow down and leans a tad more masculine for my taste. It’s still a good fragrance though with an excellent projection and staying power.

When I smell this fragrance, I think of a woman steering a couple of black horses tied to a carriage while wearing black jodhpurs, black leather Hermés jumping boots and a bright orange Hermés scarf. It is winter time and the snow is falling from the heavens onto the cobble stone streets of Paris. She ends up at a little French cottage made of wooden logs at the edge of both a village and a fir forest. This perfume gives me very high end equestrian vibes and it is incredibly Hermés! The scent I think of when I think of Hermés, actually.

Elixir Des Merveilles by Hermés doesn't really seem to have top notes, heart notes and base notes and everything just seems to blend seamlessly together. I can still smell most of the notes individually though, despite this fragrance not changing much during its wear on me.

It's an ambery and woodsy fragrance with a dominant orange note and a deep and sticky resinous dry down that makes me think of amber sap from trees that evokes an orangey brown color. I get this from the orange peel, the Siam resin, the amber, the tonka bean and all of the different woods and patchouli used in this. I get gentle wafts of the incense now and again, too.

I get some of the vanilla and even less of the caramel towards the drydown at the end, but it really isn't as prominent to me as others on here. It adds some touches of sweetness, but it doesn't dominate this fragrance or turn it into a sweet gourmand fragrance at all. This dry down combined with the rest of the notes in this fragrance makes me think of Christmas and that is why I think of this as a fall/winter fragrance strictly meant for nightime ménage à trois only.

I'd say that I'd class this fragrance as fairly unisex, if not leaning towards being slightly masculine. It has enormous sillage as well as an enormous wear time of 13 and a half hours on my skin, so this fragrance is certainly a beast of a fragrance if you're into that!

I honestly find this perfume much too strong, woody and masculine for my tastes and it kind of makes me feel slightly ill. It also makes me think of old wooden cabinets that has just had orange juice spill on its shelves, so I really hate this fragrance... I'm honestly shocked that it is marketed to women and not to men! This is why I'd rate Eau Des Merveilles Elixir by Hermés just a 2.5/10.

Smells like if you ate orange candy, fell asleep on your arm and some of the orange concentrate infused saliva dribbled down your arm. The stickiness of the juice doesn't help in this regard.

This thing lasts and lasts but has zero projection. It was immediately a skin scent for me.

I tried to like this scent but I just can't. The opening gives off a funky animalistic aroma in my opinion. It reminds me of beef tripe. My wife likes it but it just doesn't work on my skin. My least favorite from the line

I had blind bought this. All of the notes listed in it are things that I like.

When I first sprayed it on, I got a flash of something metallic. (Bond's NYC amber is like this..) I did get the amber note, but it was not sweet like I was expecting. I also am nose blind to it, so after it dries down, I do not smell anything. Though it does have silage on me. I am greeted with compliments whenever I wear it.

I like it for the compliments it brings, but I am nose blind to it...So sad..

If you feel that you dislike it upon first trying it, GIVE IT TIME. I got a 100ml without testing, having thought that there is very little chance I wouldn't like it. Upon first trying, I was disappointed, as it came across as masculine or even unpleasant. A few weeks later I tried again, and it's been a happily ever after. A very high-quality amber fragrance. In spite of the pyramid visuals, nothing particularly sweet to me. Smells very natural, and organic. I live at a (cold) beach and it totally fits the surroundings. I love it when it's cool and humid but I haven't tried it in summer. Feels like the second skin to me rather than something I "wear". Lasting power is very good but not over the edge. The sillage isn't immense if you don't ovespray. Overall, it's quite polite but stays with you for as long as you want it to. A keeper 100%.

UPDATE 6 month later: Wow, definitely no rush with this one. It's continuing to surprise. I've tried it in warmer weather and it opened up to me even more, in stages, with some fun orange in the beginning, a sweeter core, and a divine drydown many, many hours later and even the next morning.

I gave it as a Christmas present to someone who wanted it because she thought she had it in the past, and at the same time, I discovered it, knowing only Eau des Merveilles. Impressed, it's a BEAST and an amber-citrusy atomic bomb with a touch of cedar to my nose. The intensity and projection make one wonder if you are wearing the perfume or if the perfume is wearing you. Personally, I do not mind, and I think it's a profound powdery orange blast with the Hermes fragrance signature. Wonderful for chilly weather (in particular on sunny days) as it is very warm. It's even too strong for the person who got it,; she preferred and in fact had the EDT, haha. If she doesn't want her bottle anymore, I wouldn't say no to taking it :P Def a winter signature scent vibe.

ORANGE CEDAR-RESIN. Imagine eating an orange in a steam room/sauna made of cedar & orange-wood. As you peel the orange, pith and juice burst from its seams while the oily essence leaks onto your fingers. Steam sizzles from the coals with a faint incense and you smell the tree resin sweating from the woods. Signed by perfumer Jean Claude Ellena, this amber fougere beauty opens with an effervescent burst of orange peel & siam resin that deepens into a caramel woody heart, resting on a cedar-oak base with touches of incense and patchouli. A lightly sweet cloud of balsam shampoo & orange-amber shows itself in the air, while on the skin I get more cedar, oak and incense. This reminds me of a wooden tray made of orange-wood and cedar that I got in Morocco. (Benefits from dark storage after first sprays to really blossom - up to a year).

Contrast to Colors de Benetton Benetton 1987 (OG):
Signed by Bernard Ellena, these are very different (especially the openings), but the way the amber is done is similar - slightly baby powdery, and appearing in the air more than the skin. CdB smells a little more like Eau des Merveilles and has more aromatic and green touches, and peach instead of orange. As these two dry down, they become even more similar, with that amber that is slightly like balsam shampoo and Love's Baby Soft by Dana characteristic of the range.

Contrast to Armaf Niche Oud:
Another Amber Fougere, these have some similarities while they're still quite different. Similar thick and resinous amber but Armaf Niche Oud is spicier and lacks the orange peel.

Contrast to Ambre Sultan Serge Lutens:
These are different, but the amber is similarly thick and resinous. AS has the standout bayleaf instead of orange peel.

Contrast to Ambre Lumiere Molinard:
These are different, but again the thick, sweet and resinous amber is similar. AL doesn't have orange peel.

Contrast to Scent Intense CoSTUME National:
These are different but there are some similarities with the thick, resinous amber. Scent Intense has a bolder approach with tea & hibiscus instead of orange peel.

Overall: Well above average performance, this scent has grown on me and my appreciation continues to develop the longer I have this in my collection. It's a love for me. Enjoy!

I start with the bottle: It is just GORGEOUS. Very unique, it makes you dream... A little magic potion.

Scent level:
- The start: It is very woody. And a bit unisex. Oddly enough, I found it to be very similar to So Elixir Bois Sensuel by YR. But just the start. Because afterwards, the evolution is completely different.
-The evolution: The woody side is softened by a soft amber with smoky, balmy accents. I don't know why it reminds me of the smell of an old pipe, left aside for a few years, but which keeps in it this nostalgic balmy scent, which is reminiscent of childhood at grandpa's.
-At the end of the day: We perceive a beautiful sweet accord, amber-vanilla, very cocooning, warm, round and comforting. It lasts very long, and persists until the next day on clothes.

I LOVE this scent. It creates in me unique, intimate and indefinable feelings. It has a little "Retro Vibe", but that's what makes it so dear to my heart.

9/10

This smells like a woodier version of Aesop resurrection - almost exactly like a hot morning in the redwood forest near Santa Rosa CA. Love love love this scent, sophisticated and genderless and bright and warm.

Smells like cedar mulch for the first 4-5 hours. Wood and resin- if I think really hard about orange, maybe some bitter orange oil in there too. Almost washed it off after an hour, but I try to give a fragrance at least 8 hours unless absolutely unbearable. At 6 hours I could finally smell some amber and the woody mulch smell had diminished. I can't detect any softness or vanilla. Not for me.

This is so addictive. At first spritz I thought it wasn't for me, it was too woody and medicinal. However is it continues to dry down and the edges round out it becomes a comfortable and cozy scent. Resinous, a soft smokey incense, and woody with a touch of orange rind. I am not getting any clear caramel or vanilla but I think it's adding a soft creaminess overall. You would think that the different woods would make it sharp, but it doesn't, it reminds of falling asleep in front of a fireplace as it slowly dies down.

The projection and scent trail really adds to the magic.

It's not something that suits my lifestyle from a day to day perspective, but I know that when I do wear it, I will feel like a boss.

I am testing this on one arm, and Narciso Rodriguez Musc Noire Rose on the other, and together OMG I think this would be a banger of a layering combo.

Scent packed with so many memories for me! Annoyingly this is exactly the reason I can’t wear it anymore.

But to anyone just discovering Elixir — it is a beautiful fragrance which does exactly as Hermès advertises — makes you feel happy and wonderful (writing this after a cheeky test at my local John Lewis after a few years not smelling it anywhere).

This is a warm, woody, and a bit citrusy scent. After an hour the caramel comes in and the orange fades for me. This entire scent leans pretty masculine for me.

This scent feels a bit basic for me. I think it would make a good office scent especially during the colder months.

Elixir des Merveilles is a beautiful blend of spiced orange, resins, balsams, and incense, with a creamy caramel sweetness and a haunting animalic amber undertone. The dry down is a warm, cozy, dry woods. Magical, young, vibrant, and wealthy. Silage is powerful enough to last forever.

A heavy, syrupy, borderline cloying version of the original. I can see how some might like it better, but it looses the sheerness, gauziness, and balance that elevate EdM to masterpiece level

Bought this for my boyfriend and he smells amazing and it lasts all day. He goes to work and comes back in the evening and I can still smell it on his skin. Fantastic fragrance.

Orange peel definitely lasts throughout and is the main stage taker for my nose. But this is a very dark Ambery orange peel. Delicious. i wouldnt have said it was a womens fragrance to be honest. More female leaning but definitely unisex on the right man.

Initially I get very strong orange peel scent, then something more masculine shows up, like pepper, but now looked at the notes and that's cedar and amber. It's so unique and magical in cold Autumn evenings.

Salty, caramel sweet, resinous orange

Initial opening I got Dr. pepper , and vanilla. As that wore off I got the resins, but though the resins came through I also got a rot smell ... imagine a forest with a dying carcass nearby. The tangy amber resins are the dry down, but that rot smell though tempered did not fully go away. Not a safe blind buy. Try before you buy a full bottle. Thankful I got only a manufacturer’s sample. Definitely doesn’t work with my chemistry.

I've been wearing it regularly for 8 or 9 months now and it has become one of my all-time favorites. The orange is definitely, by far, the strongest note for me. It is a beautiful, mouth-watering orange that is not overly sweet. Reminds me a little bit of orange marmalade, some scent of the peel is there. Absolutely fantastic!

Despite that fact that there are 11 other notes listed in the pyramid, the orange is extremely dominant for me (I think my skin amplifies citrus, or that I am particularly sensitive to citrus fragrances). I get a little bit of caramel, some amber and in the late dry-down a hint of cedar. But I'm not complaining! This is one of the best ever in my opinion.

I have tried several other Hermes fragrances and while I love many of the scents, I've always experienced poor performance. The Hermessence frags which I have tried, for instance, smell beautiful but are really pitiful performers for me. Elixir des Merveilles and Terre d'Hermes (another favorite of mine) are only two Hermes that I've had luck with in terms of performance. I get several hours and moderate to strong sillage. I've also received several compliments while wearing it. I find it to be mostly linear, although the cedar comes out little bit more after a couple of hours.

One little side note that may interest fellow fragheads: I have often read here on Fragrantica about fragrances that smell differently after they have "settled" for a few days or weeks, but until now I've never had that experience myself. On first application, this had a very strong cedar, woodsy, green smell. I couldn't believe it was the same fragrance I had sampled, it smelled COMPLETELY different! But on my second application a few days later, it had "miraculously" changed into the scent that I now know and love. Highly recommended!

I consider this the bigger sister of eau des merveilles, a louder, but in my opinion less “classy” one. While Eau des merveilles is a delicate balance of Orange and resinous woods, I consider Elixir most prominent in the Orange and the resinous amber and this leads ti a very warm fragrance. I’m not saying I don’t like it, but I find the former way more balanced, unfortunately i wish it had the same sillage as Elixir. It is still a great fragrance, unique despite the sweet musky oversold on the market.

The best way I’ve heard to describe this is if you smelled the inside of a brand new luxury purse. I’ve never had a luxury purse like Hermès but I like to imagine that

I get compliments on it and it gives a fresh non-floral citrus woody amber accord. I have a full bottle that I’ve almost finished. I have a bottle of Eau de merveilles to use next

It’s a savoury, salty, caramelised orange-amber with a dry honeycomb core and a metallic edge. I’m grateful that the vanilla here is not noticeable at all. This is a perfectly balanced amber, that’s relaxed and effortless, but when it lasts around 4/5 hours, is that good enough to buy a full bottle? I love it and enjoy wearing it, but I need it to last for my entire working shift.
I’m just hoping for an intense extrait version and I’ve found my perfect scent.

Oh this is fabulous! One of the best modern ambers. No wonder I like it as it is Jean-Claude Ellena creation. It's just unbelievably warm, but there is no cloying sweetness, no suffocating spiciness, no dry woodiness, just hints of everything which makes it perfectly balanced rich bronze toned amber. So comforting, so understated, relaxed and effortless. Simply beautiful. I find it unisex, it's aromatic and the aroma is not too heavy so it can even be worn during warmer days. Also, I hope people are able to distinguish other Merveilles from this one as some reviews seem much more suitable for other versions. Like algae comparisons...+

Initially smelt this on a strip of paper and it was stunning! The candied orange peel note developed so well on the paper. Elixir is definitely my favorite from the Merveilles line.

However, I tried it in store and it immediately turned animalic on me (almost like saliva mixed with the musk of animals). I had it on me until I came back home and I barely smelt any orange in it the way I did on the paper. I have had the same experience with L'Ombre des Merveilles, so I'm assuming it has something to do with my skin chemistry.

I have noticed a few other reviews mentioning how Elixir turned bad on them too. So I would definitely not recommend blind buying, even if you have smelt it before on paper.

There's something magical that I think Jean Claude Ellena was able to do with some of his creations - Terre D'Hermes, Concentre D'Orange Vert etc. He was somehow able to add heft and weight to perfumes that do great in the warm weather. This one is no different.

This creation is jammy, fruity, spicy - almost like a marmalade. And the sweetness seems so natural and balanced with the spice, never getting screechy. The resins sitting in the mix seem to provide this the warm bed density it needs to nestle the sweetness like a hug, so it never overpowers. And the hint of incense just elevates this to magic.

This has quickly become potentially my most favored scent for a warm evening, or a humid evening after a rain.

Oh and just in case you didn't notice I am a dude - this is unisex perfection... if I'm comfortable wearing this, a lot of guys will be too...

9/10

Oddly, this reminded me of CK Escape for Men. Mind you, I hadn’t smelled Escape for Men since my BFF wore it back in the 90s when she and I were 13 or 14 years old. So I decided to compare side by side.

While Escape for Men shares quite a few notes with Elixir des Merveilles, Escape for Men is fruitier, lighter and more feminine leaning than this fragrance is. I can definitely see why people get an aftershave vibe.

This is nice, unisex and inoffensive. Doesn’t wow me though.

Sweet spicey caramelized orange with an medicinal edge In the background, unique... Smells expensive.

Very unisex scent depending on the environment, definitely not a summer scent.

Longevity and sillage above average

I was very excited to try this based on the notes, but I didn't like it. Reminded me of how one of my primary school teachers smelled like & I thought this smells a little like aftershave (seen few others mentioning this too - strange!). Disappointment. Thought this would've been a love!

It smells like sea salt, unlike its ingredients. Yes, a salty sea water covered with algae on the beach comes to mind in my mind. After a while the scent smells like a wet old tree. It smells like an old, rained tree trunk covered in resin and moss. The resin smell is quite palpable. This makes it unique from other perfumes and immediately attracts attention in an environment.
Contrary to the votes here, the permanence and silage value are not low. It stays on fabric for more than 8 hours. It stays on the skin for up to 4 hours. The spreading rate lasts up to 3 hours.

I don't believe this fragrance has a gender. Each person will have a different character. Your old grandmother can use it, a 15-year-old young girl can also use it. I think it can be used by both men and women. Like the smell of spring and summer.

Opens wide, like a big breath of air when you've been peeling an orange. Dries to a nice cologne/incense balance. Dead center unisex. Good endurance. Arm's length radiance after a reasonable application. Unsweetened. Not at all hippie or oriental smelling which some of the descriptors might lead me to expect.

Reading the reviews below, I was a bit surprised to see this called mature, boss bitch, OL, but on reflection I'll admit I'd rather have my accountant smell like this than something hypersweetened as is popular right not. However I'd argue it's not dated. It's more casual than the tailored and couture scents of the Guerlains and Chanels and more expensive and modern smelling than the powerhouse Liz Taylors, Liz Clairbornes and Charlies.

Very wearable, but more of a slacks scent than hoodie ready.

I used it for a very short time period. Despite being a huge fan for spicy scents, I did not thrilled by this perfume, honestly. Its bitter, somehow, and it did not suited well with my skin. Perfume reminds me a business woman who 40+, a girl boss kind of scent. I have at least 15 years for this perfume..
But, I noticed that, majority of men liked Elixir a lot. I got tons of compliments from guys.

❄️♪𝒞𝒽𝓇𝒾𝓈𝓉𝓂𝒶𝓈 𝓉𝒾𝓂𝑒 𝒾𝓈 𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒
𝐻𝒶𝓅𝓅𝒾𝓃𝑒𝓈𝓈 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒸𝒽𝑒𝑒𝓇
𝐹𝓊𝓃 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝒶𝓁𝓁
𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝒸𝒽𝒾𝓁𝒹𝓇𝑒𝓃 𝒸𝒶𝓁𝓁
𝒯𝒽𝑒𝒾𝓇 𝒻𝒶𝓋𝑜𝓇𝒾𝓉𝑒 𝓉𝒾𝓂𝑒 𝑜𝒻 𝓎𝑒𝒶𝓇♪🎄

Ladies and gentlemen, Elixir des Merveilles by Hermes. Thank you JCE.

And imagine this. It is a snowy day today where i live, so the stars have aligned for me to wear this today.

This might not be the most expensive perfume I own but it's the one I reach for when I'm trying to feel rich: I feel like I'm wrapping myself in a fur coat and then going into a fancy bakery and ordering one of everything. It's heavy but not overwhelming; sweet but not sickening; a bit old-lady-ish without being dated. To my nose it's all orange and amber and burnt caramel. Lasts for hours on my skin and I always get compliments.

Rich aunt smell. That's what it smells like. Really orangey but the Resin gives it a really expensive feel to it. This is one of the few amber fragrances that work on me. The bottle is also really pretty, it's a work of art. It's really gender-neutral and the sillage is moderate. I do love it so 10/10. It's def a perfect fall fragrance.

Three hours into this, I am still getting whiffs of orange. How can that be? I would describe myself as a white-florals kind of girl, and indeed, they make up a large portion of my collection. I never would have thought I would fall for something so ambery and full of resins and woods. Not a white flower on the horizon, but I'm loving it. Just ordered a bigger bottle so I can enjoy it more often and for a longer time.

I enjoyed wearing my bottle of Elixir des Merveilles Hermès...it says for women, but I thought it was definitely a unisex scent to say the least...leaning considerably to masculine...as some reviews indicate.
I think the pungent orange scent makes it not so much feminine. Not yet sure if I will re-purchase, although I went thru my bottle in about a year. Maybe I'll just take a little break.
The BTW I tried a sample of Eau des Merveilles...the Elixer was much stronger, again, more masculine and so went for it.

The resins and woods are masterfully blended and the spicy orange gives it a kick. It can smell like a Christmas pomander and the Atlantic Ocean depending on your skin and weather and at the same time. I find that it works marvellously in all seasons.
It is very strong and although I don't believe in gender distinction in perfumes, it can be "read" as traditionally masculine by lovers of more delicate fragrances.
I will use up my bottle but will go back to Eau des Merveilles once it is finished as I find it milder.

Zesty orange in the opening, then it dries down to an amazing, sweet, incense, citrussy amber. It's more unisex. Love it. ❤

Mostly a incense and amber smell
It's quite manly and very strong

This was my first blind buy. Im a man in my late thirties. And have a hard time finding the right perfume for me. Even though I have a full beard, im not super macho. So a lot of male perfumes feels wrong on me.
I do like earthy notes, and orange and amber.

SO this is perfect for me, Changes a lot. First 20 minutes, really strong. Only minus is, that is last max about 4-5 hours. Then its a skin scent.

Not sure what I was expecting, but at first this is a sweet, real orange smell, a real gourmand. There’s a warmth behind it too. Rather lovely.
As it dries the real orange fades slightly, and more of the amber and incense come through.
It has a slight boozy feel too, like Cointreau.

So great sweet candied orange not in a cheap way, smells more expensive than it is love love love

Such high hopes for this one, dashed by reality as it turns out. This was a scrubber for me. I bought it blindly because the bottle is gorgeous. It’s a shame that this doesn’t work for me. I don’t smell orange peel or caramel, I smell pine and something of a urine type quality.

This is a review of a blind buy and my feelings of it upon first application on the back of my hand/arm. 12/15/21

I can’t even express how much I adore this perfume! From beginning to end it is stunning! It is amber, woody, balsamic, citrusy, slightly sweet, caramel, vanilla a little spicy and resinous!

This is definitely an atmospheric fragrance. It transports you and gives a certain feeling of a place or time… it might be different for others, but to me it feels like taking a step back in time and walking into an old fashioned, log cabin, in the middle of a forest during the holidays… there are hints of chocolate, candied orange peel, caramel, toffees and the soft scent of vanilla. All the scents of making all the holiday goodies… and there is a fire burning in a huge, central, fireplace, so you get this slight smokiness wafting throughout. Warm, cozy and cheerful

Elixir is a perfect name for it! There is something about it that is so addicting, I just can’t stop myself from sniffing my arm over and over again.

• I have had it on for over an hour and I am still in love with everything about it. I feel the woody notes are coming though a little more, but it is still holding onto the the warm, resins and less of the caramel, vanilla and candied orange peel, but they are definitely still there.

• I think this is definitely a unisex scent. It can be loved and enjoyed by any gender or age, although I have read a lot of reviews that have said it will probably be more liked by the 30+ crowd, well I definitely fit there, so that could be true.

Hermes Elixir des Merveilles (2006) - Orange Amber - #jeanclaudeellena ‘s perfume resembles an orange enrobed in sticky resins and salty vanilla caramel. Though he balances the accord by adding incense and woods - to avoid being too sweet or uninteresting. It’s also balanced by a saline-ambergris like accord that helps lighten the accord and gives it lift. An orange delight.

Um, okay, so if this is "for women", then I think they meant women in their boyfriend's button down white shirt.
Think:
Fall, daylight saving time, she's at her boyfriend's apartment. It's chily, he turns on the fireplace, the hardwood floors glisten from the vanilla candles he as lite for her to set the mood.
He serves her a glass of sweet bourbon. They kiss and now she is wearing his shirt and smell like him.

I really like it, a lot. It's delicious, however, it's just way too masculine for me. I asked my husband if he wanted it, he didn't care for it. So now either I find a sweeter more feminine fragrance to blend it with to soften it. See if my dad or brother like it, or sell/trade it?
Any ideas?

I enjoy using it in all seasons. The dominant scent of orange peel blends beautifully with amber and wood notes.
I can describe it as the office scent of a stylish woman over 30.

It will always be in my collection.

It’s a beautiful, warm fall/winter/holiday everyday scent. The orange peel is gorgeous and I love the woodsy notes and amber. I just wish it was stronger/would last longer on my skin/clothes!

As a longtime admirer of Hermès fragrances, I was keen to finally try Elixir des Merveilles. Composed by the inimitable Jean-Claude Ellena, this is an unusual yet wearable scent that is all the better for Ellena's signature light touch. It is very similar to the original Eau des Merveilles - but this warmer, richer flanker is my preference. Perfectly unisex, it is an unusual composition with a traditional chypre drydown, featuring rich, caramelised amber.

The opening is rich and warm, dominated by tart, spicy orange notes. It is briefly reminiscent of spicy candied citrus at Christmastime, but develops into a slightly sweet ambery phase with a hint of caramel and/or burnt sugar. It remains softly spicy.

As the citrus subsides, it becomes more earthy, with incense and resins coming to the fore as it develops. It is softly smoky with an aromatic undertone. It is salty and musky too, which adds a subtle sensuality.

EDM becomes chypre-like at its drydown stage. Deliciously woody and mossy, it becomes curiously cool in contrast to its warm opening. In this way, it is unusual and counterintuitive in its development on the skin, the opposite of how most fragrances tend to develop on skin with body heat. The opening of EDM is more like a typical drydown, citrus aside.

Deceptively light and airy despite a plethora of rich ingredients and unusual accords, this scent is an acquired taste. More oriental than gourmand yet with chypre characteristics; airy yet rich, EDM is an intriguing, addictive contradiction. Sillage is strong and longevity is moderate, and it garners compliments. Made with the high quality ingredients typical of Hermès, combined with Ellena's skill, this scent is something special. Orange-amber goodness, this is one of my favourite amber scents. A marvel. 4.5/5.

I strongly disliked this on first whiff some time ago. Funny how things change. I really like it now. It's sweeter and heavier than Eau des Merveilles, like a spiced orange candle or cocktail and a great alternative to des Merveilles for cooler months. It's like a waxy, candied amber reminiscent of a holiday candle but a step above it. Sweet but a smokey-spice sweetness that qualifies as a subtle gourmand with an air of sophistication. Perfectly unisex as well.

Definitely unisex, perhaps even leaning masculine! I personally would love to smell this fragrance on men, it’s too woody-earthy for me to pull off (the sweet opening did fool me initially)...I personally need florals on my skin. But, overall this elixir is cozy, warm and happiness inducing. Makes me think of fall-time, falling leaves, walking in the woods, and the yummy overtones of salted caramel + ripe oranges just makes me happy! It also makes me think of Christmas...Christmas trees, log cabins, orange pomanders, caramel toffee, and curling up by a fireplace. Such an atmospheric and nostalgic fragrance ☺️ It’s really not that sweet nor gourmand though (especially compared to other vanilla/caramel scents marketed to women these days!), but it is deliciously earthy and cozy. Longevity and sillage are both great and does not disappoint. Great gift for your man that you can steal spritzers from anytime you want 😉 I’m quite confident that this fragrance is really meant to be unisex! No where on the bottle or box does it state that it’s ‘for women’ or ‘pour femme’. So yes, you can safely gift this to a man. This would make a great fall/winter signature for any man wanting something distinctive that alludes towards the gourmand without full-on being one (and a scent most guys aren’t already wearing)...you do have to like oranges. Or ofcourse, for ladies who can live without a single floral note in their scent (I can’t).

The dry down is way too masculine and woody for me.

You know how in sci-fi movies, in 2070 we've dispensed with having to do anything manually and all ablutions and applications will be done in a high-tech 'spray n wash' pod that auto disperses everything? Well this is what I'm be having sprayed all over me in liberal quantities on the daily. Love it. If alcohol didn't seem like it would smart on the nethers, I'd bathe in it.
All my favourite notes; Orange, patch, caramel.... musky deliciousness. Will literally wear this anywhere, any time, any place (including 2070, where I look like something out of Blade Runner but will smell like orange sticky toffee pudding in the pub, by the fire circa 2019).

Hobo by my side.

As everyone says this is a fantastic warm, skinlike, amber fragrance. The only problem is that on me for the first hour or more there is a horrible loud smell associated to the otherwise beautiful fragrance. It is like a severely unwashed person trying to cover up with some cypress/pine cologne.

Elixir de Marveilles is an orange delight but not citrus or light, it is rather ripe, pulpy and candied with light hints of vanilla and sandalwood and accompanied by a dark and earthy patchouli that gives a certain chocolate accord to that orange as if it were of a bonbon filled with this jam, but not extremely sweet but rather that dark and bitter cocoa, all this on an amber and resinous base with a certain medicinal touch due to the benzione.
The opening the first time did not make me fall in love, but without a doubt I have taken a liking to it, this perfume created by Master Jean-Claude Ellena for the Hermès house which is far from its comfort zone (those minimalist and neat those who have us accustomed) and contrary to the majority of brand creations, it has a great performance, the duration on the skin can exceed 8 hours and it projects well enough.
It can be a perfectly unisex fragrance because here there are no traces of any flower, this is an oriental with gourmand touches that although it is intended for the female public and has a certain sweetness, it would not clash in a man.

Oh, I think somebody burned the caramel. :)
Seriously it's deep, mysterious, smokey to my nose. The caramel isn't identifiable but must be the salted variety and adds to the complexity.
I think this one is good for wearing your cloak and chanting incantations. Expect something mythic to materialize.

My go-to-perfume for winter. Very suitable for office or indoor since my colleagues enjoyed it so much when I walked by. Make you feel so warm like sitting next to a fireplace.

It’s been reformulated again 🤦♂️ Thank god I kept two old bottles (not for sale - sorry) the new formulation is pretty much the same but it lasts less.

In response to D&gredcap above, I noticed the bottle and packaging were not the same when I bought it two days ago, but didn't think much of it at the time.... My first reaction to not seeing that familiar orange bottle, did kind of fill me with a veneer of suspicion, I'm one of those die hards that don't respond well to sudden changes to what I consider my reliable staples. This is the one scent I prayed would be spared any tweaks or other kind of gimmicks to attract a new or younger "market", so I was kind of let down by the new packaging.

After removing it from the box and spraying it in the air and on my jacket, I expected noting less than that magical, decadent, dense yet transparent aroma, that envelops me like a cashmere blanket, wrapping me in sheer luxury...with that nuclear projection...but now I'm not really sure the performance is living up to what I've become accustomed to.

It smells the same yes, it elicits that same mind blowing, heart-skipping response, with the trail piercing through the rooms but, there's that "but" that I can't pinpoint.

It stayed with me throughout the day yesterday, infusing my office with my presence, even better when letting the icy cold winter breeze enter through the window...my car was still smelling of me in the afternoon, but I'm not having that same state of mind being convinced it actually is the same as it used to be...Maybe it's the sight of the new bottle, which I regrettably do not believe does justice to the elixir inside- the orange color was more fitted, while the current bottle represents the eau de toilette better. Change is hard to accept, especially when not anticipated...loyalty makes it even that much harder but I'm a slave for this scent, have been for over a decade...I guess I'll remain devoted.

It’s been reformulated again 🤦♂️ Thank god I kept two old bottles (not for sale - sorry) the new formulation is pretty much the same but it lasts less

I thought I'd really enjoy the contrast of "masculine" and "feminine" notes of Elixir des Merveilles, so I spent the day with this fragrance and I completely get why it's so well-loved. I did not really enjoy the opening—it's screechy and there are too many notes demanding attention, but after 15 minutes everything began to smooth out and the magic started to happen. The mid/dry down is exquisite and I could really appreciate the nuanced resins, caramels, and ambers and their juxtaposition with the more woody, earthy, and spicy notes. Sadly, after about an hour, any hint of sweetness disappears, and what's left is a very dry, austere, and serious scent. Usually, my chemistry amplifies sweet, resinous notes, but sadly, that is not the case here. Great longevity and scent trail. This is definitely unisex, which I love, but I just wish the warmth stuck around for the life of the fragrance. It's a well-done composition, well-suited for the over 30 crowd, and most definitely worth trying.

I do not like this at all. My type is sweet gourmand fragrances, sickeningly sweet intoxicating scents. My faves are Olympea, La vie est belle and Angel. This is the exact opposite of that. It smells so masculine to me! And so "industrial", harsh, and annoying! I love the bottle but the scent is not on my alley whatsoever. Very strong.

Immediate love! This is so bougie and special. Leans more unisex than feminine but boy do I get rich auntie vibes from Elixir. I don't get very loud projection but I can smell myself--which is important to me. Wafts of orange zest, amber and something a little herbal with a touch of sweetness. I find this to be a hot weather fragrance and I felt that this would be my alternative to TF Eau de Soleil Blanc (since the performance on that is pretty abysmal for the price). Not as clean but I like that about it.

Maybe not suited for a younger audience but what from Hermes is? That said, I'm in my early thirties and hopelessly in love. And no, my bf is not welcome to this bottle and he finds it quite feminine.

Love the edt but elixer tops it quite a bit for me, i think its suitable for all seasons although in heat I would go easy on the trigger.

Amazing longevity, i could still get wafts of this beauty first thing in the morning and my skin eats fragrance so you dont need to overspray, 3 sprays is enough and even then I found it quite strong around my neck.

I see this more of a 30 above fragrance, its not your typical gourmand girly fragrance and it can pull quite masculine. Im really surprised its not marketed as unisex.

oh my goodness...for me, elixir de merveilles is what i imagine how "the good place" would smell like.

this fragrance transports you to a luxurious day at the spa in a beautiful forest. the day starts with the best massage of your life with a nourishing orange essential oil, followed by a cozy and relaxing herbal infused soak in the hot springs, while the steam from the cedar wood sauna and the gentle smoke from the soothing sandalwood incense rises in the background, and drifts around you.

warm, unique, and alluring unisex fragrance. i might try to get my partner to wear this, so that he can join me in "the good place" too :)

Smells like one of the traditional Chinese medicine.

That’s weird that nobody mentioned similarities between this and Ormonde Jayne Ambre Royal!

Stunning stunning stunning.

A true masterpiece from the house of Hermes. On application you will get a citrusy-airiness akin to a ripe orange that has been left in the sun. Mixed in is a light sweetness that, along with a musky amber, create a stage for the fresh citrus to perform on. This sweet amber base does not step forward to steal the show but is simply there to support the freshness of the orange opening. After 20 minutes the the citrus takes a small step back, the amber takes a small step forward but then a new player arrives to share the stage with the citrus: the salt. If you think about the opening as a fresh orange left in the sun, the middle notes would be described as adding fresh sea-water to the orange and then letting them lay on warm sand. At the dry-down the sweet amber takes the stage with the saltiness to create a uniquely sweet, slightly salty muskiness.

This perfume tells the story of a perfect summer day at the beach. The morning is full of energy, spent with friends playing in the waves. This is followed by a bit of relaxing on your towel just enjoying the view. At the end of the day what's left is the musky remains of a day spent in the water and sand. A beautiful story of youth and happiness.

Performance is above average to good. projection and silage trail is great but to be completely honest I wear this scent for myself alone. It's intoxicating and nuanced and just plain good.

I have to disagree with a lot of what others have said about this being a pure cold-weather fragrances. When compared side by side with Eau des Mervielles, that may seem the case but if you were to judge it on its own merit then this is through and through a summer scent. The "cold weatheriness" of the sweet amber is so light and effervescent that this in no way strays into fall/winter territory.

Final Thoughts: This fragrance has tones that will sing to anyone and everyone regardless of gender or age. A true masterpiece.

I adore this perfume, reminds me of my childhood, and smell and old fashion perfumes and my grandmothers space and their cosmetic cabinets and wardrobe. So, this is the scent of older cool people, in best possible sense, someone that was awesome, full of life and decadent in 1930s, and stays like that all the way to elderly age. This perfume can be used for certain moods and spleens. It's great for a beach and a nature, and all outdoor ocasions, open air and travel. It's not sexy or seductive, but it is very addictive. It's the scent of dignity, freedom and authority that comes from a strong spirit of the person, not from a ugly social hierarchies. Very strong and long lasting, and never intrusive, discreet at the same time. This perfume is not for layering, just to enjoy it from time to time by itself. Also, someone can dislike it, depends of scents associations, so try before you buy.

Welcome to the chateau. Get ready to pull on your best and tallest English riding boots. Stride forth ivy league elitist, merry one percenter. Trust that no other smells as good as you. This perfume is so opulent and rich it almost feels like insider trading. I suggest sampling this before purchase. Elixir des Merveilles is not for just anyone. A resinous orange syrup left in the sun to solidify. Amber is indeed the color of her energy. I have nothing like this in my perfume wardrobe and honestly wonder if I am even qualified to wear it. I find Elixir to be beautiful. I appreciate it`s subtle dryness... like champagne or the best kind of humor. Enjoy your fox hunt.

One of the most pleasant fragrances from the house of Hermes and created by no other than Jean Claude Ellena.
For me, it smells fresh, expensive soapy, fruity, and a bit florally... (?) but it doesn't list floral and fruity notes which is odd but nice, I guess my nose picked up natural scents that almost feel like a floral or a fruity scent. I guess it is the sweet balsamic accord that gives me that feeling. anyway...
This fragrance reminds me of a mature woman who is extremely confident but not in an arrogant way but in a sweet manner, nothing egoistic or narcissistic in this scent, truly beautiful, a bit spicy 9/10
Knowing I love amber this one hits the best and is one of the greatest amber scents out there in my opinion.
I looooove this so much.
After having smelt this multiply times I realized this reminded me of a teacher I had back when i was a teenager...she was kind anyway it is a warm welcoming bold scent.

what a unique scent!
Opening notes transport me back to Mediterranean beach every single time, the smell of salty water mixed with citrus and pines. It mellows down into a musk/vanilla softness and it lasts all day long!
Divine

Elixir des Marveilles is a stunning swirl of spiced orange, resins, balsams and incense, infused with a creamy caramel sweetness and a haunting animalic amber undertone.

As the scent's complex top notes subside and the fragrance warms on the skin, it becomes ever more intoxicating, becoming more sultry, even salty and savory. The dry down is a comforting, warm dry woods.

This will be sublime as the cooler weather approaches.

Unfortunately this is a no from me, and I'm bummed because of all the raving reviews. Based on the notes I thought I would have absolutely loved this. But on me it does not smell nice at all. I do not get any of the sweet elements of this; the orange, vanilla, or the caramel. Caramel was the main reason I got a sample vial of this...but all I get is deep and bitter woody notes. There are some slightly resin-y and spicy aspects but still it remains very bitter. It really gives me a medicinal herbal vibe. Its a bit too aromatic and manly for my liking. I enjoy the fragrance from afar, possibly on my husband or just on someone else. But its quite headache inducing for me personally. Lasting power was good, lasting a solid 5/6 hours on me.

Breathtaking. This is like the nighttime counterpart to the original eau des merveilles (though in all honesty I wear this more during the day). This has the same citrus orange and woody notes as the original, but in this one, the amber is amped up and caramel replaces the pepper that is at play in the other. The result is something resembling the original (citrus, sparkling, woody) but deeper and sweeter, with a toned down spicyness. Instead of predominantly fresh spicy like the original, you get balsamic and warm. I would agree that this one leans more feminine than the other, but it is still safely unisex imho.

The caramel here does give it that sweet undertone, but I would emphasize that this is not a gourmand. This isn't LVEB or Black Opium in the least. It's an elevated sweetness and not a safe blind buy imho. If you like eau des merveilles, there's a chance you'd like this one, but it's not a given, and vice versa. I love them both, with this one being my pick for cold weather.

As a point of reference-- I sprayed one on each wrist and asked my boyfriend (who loves fresh, clean scents, especially tea notes) which he prefers. He disliked both but hated this one. He said he'd choose eau des merveilles if he had to because it smells fresher. I don't care-- I choose both.

Performance is stronger here than in original-- longevity is 12 hours, projection is moderate to strong. Beautiful. About to go spray it now...can't help it :)

Beautiful, glistening amber scent with a woody base. This is truly gorgeous and far better than the original. The top note is a spiced, almost dried Christmas orange. It quickly dries down into a woody, unisex fragrance. The amber becomes very apparent and has a syrupy texture. There is also some smoky, resinous accord which plays beautifully alongside the festive spices. It’s still refreshing and clean in accordance with the Hermes theme.
It has the familiar refined character and simplicity that is consistent throughout the line.
It’s sweet in a sophisticated and natural way that is balanced, similar to a treacle tart. It isn’t as cold and distant as 24 Fauborg or Twilly. It’s certainly more cheerful and approachable but maintains that exclusive aura.

This is suitable for all ages but for some reason I’m picturing a very confident, slightly mature and worldly brunette. This reminds me of luxurious Christmas parties and gatherings in the winter. It isn’t provocative in any way but it’s really special.

If après-ski had a scent, Elixir de Merveilles would be it. Balsamic, toasty, expensive, yet natural. Melds with your skin for an unbelievably sensual drydown. Picture a roaring fire next to a leather couch, cashmere throw, sipping on an Old Fashioned. Earthy, rich. and utterly sexy on a man as well.

I like this a tiny bit now that I can associate it with Tom Selleck. Thank you @ekowala7!
I have yet to find a Hermes fragrance that appeals to me. This one just smells like vanilla scented pine cleaner to me. It’s harsh and medicinal. Can’t tolerate it enough to get to the dry down as it burns lungs. Sorry, it’s a hard pass, scrubber for me. I definitely don’t think it’s a safe blind buy.

I'll keep it short and sweet: if you're bored of the over-saturation of LVEB/Flowerbomb/La Nuit Tresor/Bon Bon style gourmand scents then this is a classy choice.

It's sophisticated without being sweet, not overly feminine but still attractive. Bold, mature yet playful.

Performance is fantastic, the entire Hermes Merveilles line are winners. Fully recommend trying out in colder seasons!

A no from me. I love the idea of this range but they just don't smell nice to me at all, which is a pretty basic requirement for a perfume! I don't get any orange, vanilla or caramel. I just get patchouli and cedar and other unidentifiable dark bitter smells. So so manly. It's interesting I'd the most positive thing I could say about it, but not how I want to smell.

Why is this so spicy and peppery on me. I want to love this so much. The notes seem so delicious and the bottle makes the perfume look like it would be decadent. It's just peppery, spiciness on me. Eau des Merveilles is a bit better than this.

im having some trouble with this line it seems - guys help me out - when do these merveilles scents do thir magic?
what season? what temp?

and what is so peppery salty and rich... ambergris??
someone said patchouly was up front in the opening but its not like any patch ive ever come across.

tell me what i need to know :-0

skin test, sunny witer day

this is strong for me, really peppery salty and rich, i definately think you should have tested some from this line to see the base works for you.

i will retest but i think i personally cannot get past the opening, i had to wash this off.

i dont get the same scent others report, nothing like the notes though the resins throw me a bit, im not used to them.
its quite a thick feeling scent.

hmmm not sure its for me

lasts well and projects well

I enjoy every Drops from this fragrance Let's start with Lemon tea mixed with red sugar and a orange blossom in the woods with green flowers. is a good fragrance very modern Beautiful same time have a good Signature love it

Anyone who lives in a major city has likely had the experience of boarding an empty subway car only to have to immediately switch cars due to a putrid, deathly odor thats source isn’t even readily apparent. You then ride the next car down, even though it is overcrowded, and catch glimpses through the window of people going through the same thing you did at the earlier stop. They ultimately end up riding with you, and exchange knowing smiles that you’ve shared a truly awful experience together.

Want to be the cause of such an affair?

In all seriousness, I get that this is a polarizing one and other people have a very positive take. It’s entirely possible something crawled inside my bottle and died. While I do quite honestly admire the complexity of Elixir des Merveilles, my personal take away is that nobody should be blind buying this based on the enticing note list, beautiful presentation and positive reviews. Learn from my disgust, and make a point to try a sample. You might love it, and I hope you do... but just not near me.

That being said, L’Artisan Parfumeur’s Mandarina Corsica is very close to this, but doesn’t have that whole decomposing mystery animal smell going on. I like it a lot actually, and it is exactly what I originally had hoped this would be.

I much prefer the original to this one as Elxir is a little too overpowering and heavy. The beauty of Eau Des Merveilles (its complexity within its simplicity) has been removed and it now feels like Elixir is overcompensating. The ambergris note in the orginal that is softer now arrives loud and proud in the Elixir, making the fragrance a little masculine. The citrus also overshadows a few of the other notes here such as the caramel (a note I am even surprise actually exists in this fragrance). The drydown is better than the harsh opening, at least in the dry down it relaxes more and leans more towards to the original

This is an AWESOME MASCULINE scent!!! I tried it for a few days, the Fragrantica Friend I traded with to get it implored me to wait until the colder fall / winter months before I gave up on it, but, I just think it's too masculine on me. If I smelled this on a man's skin, watch out, now! ;) Change this to a men's scent and call it a day, Hermes? It is a very high quality, well-blended and long-lasting fragrance. Worth the $$$ in my opinion as a little bit goes a long way.

Hey all you cool cats and kittens! Do you find yourself wanting to smell like a plastic doll head freshly shipped from China? Then Hermes Elixir Des Mervilles EDP is the perfume for you! It's not like the 90's Strawberry Shortcake dolls. While also gross, what I mean is PLASTIC HAIR AND DOLL HEAD. Like a cheap Halloween wig. Very ugly smell on my skin.

Not a fan of the opening because of strong patchouli , love the middle and dry down. Very long lasting.

LOVE!!! Burnt orange peel, woods, smoke... sexy and very original. People can smell it on me and recognize the fragrance, so it is also distinctive, not like anything else I own. I used up more than half of my 50ml bottle and I think I will keep repurchasing, which is rare for me.

Bold and cosy, this perfume has been my signature scent for the cold weather for many years now. I have to admit that it's strong enough for men to wear it.

This is a very elegant and bold perfume for ballsy women (and men, if the above mentioned is true). A luxurious scent that transports you through time to Ancient China.

Let your senses guide you through a forest of orange trees on a stary, festive, warm night. Let yourself be enchanted by the incense surrounding you. Let yourself be invited to caramel spicy treats and champagne while being exposed to rich amber and vanilla.

This is a vavavoom scent. An extraordinary creating and a must!

My beloved darling, its time for you to come back home now, winter is approaching us here in the Southern hemisphere and I'm not bracing it without my 'cashmere blanket", that is you...LOL! My ultimate invisible luxury for the colder months that leaves many bewitched in its wake, men and women alike...mmnnnnn. I simply adore this since our chance meeting many moons ago, which still feels like yesterday when the Hermès family welcomed me with open arms into their world of celestial extravagance, steeped in a rich heritage, inspired to afford us only the outmost best n luxury! Some choose this brand, while for others, as lucky as myself, they choose you...and the result, of course, you'll be the envy of many. :)

This is the perfume I have been wearing for the past 4 years, repurchased it for several times now. It is my ALL TIME favourite perfume!

I absolutely LOVE this orange, amber, woody perfume, it is the perfect combination, not too sweet or woody, not too feminine or masculine, it's perfectly balanced. I ADORE it.

I also own Eau and L'ambre which i also love, but Elixir is the best for me.

Great longevity and sillage, it lasts around 8-12 hours on my skin.

Overall note 10/10.

Instagram: @My_Insta_Fragrances

I absolutely adore the Elixir des Merveilles. I mostly smell orange, amber and cedar. Sweet, woody, balsamic fragrance. The performance is great (sometimes I can smell the scent on my clothes the next day).

I prefer the Elixir over the Eau des Merveilles version, but if someone likes more fresh woody scents, the EdM could be a better option. Both of them are unisex, but I feel like Elixir leans more feminine whereas the EdM would be more masculine.

Very very unique, gorgeous fragrance.

I sampled this yesterday and a lady was walking behind me n said to her husband, "I smell Christmas candles!" And I knew it was me! That's what I aim fir-spice, spice, more spice! The only unfortunate factor is that this does seem to dry down masculine, like maybe a cologne. I'm not good at describing scents, sorry guys, lol.

This is what Christmas smells like! It's absolute perfection, seriously you have to smell this at least once in your lifetime. Elixir is definitely unisex leaning towards more feminine side but I can easily see a man wearing it. It's not super long lasting but does leave a subtle trail of gorgeous orange, balsamic vanilla with a subtle notes of cedar . Imagine you are in a beautiful almost frozen forest and miraculously you encounter a tree with beautiful oranges... there is a reason why this perfume is called elixir de merveilles, it's all about miracles. It's a perfume of good luck I heard ;)

Elixir de Merveilles is a charming and cozy fragrance by Jean Claude Ellena. I get the resins, orange, and amber top, but I also get quite a lot of pepper, which is not listed. The later drydown is basically a clean orange. Refined and upperclass. Unisex leaning feminine. Wear for any season, any occasion.

I bought a sample of this perfume a few months back during the summer months and it was too intense. I had to wash it off. Fast forward to today, a rainy fall day in the 50s F and I'm in love. It is a perfect scent for the fall weather. So comforting and warm. The citrus is addictive. I'm a huge fan of citrus scents for some reason and spicy notes and musk. So this hits its right out of the park for me. I also have Eau Des Merveilles another equally beautiful fragrance that I'm bringing back into my rotation.

Fantastic! Very realistic and beautiful sweet orange opening, Hermes signature. Dry down Very balsamic and warm.

Cozy scent despite the citrus, unisex to me, not sure I'd reach out for it often enough to consider a full bottle, might need to get it for my partner and borrow it for the occasional enjoyment :)

This is just gorgeous. Not similar any other scent, unique, seductive.

This is beautiful! For me, the first spray is pretty sharp with the orange peel making it’s grand appearance, lol. But that immediately settles and the beauty reveals itself. I smell this sweet, but no overly so, smoky, cinnamon spicy fragrance with a touch of citrus. It’s a well blended, unique, sophisticated fragrance that I’d consider unisex. I can see this being just as beautiful on a man. It literally envelops me while wearing it and I love it. I think it is day or night time appropriate, & find it long lasting with moderate sillage. I was sampling this fragrance, but this is definitely full bottle worthy, and I have to pick up one ASAP, lol.

a beautiful encapturing scent. perfect for autumn and winter. 1 spray is perfect. too much and it smells like a mans fragrance. beautiful patchouli comming through all the warm notes.

however, it can quickly smell stale. if that makes sense. like clothes sprayed from 2 days ago.

I love L'ambre. To me the Elixer is similar, its smokier, it is sweet but less sweet than L'ambre. Instead of the cozy vanilla and amber this one is a burnt sugar and citrus balsam combo. It has the depth that L'ambre lacks, but I think they're good layered. Both Elixer and L'ambre are heavier than Eau des Merveilles in my opinion.

This is an interesting and understandably polarizing fragrance. I was drawn to its unusual combination of resins (peru and siam), woods (oak and cedar), and the caramel-orange accord. The result is definitely unique. In all honesty, the first spray left me confused and a bit disappointed: it smelled strangely sweet and medicinal and synthetically citrusy, like something I'd smelled at the dentist's office. As it dried and warmed on my skin, it turned into something completely different: the woods come through, carried by the resins. There's a saltiness there too, and the trace of a vanillia-tonka note at the bottom. It all comes together astonishingly well. I agree with the reviewer that praised the use of the word "Elixir" in place of "Parfum" (as in, Hermès could have called this "sequel" to Eau des Merveilles simply "Parfum des Merveilles" or something of the like). There's something in the the syrupy medicinal sweetness of the caramel and resins that evokes an old-time tonic or miracle elixir. The woods smooth it out, the orange elevates it, and the amber ties it all together. This does not read as a particularly feminine fragrance to me, and wouldn't work very well on anybody under the age of around 27. As for season, that's kind of hard to tell; it seems like one of those scents that transforms under different temperatures and humidities but is well-suited to all of them. Better in the evening than during the day. Another unique creation by the peerless Jean-Claude Ellena.

شاهکار! یه عطر خاص زنونه با بوی رزینی و ته بوی دودی پچولی. همچین شاهکاری رو فقط هرمس میتونه خلق کنه.

Masterpiece! Very special feminine fragrance with a resin smell and a subtle smoky-patchouli scent. Such a masterpiece can only be created by Hermes.

Burnt sugar with orange. It is nice, really nice. But I wouldn't wear it on my skin. It just doesn't have that fresh note I'm looking for in perfumes, it's rather intoxicating. I'd rather go with Hugo Boss Orange. Anyway, I see it suitable for a cold winter day. And it has great longevity!

A balsamic amber scent with beautiful highlights of sweet and bitter notes. In the opening I get lots of orange peel (definitely peel and not juice) and a kind of woody, coniferous feel. The caramel comes in slowly, it's deep and creamy, but it never goes fully gourmand, the scent is always more resinous than anything else. I think patchouli is very important in this composition, it doesn't dominate the scent but it adds a sparkle, an edge that is much needed to lift the fragrance. I also get a salty note that makes it even more interesting.
Overall, Elixir de Merveilles smells like a sexy, glamouros beach holiday fragrance to me. It would complete the look of having tanned skin, wearing a long simple dress in black or white, a little gold jewelery and understated make-up. But of course it would also work for many other settings and outfits. It's just so warm and sensual.

The performance is great, too: When I sprayed it on in the afternoon I could easily smell it in the next morning, even after a shower including Lush body conditioner there was still a hint of Elixir left on my skin. But it's not heavy or dense, there is an elegant transparency to it that makes it very Hermès.
This is actually the first fragrance from the Merveilles line I have really tried on my skin, and while it makes me curious for the others, it's also so perfect that I suspect that they can't possibly be as good as this one.

Man.... Really wish this smelled better on me. It ended up smelling more fresh than I normally like. I got no sweetness, warmth or depth on me. Just a nose biting harshness. Bummer... And it just won't let go of my skin either. I'll hold onto my sample and try again later...

The amber is the first note i get here. A very sweet, balsamic scent. Amber, vanilla and balsam is what i get first. Once dried down a bit, the patchouli is more noticeable. Not my type of scent but would be great for night time or cold weather.

This is a fantastic year round scent. Wearing it today in 90+ degree heat it’s a candied orange and salty caramel treat. In winter, I swear I get a pine note in there. It’s very strong at first spray so you have to let it settle for a few minutes before every note falls into place, but when it does, it’s so good!

First, let me say that my skin doesn't seem like it gets along with many scents. It's probably my health. That said' I wanted to love this. The notes were everything I love. Sadly, this smelled like smoked cigarettes on me/what people's clothes smell like when they smoke. Now, it lasts and lasts and after 10 hours it had actually morphed into more pleasant scent, it had lost the cigarette smell and just had a lingering smokey/woody scent. I actually liked it. It's just a long time to wait to like a perfume. But, in my case it's not the perfume's fault. I only reviewed this so maybe someone who is finding the same thing with their skin and scents will realize that they may need to get their health checked. I am going to try this just on clothing since in the air it smells so nice.

I’m smelling this one right now and as a man, I would wear this. I’m captivated !

I wish, I wish, I wish, I wish, I wish that I could smell what everyone else is smelling or just about any of the notes listed above.

The combination of these notes should be something I enjoy, but what blooms on me is the smell of a pharmacy, and a lot of salt. It smells like sterile medicine boxes, and the warm salty water we were forced to gargle when we had sore throats as kids.

The scent, tragically, smells like being sick and stuck in bed, and I wish that I knew what notes produced that on me because I would like them far from me. The notes listed here, sound like a dream and look like a dream. But on me, this combination, went downhill almost immediately, and was one of the few perfumes in my whole life that I had to scrub off.

Orange and caramel gourmand. It's nice but it's too sweet for me on the opening and I do enjoy some gourmands. I can't say it develops much on me. Maybe the Peru balsam comes out a bit more and the sweetness eases off a bit. I think it's fair to say that you do need to like the Peru balsam note although perhaps my chemistry is amping it up.
I get good longevity and moderate sillage. Sorry but just a like at most.

This will be a long review so here's the takeaway: I love this scent and it'll always be in my collection, but it is one of those idiosyncratic, peculiar scents that will change from paper to skin.

I've had this perfume for a year now, and I've gone on quite the journey with my opinion of it. I first smelled this scent on a blotter at Nordstroms and the initial blast of notes were very gourmand, a dark and almost sugary orange with a little bitter rind. The bitterness is enhanced I think by the resins, and amber notes and the sugary part kind of dissipates smoothly away to a very resiny, strong cedar, and citrus with a strong patchouli background. I loved it, bought a bottle, and later trying it on my skin, I hated it. On my skin I get the resins and patchouli immediately and it is bitter and a bit sour too. Then the orange rind, but it takes a good 10 minutes for the orange to smooth out into a very citrusy with the tiniest bit of caramel note but still with an intense wood/resin/bitter patchouli.

The intensely bitter and sour opening notes really bothered me. I tried for 6 months to like it and ended up returning it to Nordstroms (which, FYI, Nordstrom seems to be the only department store that will 100% refund you for an opened bottle of perfume).

I couldn't stop thinking about this perfume and how some days I liked it, and other days I hated it. I ended up later sniffing it *again* at Nordstrom on paper so re-purchased a travel size of it. This time it was summer, and I don't know if the heat just opens up all the gourmand notes much more clearly, but every time I wore it I would receive compliments, and I also now love it. This was last summer and now after rotating this perfume around on different times /days I really love it and couldn't do without it.

I'm not sure why I had this experience; if it's my skin chemistry or if the gourmand notes aren't as strong unless it's warmer weather despite the fact that these type of notes usually signify a cooler weather kind of perfume. In any case, as Hermes is a luxury brand and carries a high price tag, I strongly recommend trying this scent on your skin before purchasing.

Longevity and sillage are medium to strong.

Sweet orange zest, glowing amber and precious woods. A scent that's like a serene walk in a forest after the rain. Absolutely stylish, definitely unisex and very long lasting.

Opens with a sharp orange note, and then becomes a sweet resinous orange, with a subtle balsamic note.

Very well blended, and great performance. A great scent for the office during colder days.
Unisex (if not slightly leaning feminine), but a confident man can easily pull this one off. (Indeed, I wore it today)

A great blend. That said, it misses the "wow' factor to enter the masterpiece league. Still a love for me!

Fall/Winter days, women 20+, men 30+

First of all, I must say, I am lucky to have that kind of skin chemistry that is flattering to most perfumes (or vice versa maybe). Secondly, I am a big fan of Jean-Claude Ellena creations, so they must be working for me really well. So when I am reading negative reviews, I often think - wow do they really mean THIS particular scent?

I bought this after finishing 3 or 4 bottles (never less than 100ml each!) of Eau de Merveilles and one faux pas bottle Eau Clair de Merveilles (gave it away immediately) and Elixir works on me as well as Eau de Merveilles does, so that people approach me asking what kind of perfume I am wearing.

It’s a bright sparkling scent, balmy resinous woods with an amber and orange twist, slightly reminding me of one of my favorite sodas from my Soviet childhood - Baikal, made with herbal extracts and essential oils (I know, this should sound odd to every non-Russian, but trust me, it’s really good!). I often wear it when unsure what to wear and it never disappoints neither me nor people around me.

I blind bought this about a year ago after reading so many positive reviews. I figured the hype must auger a great creation. I mean what could go wrong...Caleche, Twilly, 24 Faubourg...a credible dynasty.

Generic, boring and annoying. I think the reviewer below me nailed it - a drug store aftershave.

Bah! I had such hopes for this one after hearing many people say it would be suitable as a Fendi Theorema substitute.

I have gone back to test this perfume out time and time again over the past year but always with the same results; cheap mens aftershave.

It's very strange, I get a wonderful Theorema vibe that seems to randomly emanate out from the spot sprayed, but whenever I get closer with my nose to find that scent I'm just hit with a bog standard drugstore men's cologne.

For 95% of the time, it's a men's aftershave. For the 5% that fleetingly comes and goes, it's a lovely magical little fragrance. In the 5% I get a delicious, warm, creamy vanilla burnt caramel with orange peels and ginger. If 100% of this juice was like this I'd snap it up in no time. But I'm so sad that for some strange reason, to my nose, I get the total opposite, a cold synthetic cheap basic men's aftershave.

Does anybody else get this at all?
Maybe my nose is broken.

Note: I know it's got nothing to do with my skin chemistry because I get the exact same results whether it's on paper, clothes or hair. Very curious to know if others get the same?

When Luca Turin damned Elixir des Merveilles with faint praise (3 stars and a revue en bref: "bon chic, bon genre,") I assumed it would fade into oblivion once the industry moved on to the next trend.

Revisiting this Jean Claude Ellena creation a decade on, I can't help but think that Turin was being uncharitable in his assessment. This is a remarkably good and unusual fragrance!

First, it must be said that Ellena has toiled for years in this territory--working with weightless, novel citruses supported by atmospheric synthetic bases (Terre d'Hermes, Eau D'Orange Vert, Eau de Pamplemousse Rose, Hermes Garden series, and even the old In Love Again and Sisley Eau de Campagne). So if there was a "bon chic" effect at the time Ellena released Elixir des Merveilles, he certainly earned it!

But Elixir des Merveilles is much, much more than a trendy throwaway. It accomplishes some things that are notable in the history of perfumery:

1) The sticky orange note is one that Ellena has mastered, but it is in other fragrances all too fleeting. Here, he manages to sustain it from beginning to end. When was the last time you smelled an orange (or any citrus) for 8 hours? More to the point, when was the last time you *wanted* to?

2) The transition into the base is, well, a "wonder." The orange note remains, but is slowly enveloped in a kind of sensual musk that smells like the naked body of a beautiful woman. This is a scent for afternoon love-making if ever there was one! Leave the curtains open, refrain from alcohol or any substance that will dull your senses, and wallow wakefully in her beauty.

3) The overall density of the composition is unusual in that it is simultaneously "thick" and "weightless." There is nothing cloying or suffocating about Elixir des Merveilles, but it manages to envelop the wearer in a plush cloud for hours upon hours. I kept expecting it to turn sickly sweet and ambaric, but it remained perfectly balanced from start to finish. Of course, this is Ellena's signature, but it is impressively done here, even by his lofty standards.

4) Finally, it is just "pretty." I mean that as a high compliment. Not all modern fragrances can claim this.

Overall rating: * * * * * (masterpiece)

Highly recommended, especially for men.

Elixir is like its bottle - warm, sparkling and cheerful, both energetic and comforting. It starts really sharp, this is the moment when I get lots of patchouli and raw resins. Don't get discouraged, with time all notes seem to work together better and after 1-2h it's at its sweet, balsamic best.
Easily lasts all day.

The air is hot and dry and the night is dark. The musky aroma of ambergris is like a salty breeze from the warm sea washing over the shore near a smoking fire pit full of aromatic pine and creamy sandalwood. A beautiful woman dripping in exotic silks has her face covered and her fingers, dripping in gold with precious gems are slowly stirring and roasting orange peels with tonka beans while pouring caramel like liquid amber over this delicious concoction. Balsamic, heady, sweet and smoky. A magic golden elixir recipe that’s ancient and remains a secret passed on from generations, it hugs you with it’s warmth and richness of the flavors and aromas. A potion which invites you on exotic sensory journey into the tale of 1001 nights.

Best scented regards,

@olyabar

Started out very sultry & warm. Thru the day it turned very powdery and stale

APPLES AND BISCUITS BY PAUL CEZANNE
+++++++++++

Orange + cedar = chewable baby aspirin?

What on earth am I smelling? Got this beautiful bottle in a swap, but I'm not sure if it just disagrees with my skin, or if I'm not smelling all of the notes. I don't really get any patch, or vanilla. It's not an unpleasant smell, I like it. But I'll be testing this one out on my husband to see if his body does something different.

Upon opening, I detect orange, caramel, balsam, and resin mostly. Somewhat heavy yet ethereal touch. I am not surprised that M. Jean Claude Ellena authored this. It is certainly an interesting scent because caramel note is strong when my nose is close to my wrist. However I get the waft of scent, primarily of balsa, resin and orange. Several hours later it is still there without much change. Long lasting, comforting and unisex in my opinion.

Charisma in a bottle. Resin/amber is very detectable, it's woodsiness creates an aura of confidence and mystery.A very unisex or even masculine scent though.

This wasn't love at the first spray. I didn't like it at all untill a few hours passed. The beautiful, deeper notes showed up much later!

I just got this, and I vacillate between love, like and not for me. I do not smell any orange or spiced orange (and I was really hoping too). I smell some patchouli (but it is not heavy) and lots of woods (oak or cedar).
I keep reading people talking about the vanilla...vanilla is my #1 fav scent, and I really do not detect much at all. If it is there, it is really dominated with balsamic woods.

The first spray is strong and crude...it takes on a very Paloma Picasso/Magie Noire beginning, but the balsamic woods really soften out.

I honestly think this should be sold and marketed as a Men's fragrance, that is good for women too...or at least unisex.

This smells much more "masculine" than "feminine".

LONG lasting and heavy sillage. 1-2 sprays should be enough for almost anyone. Over spraying this could be catastrophic, LOL.
But, impressive for a somewhat modern fragrance to last so long, and what a value...a little for sure goes a long way!!!

Short review: my god, I love this. It's resinous and orangey - no need to break down any further.

It's just good.

Unisex, in my opinion.

This fragrance is between like and dislike for me. It opened very sharp and pungent, and I really disliked it. 4 hours later, I get sweet resinous, balsamic scent that I like. But when I get a closer sniff at my arm, I can still smell the pungent note, that I didn't like at the beginning. It reminds me of Burberry, that I had to give away because of this note. I believe it must be the spicy cedar that generally doesn't agree with my nose. A NO for me.

Very interesting fragrance. Not loud, but remarkable. A man could wear this without problems. I can easily see this fragrance being someone‘s signature scent. It has a lot of character and is not a crowd pleaser, even though it is not an aggressive perfume (just different) . I can imagine a mystical and opulent personality wearing it ( and almost no one else).
On my skin, i can detect most amber and incense. The other notes are so well blended that i can not pick them apart.
Sillage is soft, but longevity is impressive.
If you want to make an elegant and memorable statement, this is your juice.

This is aptly named and bottled Elixir, it feels like wearing orange and amber at the same time. And even though this one is marketed towards women, this is really unisex, and GUYS CAN WEAR THIS, and it's really really nice scent that intrigues people around you.
Very great longevity, with moderate to heavy sillage. Always get compliments wearing this.

My favorite winter perfume. I bought a back up. It has a more complex blend of citrus and woody notes than is often found in women’s fragrances.

How can it be sweet and dry at the same time?
Expensive and "perfumy," but young, too.
Wild stuff.

Edit
Well... I can't stop wearing this.
So satisfying but mysterious, hard to pinpoint.
Like Peter Gabriel's voice -- how it seems to hit two tones at once.
Or a kitten's paws -- sharp and soft.
It's spicy enough to hold my interest, yet fresh enough to meld with hot weather.
I. Love. This.

More of a vintagey feel amber, especially drydown somehow feels a little dated to me. Opening is lovely amber orange peel, but quickly turns into the drydown which is like an old style Rochas Femme which I am not so keen on.

FABULOUS. A warm, sweet balsam mixed with spices, orange peel and an amber essence with great longevity, I can wear this even in the summer heat and I'm not choking anyone out. In part, this is due to alll of the ingredients smelling very natural. This could only be a Jean Claude Ellena composition.

Beautiful unique master piece, like nothing else I have ever smelt.. Gourmand orange caramel candy , resinous, smoky and very woodsy.. warm, sophisticated, very sensuous and sexy..It could easily be unisex..
The sillage and longevity are both Vgood.. لو ألقيت نظرة سريعة على مكونات العطر سينتابك حتما شعور غريب بالفضول حوله.. كيف يبدو؟ كيف تجتمع مكونات من العيار الثقيل في عطر واحد.. مصنف للنساء لكنه لا يحتوي اي نوتات زهرية!
لطالما اعتقدت أن جان كلود ايلينا ملك الحمضيات الذي يتقن صناعتها و اظهارها بطريقة مختلفة في كل مرة يطلق فيها عطرا جديدا لكنني اشهد له بالتفوق حتى على نفسه.. مقدمة العطر برتقالية خضراء حادة غريبة مبهمة كرائحة زيت قشر البرتقال مخلوطة برائحة عشبية ترابية نفاذة.. ربما كانت المقدمة اضعف مراحل العطر لكنها لن تدوم لأكثر من دقائق.. تظهر بعدها رائحة عنبرية مسكية رائعة تمتزج مع الراتنجيات و التونكا فتعطي رائحة لذيذة جورماندية لحلوى البرتقال بالكراميل الدسمة وكأنها تُطبخ في قدر كبيرة فوق الحطب المشتعل.. في القاعدة يتحول العطر الى خشبي سبايسي و تظهر الى جانب البرتقال لمحات باودرية من الصندل و البخور و الفانيلا.. العطر متفرد جدا.. متميز لا يشبه عطرا اخر .. تدرجاته رائعة.. أداؤه ممتاز بحيث يلتقطه انفي بوضوح حتى في اليوم التالي.. مثير جدا ومن الظلم اعتباره عطرا انثويا فهو يونيسكس تماما.. و اعتقد انه يبدو اروع كلما اشتدت برودة الجو.. امتلك زجاجة منه لكني سأسعى حتما لاقتناص واحدة أخرى بحجم اكبر فهو عطر لا ارغب أن ينضب من خزانتي ابدا

This is a glorious delight of a fragrance...in fact, I love the entire Merveilles line---and while they are all similar and share family traits, they are all quite different enough from each other to justify owning every one.

What makes Elixir special? The peru balsam mixed with caramel, resins and incense. A spicy citrus treat, yet almost a gourmand as it warms on your skin. Rich tonka, vanilla, patchouli and amber ground it--but never in a heavy way. This one is so beautiful I almost can't describe it. I get the occasional whiff of expensive soap, especially when I spray the back of my neck. Suitable for men or women, this one is just divine. It lasts all day on my skin, as well. A+

This one was a pass for me. I sampled it yesterday at Saks and upon first spray, it smelled very sharp and...generic. The orange smelled so artificial and overpowering, it reminded me of orange-flavored cough syrup. I could not detect any other notes, other than the strange mix of patchouli and incense that created a stale kind of smell, like it was an old bottle of perfume that had been sitting in the sun. Very harsh and unappealing. I did sample a lot of fragrances yesterday, so maybe my olfactory system was worn out by the time I got to this one, but it was disappointing and not at all what I expected. I expected to really love this, especially after hearing the "chocolate-covered orange" comparison. Personally, I get a better orange experience from Clinique's Happy. It is amazing how we all differ in what appeals to our senses!

This is so lovely, so different, a lot of resin, a magic. One of my favorite. Very unique!

I had a sample of Elixir a few years ago and didn’t like it- I enjoyed the scent, but thought it was too masculine. Fast forward to a few days ago when I smelled this on a friend and was struck by how unique and bold Elixir came across. I had to have it! It is a gender bender, absolutely no doubt, but I do see the femme in this now. This is for the rebel, the eccentric, the sharp witted woman who boldly owns herself with no apologies. As for the scene this scent evokes, it took me a while to get the beach vibe from this line. I own the Eau and Ambre and just now am beginning to understand this particular shore, and for the contrast I am beginning to prefer this atmospheric rendition. Forget the fruity drinks and sunscreen, heck, forget the sun. This is a northern, rough shore. Craggy rocks, mist and wind, with a forest of tall pines buffering the cool spray. This beach is not for spring break, it is a wild, untamed beauty.

Edit (June 12): I have to add that in humid heat this becomes a chocolate salted caramel that is just scrumptious!

A couple of years ago I smelled this on a woman in a waiting room of a dentist. I asked her what she was wearing and she said it was Hermes. The same day I went to Sephora to locate the perfume and tried identifying it from memory. It was this. I always have a bottle in my bathroom. I love it. I do wear it to work , even though not as much as before as I became more involved with different scents.
My coworkers who come after me always know if I am in the office because the elevator and the way to the door smells like me! The scent is complex and longetivity is impressive. This perfume makes me feel very feminine and mature, which I need sometimes. It gives me boost of confidence as well.
I think you can wear it to a special occasion as well not sure if it belongs only to one season since we all have A//C in buildings, definitely not appropriate for a beach.

This perfume smells amazing I love it! Also on me the lasting power was crazy long, it lasted till the next morning! For me I think the sillage is moderate to above average depending on how much I use. This also was a blind buy because I love L'ambre so I figured since I loved that I would like elixir. Well turns out I love it on me I get a lot of the incense, amber, sandalwood, Tonka, and the resins. I cannot smell the orange while my boyfriend said he could smell it no problem.

To me the vanilla, sugar, and caramel rounds out the wood and resins edges making this just so delicious. For me this was a safe blind buy because I know I love balsamic scents and since I have l'ambre I thought it would work out. If you're not into these notes normally or own another fragrance from the mervilles line I would get a sample, For me I adore this and a side note when I want a touch of floral with this I layer EdM with Alien. I kid you not they smell so good together. Love!

I can’t believe this came out in 2006 and I’ve ignored it for 12 years. This is why you should never assume, I just tried this and it’s perfect, immediately bought it. Sweet, unisex perfect for cold weather

I love the cheerful orange orblike illusion of the bottle, for an extremely visual and tactile person like myself, the glowing deep orange bottle itself is a huge draw, it beckons you to grab and touch it. The scent itself is quite unique, you are expecting a burst of juicy oranges but instead you get, just a hint of orange that never gets juicy or acid but instead rounds out a salty, very peppery, warm resinously slightly woody amberish sweetish not gourmand light bodied syrup.
Lovely mmmm! It’s a little cuddlely, edgy, sophisticated at the same time, quite unisex. The sillage is closer to the skin and it’s a bit linear. Much prefer this to the original eau de merveille as that one is too sharp with the citrus.

My signature. Absolutely Adore!

Sweet orange and salty amber on a resinous woody base. The scent is very unique and kinda hard to imagine until you try this one. I loved it at first, but there are two cons. Firstly, it's pretty linear during its relatively short lifespan and that hypersweet orange quickly becomes tiresome. As you might have guessed, the second drawback is the performance, which is not as good as you'd expect. About 4 hours of longevity (if you're lucky) and there's no projection to speak of after the first hour.

My initial love for it turned into like. It's special and very nice, but I don't really need it in my collection

Perfectly sweet and a little spicy, but I can't detect any cedar or patchouli in this. Shame, because those notes might make the scent last longer. As lovely as it is, it lasts maybe 4 hours on my skin, even with hydrated skin. Not fully bottle worthy, as beautiful as it is. Too bad.

This is what I call interesting. Beautiful beautiful orange scent with a really good depth.

Horrific on me. Smells dirty on me, like a zoo animal enclosure. What note is doing this?! If I only knew, I could avoid it forever...

Not what I expected at ALL!

So woody & sharp!

I went in thinking it'd smell citrus-y & fresh, something like Clinique Happy but no! It's nothing like Clinique Happy.

Just a warning for those who have the same expectations.

I blind bought this based off the reviews and notes listed. It was beautiful to unwrap—the box was inside a silver shipping envelope, and when you opened the initial box there sprang open another, cushioned box, in which was a box wrapped in tissue paper with a delightful little ribbon tied in a bow. Of course, that was the actual perfume box and it felt just like opening a present to myself. I’d buy it again, just for that.

But on to the scent, shall we? The top notes go by quickly. Initially there is a rush of caramel orange patch, which settles down quickly to reveal a spicy, clean amber with hints of the caramel orange patch caught as I move about. There is something slightly powdery about it on my skin, which isn’t my favorite element, but that seems to settle down quickly as well. From there it wears like a deep, clean (but thick), spicy orange, emphasis on the spice. I can see how some see it as a slightly masculine scent and it’s true—I think it would be to die for on a man. Sex appeal doesn’t discriminate.

All in all it’s a beautiful scent. I like a lot but don’t love—yet. My husband loves it though, and he never comments on my perfume but commented twice on this, so I may have found a winner.

A certain... natural feminine musk, shall we say.

At least that's what I thought on my first wearing. Ah, what a young nose. It didn't put me off too much, as I'm into that kinda stuff. But that was about two years ago, so it must have left an impression. Maybe I wasn't willing to walk around smelling like I'd just enjoyed a marathon lovemaking session. Love that smell, but not as a lingering, all-day presence.

Transitioning from retail work to an office environment has been fun times for my fragrance wardrobe. It's given me the confidence to break out my more challenging scents, as in retail the wrong note could entirely put off a customer and ruin your whole day. In an office, no one cares unless it's loud and in your face.

So with high hopes, and some leftover apprehension, today I wore Hermes Elixir des Merveilles. It's a scent of surprising contradictions. Breezy, sticky. Sweet, salty. Soapy, dirty. Feels more like an aura than an afterglow. Comforting in a way I didn't expect, based on previous wearings.

Recently I've noticed that amber takes on this dusty playdough vibe when I smell it. I get that here, combined with a sticky, caramel orange. Sounds like it would be heavy, but it's light enough. Works for me. I dig it.

I loved the opening notes; a warm embrace at Christmas-time. The orange combined with the amber, caramel and tonka reminded me of a ceremony in England when I was a child 'Christingle' where we placed a candle inside an orange, adorned it with sweets and dried fruits. Almost sparkling.

I was absolutely loving this fragrance in the cold atmosphere; drinking coffee and keeping warm in my bright red winter coat - this fragrance feels luxurious and comforting.

Elixir des Merveilles lasts many hours; unfortunately the drydown on my skin was a little milky - perhaps from the vanilla, it must be my chemistry? I did not like it at that stage at all.

I recommend getting a sample for a test before buying. Visually the bottle is beautiful; like a sparkling Christmas bauble hanging on the tree.

I received a tester of this fragrance. I was very on the fence about trying it out due to the orange being voted as the most dominant note. I absolutely dislike anything citrussy or orangy, however the orange in this is not at all citrussy but instead a very gourmand candied orange.

The fragrance opens with patchouli, which seems to fade quiet quickly into a very soft background note. Than the sweet candied orange kicks in with amber, resin and caramel to give it a warm, very comforting and alluring feel to it. It is a very enchanting scent and I associate it with winter and christmas holidays. It is definitely fitting for a strong woman with character. The perfume is loud and you will be noticed. As many have mentioned this perfume to be unisex, I do not think this will be well suited at all for men. On me at least it smells very sweet and gourmand, which may be a bit too feminine on men. However, I guess every body chemistry reacts differently of course. Overal a beautiful blend by Hermes and an incredibly pleasant surprise for me !

This fragrance is strong and as a sparkling edge to it. A fragrance for a confident woman. Sometimes I like it and other times I find it overwhelming. It effects my mood in that it makes me rather serious. It is a very long lasting fragrance and a winter fragrance.. I like to wear it when I need that confident and serious edge.

Sadly, this perfume doesn't agree with my skin at all. What I smell is only powdery salt and amber, maybe some patchouly. It's so salty, it feels like I am in a salt mine or something like that. Or in the middle of the ocean. I'm sure it depends on my skin, since the same happens to me with marine perfumes.
Strong sillage and long lasting.

A masterpiece in every aspect.

Autumn in a bottle.

Autumn days, nights.
Winter days, nights.

Assortment of forest wood scents bring to mind cutting of timber, holiday trees, stacks of firewood.

Orange, caramel, vanilla sugar giving sweetness.

I think it easily can be worn by men too. Would be a nice layering item, to mix in with other scents. I've tried adding in Black Suede (Avon) and Cuba Gold (Cuba Paris).

Again, both of those combinations are quite complementary on myself, a woman. I already know that all scents don't work for all people, but I am completely satisfied with the scent of Elixir des Merveilles. And I love the ability to add it to women's and men's fragrances for a new twist.

I just received Elixir des Merveilles today again!! The first time I bought this, I didn't think too much of it. It just did not smell right on me, so I gave it to my mom. I am so jealous, because it smells so heavenly on her.
A year later, I decided to give it another try....I am so glad I did!! I am just in love with this. I don't know what happened, but now it smells so amazing on me and I am already having compliments on it!
I just love the ambery orange take on this. You can also smell the buttery caramel topping it off. You can also detect the soft woody base to this which makes it not over the top sweet. And later a soft vanilla.I find it to be a good comforting, clean, softly spiced fragrance. Great for fall wear.

Very, very classy and interesting - and to win me over (an amber-ambivalent woman) this must have something pretty special. What bothers me is that it's not *quite* as special as I had anticipated. The orange burst is certainly in there, as are the woods - in fact, whatever the woody elements are, really makes their presence felt - like others here I had an awkward window within the first 2h when this seemed on the brink of getting too masculine even for me - though I usually wear almost exclusively unisex-tending-to-mannish stuff).

This is never less than lovely-smelling, though it's so smoothly blended it's hard for me to pick out the other aromatic elements past amber and orange. Once it calms down and mellows out, the amber base is beautifully moderated, not remotely headachey or too pushy.

There is nothing here to dislike, but somehow it didn't tip me into dizzying desire either. From me it's not so much a marvel; more something to quietly appreciate and savour.

Sillage is big at first, but contracts quite dramatically after a couple of hours. Longevity isn't massive but it does hang on - still detectable on skin 4-6h later.

I wore the original EDM back in 2004-5, as I've now realised, I like scents that I consider "moody" and "dark", but also a little sunny and sweet, so that my mood stays as elevated as possible; anyone who's ever fought the good fight against lifelong massive depression will concur that it's fairly imperative that we give our serotonin/dopamine receptors a boost as much as possible—WITHOUT the use of mind-altering substances, as those inevitably backfire at some point. So, along with surrounding myself with as much pleasantness as possible, I tend to shy away from scents that are too dusty, too...antique?...smelling, although I'd be hard pressed to dump my original Shiseido "Zen", as mossy as it is, and likewise Mitsouko...gotta have that oak moss there when I need it. However, my great dislike of most aquatics, ozonic, "marine", "clean", behind whichever tab these silvery, airy, scents are being filed these days, added to a big NO for generic white floral/white musk/fruity/synthetic vanilla-with-a-dab-of-green, and nearly every chypre out there (aside from Nikki de St. Phalle, which I lived in the late 80s, but can no longer embrace due to scent association. Sad panda.) means I can't get a little lazy about my scent choices, reach for the obvious "pick-me-ups" in the light-blue or yellow, grass-green bottles, with names that aim to force me to cheer the hell up.

Enter Eau des Merveilles, Theorema, CdG 2, etc...spicy, amber-hued, dirty—and occasionally inky (LOVE you, CdG 2)—golden oranges. I gave up on the edt version of EDM, as my only co-worker and I shared an office in 2004, and she bathed in the stuff. So here I am, 13 years later, and I keep seeing EDM popping up as a suggestion of scents I may like. I own a big bottle of CdG 2, and had found an original Theorema, but sold it on due to its low silage and longevity (I'd forgotten about this, and it's such a SHAME, but my marking it off of my list for good will save me a bit of cash and stress in trying to acquire a discontinued scent), and so, I decided to buy a small bottle of this.

The first time I smelled it, what immediately came to mind was opening an old, lacquered Chinese chest of ebony wood, the dusty kimono silks inside carrying the scent of an dried, musty, orange pomander, studded with cloves, a bit of cedar thrown in to protect against hungry moth larvae, and that's what I get, all the way until the end, with Eau des Merveilles Elixir. It IS a. bit "masculine", if your nose smells on those terms—mine does not, and 99% of my collection is "unisex", leaning to the male side with a lot of woods, smoke, incense, pine, bergamot, spices and resins. Yes, I wear a lot of Lutens, and own 7 full bottles, but sadly, none of them lasts long on my scent-eating skin. That's why I was so looking forward to loving Elixir, but...it depresses the heck out of me! So, unfortunately, as much as I abhor selling via eBay, I refuse to hang onto any scents I don't use...what's the point?...and this will be listed. UNLESS one of you wants to swap, just let me know. I'm now thoroughly convinced that I have one of the worst body chemistries for wearing ANY scents that lean toward the medicinal and also include amber. I've created my own comfort scent for calming my mind at home, using mostly essential oils in a diffuser: benzoin, cinnamon, a drop of bay & cedar, and lots of sandalwood, a little vanilla if I can find a good synthetic mock up of the true aroma. I've gotten close to locating a Lutens that mimics this combo, and L'air du Desert nearly nails it, but doesn't stick around very long on my skin. If you've made it this far in reading my short story here, bless you, and can you tell me something? Do YOU smell a distinct "skank" alà castroneum or possibly civet in this, or am I misreading patchouli?

This opens with a zesty orange but has undertones of chocolatey woodsy ozonic notes. I like most of the notes but the chocolate -- it is the one note that makes me feel strange about smelling it. I just picture someone dirty, sloppily gorging themselves with bars of chocolate, and leaving behind a gooey mess of melted chocolate smeared all over themselves. But after 2 hours, I barely detect orange and chocolate and really smell mostly ozonic notes with hints of something warm (perhaps the chocolate just muted). After the first 30 minutes, I didn't think I'd like it, but after a couple hours, it grows on me and i can't stop smelling how wonderfully intoxicating it is!

Sillage is medium / longevity 6+ hours

7.5/10

This gem is truly unisex. On a man, the candied orange and woods really mesh well and just works beautifully. I wouldn't necessarily limit this to colder months as the citruses sparkle bright! When your man sweats lightly and the beads of sweat trickles down his neck, I dare you to smell his neck when he's wearing this. It's quite an aggressive aphrodisiac and will induce erotic feelings! (which is basically a more sophisticated way of saying this will make you horny!) On a woman, strangely it picks up on the orange and more so the amber than the woods! It's gorgeous! If you and your man buy a big bottle of this, you will both love it! An absolute must have!

Like other reviewers I find the opening of this to be very masculne. In my case it continues in that vein, which makes it unwearable for me. Unisex yes - masculine no, is my motto. Thank goodness for samples and swapping, as this is just the kind of thing I would assume I'd love and spend £££ for in a blind buy, only to regret it.

And as with most Hermes fragrances, this is very serious, if not sombre, with the high quality ingredients prominently displayed. Very French and very bon chic bon genre. So it probably says more about me than about Hermes that I don't find this style at all engaging. When I want to seem aloof and Parisienne, my vintage Caleche hits the spot - otherwise the house of Hermes is not my speed it would appear.

Quel dommage.

I spent a bit of time with Eau Des Merveilles last week and realised I really love it BUT only on the dry down. I've been researching the whole range and got to try and buy the Elixir and L'Ambre (which is gorgeous too) This has everything I was looking for and MORE. Its absolutely beautiful and addictive. A lot sweater, more citrus and Ambry smooth with added yummy vanilla and at the same time more amped up than Eau, without the harsh opening of Eau which I don't like.I cant get enough of this , it looks like this is definitely signature worthy. My husband compliments me all the time. Wish I could describe it in more detail but you will have try it to see what I mean.

So, if you looking for something sweater than Eau and more delicious (not in a food way) try Elixir.

The flower free fragrance... Juicy oranges, wood, amber and a tiny little bit vanilla (part of a flower,I ignore that). Especially the drydown is very unisex. Wearable in summer, refreshing, or in winter, uplifting. Great sillage and staying power. Every time I use it, I receive positive feedback. The best one by a collegue: "I could walk behind you the whole day just to smell this fantastic scent". She really couldn't because of multiple sclerosis, this was her kind of black humor.

The entire Merveilles line is becoming my favourite fragrances. I love how natural they smell. Outdorsey ,woody and ozionic . The idea behind them is the concept of ambergris , and each flanker does a fine job of it.
The Elixer is somewhat salty,bitter ,sweet ,woody ,balsamic and musky .Smells similar to eau de Merveilles but heavier ,stronger ,more rounded and resinousy , a little less fresh but still fresh and still outdoorsy and natural. Somwhat earthy and bittersweet.
The elixer ,like the other Merveilles are all unisex in my opinion. They all reperesent a natural outdoorsy fresh Ozonic aroma rather than a perfumy smell.
They all don't contend flowers but only ambergris and woods ,herbs with some citrus.
Very natural pleasant and sexy skin scents. They linger forever but won't fill a room.
Perfect daytime fragrance.
Signature worthy !

Elixir des Merveilles is the sourest fragrance I have ever come across, and to my nose, it smells like tamarind and a very sour acidic fruit leather or Lavashak(in Persian). I'm very familiar with these smells because in my country of origin, Iran, these sour snacks are very popular among kids. In the summer, a lot of moms get plums, berries, apricots, etc.; boil and cook them, then Purée and pour into sheets and let them dry. Elixir des Merveilles smells like a fresh mid-drying sour fruit leather. So to my nose, it's a sour gourmand.

I don't hate the smell, but I wouldn't want to smell like fruit leather myself. None of the sweet notes ever come out on my skin or on the paper that I tested it on, and I look at the notes wondering where are the tonka and amber and patchouli and caramel?! I just get the bitter sour orange, along with resins and cedarwood. Once it gets to the base it smells like a very natural smelling salty and sour ambergris.

I don't think this smell does have a gender. It's not feminine, but that doesn't automatically make it masculine either. The sillage is between soft and moderate on my skin. Maybe it's necessary to add that I tested Elixir des Merveilles from an original sample.

Maybe it's a chemistry problem or just a matter of taste, but unfortunately, I am yet to smell something from the house of Hermes that I like. I have a long road ahead of me, and I'm hopeful!

The top notes comes off strong and masculine I love mysterious scents deep and dark. It reminds me of walking through a damp forest with a black scarf smelling fresh oranges and spice sin the air. This scent is unique seems to be unisex n my opinion any sex can pull it off. It's different, bold and unique notes draws me near the cliff of the smell of life.
I layered it with Sublime Vanilla Creed and it took my breathe away in a beautiful whiff

I have said in nearly every review that I'm a floral woman. This has to do mostly with what does well on my skin but also because I have always preferred florals over anything else, even as a child and my early body splash days. My sister preferred Loves Lemon Fresh cologne, and I liked Avon Wild Rose.

I asked my husband for an Hermes perfume for a birthday. He must, after all this time, know I love florals, but he gave me Hermes Elixir des Merveilles. I suspect he just asked for an Hermes perfume and this was handed to him.

It has many things I tend to dislike in perfumes and yet I fell in love with this at spray one, and without a flower anywhere.

For me, it began with spicy pepper, then settles to cedar and oak moss, then come the oranges. It goes through woodsy phases, as described well here, and ends with a beautiful soft scent-oranges mixed with cedar but in a beautiful, undeniably classy way. I may be the only one who doesn't smell caramel, but I get the brown sugar comfort feeling just the same.

Cedar can be difficult. Done right, it brings out whatever scent lays on top and adds to it-in this case oranges. Done wrong, it smells like a guinea pig cage. Needless to say, Hermes Elixir is in the former category.

Hermes manages to mix old school elegance with whimsy in their scarf and leather designs, and they do no less with their fragrances. I wear this one when I want to feel wealthy and regal but still know that my silly personality is coming through. It is great for shopping-and the PTA.

For me, this is a scent that leaves a trail and I wear it when I want to be known. It lasts many hours. It is strong and intense but it doesn't stay that way, it goes through several incarnations before it gets to its soft heart. I do see the unisex qualities and on a male, I think it would also be good but different. But make no mistake-on a woman it is a feminine scent.

This is not really a scent to gift. I think this is for a perfume lover, one who can understand it. It's not for a 16 year old just learning, or for somebody who thinks Flowerbomb is the bomb. I think the person it is given to must understand fragrances, just a little, so they can enjoy the process with this one. In the end, one may not like it but I think all can agree this is a, well, marvelous elixir. It is sophisticated with a sense oh humor.

It is one of my special fragrances, one I wear for certain occasions. It will not be a signature because I love florals too much, but that doesn't make me love this less. I find it quite beautiful, and with nary a flower. This is a whimsical, thoughtful perfume done right and it will always have a place on my dressing table.

My review is for a mini splash bottle, which means I can't apply it in quantity. It goes on very orangey - orange oil with a rich and sticky smell rather than the brightness of an Eau d'Hadrien. Then the cedar kicks in. Around this point I really hated it and considered scrubbing it - it smelt far too masculine to me. But after about 90 minutes it softened down into a highly animalic amber, which is really beautiful and goes on for agaes. It reminds me of vintage Obsession EDP (the one in the kidney-shaped bottle) and seems very sexy for a Jean-Claude Ellena scent - I think of him as quite a cerebral watercolour kind of perfumer. I love it - definitely full bottle worthy, but I will use up this mini first.

Just looking at the notes you'd think I would love this, resins, woods, patchouli and incense are my favorites. But no matter how hard I try I just can't make this work for me. I normally love the medicinal vibe but add orange and it's very disconcerting. It somewhat reminds me of chewable vitamin c. This is also surprisingly sharp. Sharpness in a scent I just can't do. By the time it softens out and slightly sweetens up and the buttery caramel comes into play I'm already over it. 30 ml up for swap if anyone is interested.

I brought a sample of this because i wanted to give it another chance, after sampling it last.
I smell woods, burnt caramel, syrupy orange and amber.
The same amber that is in ambre merveilles.
This is definitely unisex too.
When i smell this i think of a pine forrest, a fire set up and people cooking marshmallows. It gives that warmth along with the ruggedness of the woods and the gourmand touch.
Really beautiful and i am really enjoying it.

MMMMMMMMM.... I def like this.

The opening is very "green" and masculine.
Let it pass.

Then you get a creamy, buttery, citrus/orange, woody/amber concoction that I put in the same delicious family as Tom Ford Noir Pour Femme.

I don't get a screaming caramel (bummer, my favorite note!). More unisex than L de Lolita, not as foodie as L. But again... cousins maybe?

I have not smelled the original Eau des Merv but I have the L'Amber- which I like but is quite soft.

This has good longevity, with moderate sillage. I swoon every time I smell myself, but it's not suffocating or cloying. I love powerhouses tho.

This is another classic case of "smells great in-store on a slip of paper but doesn't really jive with my body chemistry".
Smells expensive and celebratory. Could be a unisex fragrance for sure. But, it's totally medicinal on me, with almost a powdery licorice note. This took me by surprise, considering the note list has a lot of things I love! Elixir should have been a win for me, but unfortunately, my sample is going into the swap-bin.

This was a birthday present from my mum. She knew I liked Eau des Merveilles, but she didn't realize the EDP had a different composition. The resin is dominating this fragrance and while I personally don't really mind, it gives my boyfriend a headache. The drydown for me is the best part though. It becomes warm, comforting and the woods come out to play. I love it, but I'll stick to wearing it when I'm out on my own. ;)

WOW this is potent and unique stuff. Only worn twice but here is my initial impression. BEAUTIFUL and definitely noticeable. I would say 3 sprays is more than enough depending on your chemistry. I smelled this a full 72 hours later on my shirt still.

It's a beautiful scent and got me a compliment - "smells SEXY" (!) I own Eau des Merveilles and I would say they are certainly related but Elixir is much stronger and leans more into the warm, richer side as opposed to a citrusy, peppery, lighter side. I still get a saltiness like the Eau. I also believe dry down is similar DNA as the Eau. In my opinion, I don't believe the label "gourmand" is accurate... it just doesn't read as gourmand to my nose.

I honestly could not identify the notes in this without looking at the chart. For me (24 y/o male), this reads as a rich, sexy fragrance. Not saccharin sweet, VERY unisex, just a very unique aroma. I am seriously considering getting a full bottle. LOVE IT!

Eau des Merveilles, Elixir, and others in this line are so unique and I would highly recommend everyone, regardless of age, gender, etc. test these at one point!!!

UPDATE - I *need* a full bottle and am planning on getting one ASAP!

UPDATE #2 - Be careful purchasing this fragrance through discount sites online. I may be incorrect, but I believe the 1.0 oz of Elixir is no longer produced; however, many sites will stock this size from time to time, and I purchased one of these. The scent is still good, but it definitely seems less potent then the sample I had from Sephora. I tried to look up the serial number but there was no match, though the box was sealed and seemed legit... Your results may vary, but I would recommend spending extra and get a bottle that hasn't been sitting in a warehouse for years.

quanto mi piace questo elixir, specie rispetto all'originale eau! e il tocco di jean-claude ellena si sente proprio! che dire: i primi spruzzi sono agrumati di un'arancia quasi caramellata, come fosse una marmellata, che si mantiene non stucchevole. quindi inizia il percorso resinoso orientale, in cui si percepiscono balsami orientali, e un effetto polveroso (quasi da carota) di fondo. la durata è media, l'effetto a lungo termine quello di un patchouli aranciato. bello, bello, bello!

It's beautiful. But not on my skin. Unfortunately it turns into a bitter and almost medicinal scent. The notes are to die for, though. Maybe I will give it another try, because I've been drooling at this for so long. And it smells so wonderful on my coat sleeve. I'm sad.

I would swear to God that it's a cinnamon centered perfume. Love for a balsamic from the first whiff. There are quite some layers until the cinnamony drydown.

It opens like a medicine, thank you Hermes, for most of the houses fear that aspect, because it obviously is unpopular, but I quite enjoy it. Keeps that way just before the drydown, when it rather settles into light medicine-like syrup. If you can recall the scent of those cinnammon candies that burn your tongue? This is more or less the drydown on my skin.

Before the drydown it's patchouli developing, also delightful, well done Hermes; after the patch it's the citrus, then the caramel. Turns a little peppery, boozy, and syrupy. I had this fear that I might turn gourmand-like, but thank God Hermes did not disappoint me. The resins though, damn! It is christmassy too!! Resins are last to develop before drydown.

Not really woody, despite the amount of wood notes, and this might be the first time when amber does not turn smoky on my skin, even though the fragrance contains incense too, my skin obviously refuses to co-operate. On a second thought though, it could be the combination of orange peels (wow, I thought it was just some citrus, but reading the notes...) and incense that creates the cinnamon feeling. Whatever, I love this stuff

Long lasting. Projection is very good for the first two to three hours. After that it stays close to skin.

P.S.: it's unisex really.

A true Oriental beauty. Intensely spicy, but subtle. Beautifully balanced. Love it.

Something kind of magical in a bottle. The way this smells to you will depend on your mood, chemistry, the weather, and your natural sense of smell. I ignored this for the longest time because it seemed like expensive body spray, it sits at an odd angle, and there is no cap (and combined at an Hermes price), but someone told me to try it. The commercial is enchanting. It's not complicated, and it doesn't try to sell you a story behind the perfume. Very carefree, mood lifting, and capable of being aromatherapy. It's intense stuff. One spray is enough, or my neighbors would be able to smell my perfume.

I completely agree with below review.I think hermes elixir Merveilles could have been labeled as unisex.I have ambre from this line and I find it much more feminine than this
I hate it's opening part.it's too bitter for my taste,also sharp and I don't like woody scents and this one seems to be all about woods(and orange ofcourse)but as it dries down bitter orange and woods are grounded by resin,caramel and amber so it becomes a little sweet,warm and balmy.it's drydown is nice,comforting and likable
I think I can like it more if I layer it with merveilles amber or any other sweet amber-vanilla or caramel
It's a mild/cool weather scent IMO wearable all year round but better for fall.longevity is very good on my skin,sillage is good when it's first applied and becomes moderate then
It's not a perfume I'd run to buy it but if it was heavily discounted I may give it a go(it's too expensive for something that's "meh" for me)
❤❤

I can't believe this is a feminine perfume. It could be unisex or even for men
I blindbuy it and hate it.tried it lots of times but nothing changed.even no one said I smell good and I usually receive nice complements from people even on my cheap perfumes. Finally I sold to my coworker,a young man who loved it and I like it on him
Hermes elixir des merveilles EDP is a warm,orangey perfume.caramel makes it sticky and balmy but not sweet.I can smell warm bitter orange(not sour or sharp or fresh) and balmy woods.if you like to smell like orange and woods you will like
Don't buy this as a gift for a lady that you don't know she likes it or not.just ladys with unique tastes in perfume like it
It's warm but you can use it all the year only very hot summer days isn't good for it
Longevity is good.6,7 hours on my skin sillage is moderate but it lefts a trail of perfume when you walk
Edt version of this perfume and elixir have a lot in common but I prefer edt.it's less warm and bitter,more feminine and unfortunately less strong
4/10
هرمس الکسیر ادومغوی رو مدتی پیش بلایندبای کردم و اصلا نپسندیدم.بسیار عجیبه که این عطر بعنوان عطر زنانه تولید شده چون می تونست یونی سکس یا حتی مردانه باشه.بعد از بارها امتحان کردن در نهایت من عطرم رو به یکی از همکارها که آقای جوانی بودند فروختم و ازقضا براشون بسیار برازنده و مناسبتر از من بود
هرمس ادومغوی الکسیر عطری گرم و پرتقالی هست.کارامل به عطر نرمی و چسبندگی میده ولی شیرینی نه.پرتقال ترش یاتیز یا فرش نیست نرم و تلخ هست و درکنار چوب های رزینی تنها چیزی هست که من استشمام می کنم پس اگر به روایح پرتقالی چوبی گرم و نرم علاقه مند هستید این عطر مناسب شماست
هرمس ادومغوی الکسیر اصلا مناسب هدیه برای خانمی که از سلیقه عطریش اطلاع ندارید نیست چون فقط خانم های خاص ممکنه اون را بپسندن
بااینکه عطر گرمی هست برای تمام طول سال به جز روزهای گرم تابستان ایده آل هست.ماندگاری خوبی داره حدود ۶،۷ ساعت و پخش متوسط اما خط بو به جا میگذاره
هرمس ادومغوی ادوتویلت بسیار شبیه الکسیر هست منتها به نظر من بهتر هست.زنانه تر هست و کمی شیرینی و خنکی داره اما متاسفانه نسبتا ضعیف هست
۴/۱۰

The first time I sniffed this, I actually said 'mmm'. Now that I have a bottle of this, I'm not quite as infatuated, but it's still a wonderful winter scent.

The opening is very sweet oranges and caramel. On a good day, the oranges are bright and zingy, but occasionally they are dried marmalade.

The woods come out pretty early and are pronounced, particularly the oak, which is a note I like, having lived around oak trees. The first hour of this perfume is very much like sitting by the fire on a dark evening, eating orange toffee in a room full of oak furniture.

Later on, the resins, amber and tonka bean carry on the cosiness. After that, you can smell soothing incense. The patchouli isn't particularly strong on my skin.

The longevity is just ok for a perfume of this price. It lasts about 4 hours on skin and 6 hours on hair. The sillage is moderate, which is good because you wouldn't want huge projection from this scent; it's more comforting than statement-making.

I do not think this perfume is 'masculine' or 'feminine'. I think it smells of comfort and that is an emotion without gender. In my opinion, this is very different to Eau des Merveilles. Eau des Merveilles is more of an autumn day scent whereas this is a proper winter nectar. It can be worn day or night, but at the latitude where I live, night and day are much the same in the winter, anyway.

I've realised that it's not favourite scent-worthy, but it's still very pleasant.