Etra by Etro

Etra kicks off with a spicy note, certainly from the pepper and coriander, though I also detect pepper, plenty of cardamom, and an anise aftertaste I can’t quite place. As it settles, the floral part blooms with geranium at the head and a woody base. The sillage is soft and lasts about 7–8 hours on my skin. I found it unisex and fun for informal occasions, ideal in spring and summer to liven up the heat, given that it doesn’t project much. Given the scent and price, I didn’t go crazy buying more; I removed it from my collection because it felt too light, though my partner adored it. Scent 6/10, Longevity 7.5/10, Sillage 4/10, Value for money 3/10, Versatility 6/10, Packaging 6/10. Would I buy again? No.

I’ve just received this perfume I bought blind after seeing votes for its similarity to Issey Miyake’s Le Feu (now impossible to get), and I must say I’m very surprised at how alike they are. I’d say 90%. Le Feu was more intense, like all quality perfumes from 20 or 30 years ago. So, if you already own Le Feu and want to enjoy it again, don’t hesitate to pick up Etra.

Thanks to Demopop for letting me try this perfume, which quickly became one of my favourites for beautifully blending familiar and exotic aromas. On my skin, it starts sweet and spicy, with that fresh kick from the cardamom, followed by vanillaised woods (Brazilian palo santo stands out) and a hint of pepper. It’s linear, but not therefore less complex; it lasts about 9 hours and projects at first. If I wear it later in summer, the opening is spicier, with cardamom and coriander, and the pepper adds extra sweetness. As it settles, it loses that initial explosiveness and the Brazilian palo santo takes over, becoming creamier and more vanillaised without losing the spicy base. Finally, flowers and musk are hinted at, though it’s a proper woody scent. The opening is potent but after half an hour it’s settled into an enveloping cloud that lasts about 8 hours. I’ve loved it; it’s an excellent personal fragrance. Super elegant without being formal, and I think, apart from when you need to be very dressed up, it suits any occasion except a scorching summer. Pleasantness: 8/10, Interesting: 10/10, Versatile: 8/10, Original: 9/10.