Molecule 03

When I first smelled Molecule 03, after getting to know its more popular siblings, Molecule 01 and Molecule 02, I was surprised it belonged to the same family—it’s nothing like them! It feels like a completely different creature. Molecule 03 definitely stands apart, almost as if it’s part of a different lineage altogether, especially when you consider its connection to Kinski. Molecule 03 is absolutely stunning. If you love vetiver perfumes and have liked scents like Encre Noir, Sycamore, or Route du Vetiver, this one is definitely for you. It’s earthy, rooty, and has a sharp, acidic edge that gives it a dirty yet refined vibe. 10/10 for silliage!

This perfume offers a bright and fresh green aroma with a strong presence, making it ideal for daily use. Just a single spritz is sufficient to enjoy its lingering fragrance.

My first thought was "blagh"! I can't say I knew what vetiver smelled like before, but this scent feels earthy, reminiscent of tea tree oil—sharp and minty with a damp, musky quality. It smells like wet leaves, moss, and sandalwood. If someone craves the forest floor vibe, they might love it. My boyfriend, however, absolutely adores this because he says it smells like a forest. He’s usually pretty indifferent to perfumes, often just saying, “It’s nice,” which is rare for him. When I wore it, he went on a scent-hunting mission and ended up loving it too! But there are things about the perfume that bother me. The consistency feels thick and oily—almost like a yellow liquid that clings to everything it touches. I can imagine this staining clothes, making you look like someone who’s lived in the woods. It doesn’t feel artisanal at all, more like something an amateur would put together, especially given the price tag. The scent itself isn’t bad, just not my style. It’s too fresh and smoky for me—I prefer scents that feel a little more polished or sophisticated. The smoke in this one is relentless, like the smell of a campfire, which I can’t escape. While I love the woods, this scent feels overdone. It’s like being submerged in nature until you start missing civilization. As for longevity, it doesn’t last as long on my skin as I’d expect from something like Escentric Molecules. But when I spray it on clothes, it sticks around all day—another reason why my boyfriend might be the better candidate to wear it. These perfumes are pricey, so I’m not sure if I’d buy another one for myself. It’s unique, but I wouldn’t repurchase willingly. Maybe it would suit a guy more, especially if he misses the great outdoors!

My grandmother used to chop all her veggies on a wooden cutting board—only veggies, no meats or cheeses. This perfume totally reminds me of that smell! It’s mostly celery with a hint of lovage, dill, cilantro, yesterday’s cucumber, and some mint. It’s kind of funny, but I’m not sure if it’s something I’d wear all the time.

This scent brings Byredo Bal d'Afrique to mind. It's surprising how few people have noticed its unique fragrance.