The Verdict

Scent Profile: Spicy, rose-forward opening with deep oud and vanilla.
Seasonality: Fall and winter; perfect for cooler, evening wear.
Sillage: Moderate, projecting up to 5 feet.
Longevity: 8+ hours.

Introduction

Ex Nihilo, a Parisian niche fragrance house, is renowned for its bold, innovative, and luxurious scents. Midnight Special EDP is a testament to the brand’s ability to create fragrances that capture the essence of mystery and sophistication. This fragrance, designed for the night, combines spicy, rose, and oud accords to create a scent that is both daring and elegant. Perfect for those who seek a fragrance with depth and complexity, Midnight Special is a standout in the brand’s portfolio.

Fragrance Notes

Top Notes: Saffron, Cinnamon, Black Pepper
Middle Notes: Turkish Rose, Rose, Grapefruit
Base Notes: Agarwood (Oud), Vanilla, Patchouli

Fragrance Profile

The fragrance opens with a bold and spicy introduction, thanks to the golden warmth of saffron, the sweet spiciness of cinnamon, and the sharp, peppery kick of black pepper. This combination creates an immediate sense of intrigue and sophistication, setting the stage for a rich and complex heart.

As the scent transitions, the middle notes reveal a luxurious, rose-forward core. Turkish rose and rose provide a velvety, classic floral depth, while grapefruit adds a bright, citrusy freshness that balances the richness of the roses. Together, these notes create a lush, opulent heart that feels both romantic and daring.

The dry-down is where the fragrance truly settles into its base of deep, smoky oud and creamy sweetness. Agarwood (Oud) adds a dark, resinous depth, while vanilla provides a smooth, creamy richness. Patchouli rounds out the composition with an earthy, slightly medicinal nuance, creating a warm, sensual base that lingers on the skin, leaving a lasting impression of mystery and allure.

Occasion

Midnight Special EDP is a fragrance designed for evening wear, particularly for occasions that call for a sense of mystery and sophistication. Its bold, rose-oud character makes it ideal for formal events, romantic evenings, or any gathering where a strong impression is desired. It’s best suited for cooler weather and nighttime settings.

Season

With its warm, spicy, and oud profile, Midnight Special EDP is best suited for fall and winter. Its rich roses and smoky base make it a standout choice for cooler temperatures, though it can be worn in air-conditioned environments during other seasons.

Performance

Performance-wise, Midnight Special EDP exhibits a clear and defined structure that remains consistent from the first spray to the dry down. The formulation highlights its capacity to adapt to environmental variations, retaining its character through extended hours. This reliable performance is coupled with an intriguing sillage that allows for personal allure to emerge subtly. Wearers can expect an authentic aroma that stays true throughout any event or activity, demonstrating a commendable level of artistry in execution

Longevity

8+ hours

Sillage

Moderate, projecting up to 5 feet

The fragrance offers excellent longevity, lasting a full day with moderate projection. It creates a noticeable yet intimate aura that is perfect for making a statement in social or intimate settings.

Conclusion

Ex Nihilo’s Midnight Special EDP is a luxurious and bold fragrance that combines spicy, rose, and oud accords into a scent that is both daring and refined. Its longevity and moderate sillage make it a practical yet striking choice for those who appreciate depth and complexity in their fragrances. Perfect for cooler seasons and evening wear, Midnight Special EDP is a fitting tribute to the brand’s commitment to innovation and elegance