A luxurious unisex blend of May Rose, amber, and cedar that redefines evening elegance.
By Vivir·
In this review
In the ever-evolving world of niche perfumery, Ex Nihilo has carved a niche for itself with its commitment to craftsmanship and contemporary elegance. Their latest offering, Amber Sky Signature Rose De Mai, is a testament to this ethos—a fragrance that reimagines the classic rose-amber duo with a modern, unisex twist. Released in 2021 and crafted by the renowned perfumer Olivier Pescheux, this scent is a celebration of the May Rose, a flower so precious it requires hand-harvesting in the fields of Grasse. But this isn't your grandmother's rose; it's a warm, woody, and subtly spicy composition that feels both timeless and utterly of-the-moment.
As a fragrance trend analyst, I've watched the resurgence of rose in niche perfumery with great interest. Once relegated to the realm of traditional femininity, rose has been reclaimed by perfumers who are blending it with unexpected notes—oud, leather, spices—to create scents that transcend gender. Amber Sky Signature Rose De Mai is a perfect example of this trend. It takes the lush, honeyed facets of May Rose and wraps them in a cocoon of amber, cedar, and sandalwood, resulting in a fragrance that is both comforting and sophisticated. It's the kind of scent that makes you want to curl up by a fire with a glass of wine, yet it's equally at home at a black-tie event.
In this review, we'll dive deep into the composition, performance, and overall value of this luxurious fragrance. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the world of niche perfumery, you'll find everything you need to know about Ex Nihilo Amber Sky Signature Rose De Mai.
Longevity
4.0
Projection
3.0
Sillage
4.0
€380-€420
SpringSummerFallWinter
Accords
WoodyAmberPowderyRoseWarm Spicy
Notes Pyramid
Heart
May Rose
Base
AmberCedarSandalwood
Scent Journey
1
Opening0-30 min
The fragrance opens directly with the heart note of May Rose, a lush and slightly spicy floral that immediately captivates. The warm spicy accord adds a subtle piquancy, setting the stage for the richness to come.
2
Heart1-2 hrs
As the rose settles, the amber and woody notes begin to emerge, creating a warm, enveloping aura. The powdery facet adds a soft, vintage-inspired elegance, while the cedar and sandalwood provide a creamy, grounding foundation.
3
Drydown4+ hrs
The drydown is a harmonious blend of amber, cedar, and sandalwood, with the rose lingering softly in the background. The powdery finish gives it a sophisticated, skin-like quality that lasts for hours.
Performance Dashboard
Longevity4.0/5
8+ hours
Projection3.0/5
moderate
Sillage4.0/5
moderate to strong
When to Wear
SpringOK
SummerAvoid
FallBest
WinterBest
date nightevening wearspecial occasions
Pros & Cons
+Warm, luxurious blend of rose, amber, and woods
+Excellent longevity (8+ hours)
+Moderate to strong sillage
+Unisex appeal
+Perfect for evening and special occasions
+High-quality, natural ingredients
−High price point
−Limited to cooler seasons
−Powdery note may be polarizing
−Not for those who prefer fresh scents
Price & Value
€380-€420
A luxury niche fragrance with high-quality ingredients and impressive performance; the price reflects the exclusivity and craftsmanship of Ex Nihilo.
“While expensive, it offers a unique and refined olfactory experience that justifies the investment for serious fragrance enthusiasts.”
Reformulation History
No significant batch variations reported.
Who It's For
Ideal For
Those who appreciate warm, woody, and rose-based fragrances
Layer with a vanilla-based fragrance to enhance the amber sweetness
Pair with a citrus cologne to add a fresh twist for daytime wear
Final Verdict
Ex Nihilo Amber Sky Signature Rose De Mai is a masterful composition that marries the opulence of May Rose with the warmth of amber and woods. Its impressive longevity and moderate-to-strong sillage make it a standout for evening wear, while its unisex appeal ensures it resonates with a wide audience. Despite the high price, it's a worthy addition to any niche fragrance collection.