Hermès Fragrance review

Hermès Hermessence Myrrhe Eglantine Review

Christine Nagel's 2018 study in wild rose, myrrh, and quiet warmth.

By Vivir ·
In the rarefied world of Hermès Hermessence, fragrance is not a statement but a whisper. Myrrhe Eglantine, released in 2018 and composed by Christine Nagel, is a study in quiet contrast: the wild, honeyed freshness of eglantine rose meets the solemn, balsamic warmth of myrrh. It is a unisex EDP that refuses to shout, instead inviting the wearer into an intimate dialogue of resin and petal. This review examines the composition, heritage, performance, and value of Myrrhe Eglantine. We will explore how Nagel balances rose and myrrh, why the fragrance remains a staple of the Hermessence line, and who should consider adding it to their collection. With a Fragrantica rating of 4.01, it has earned a devoted following among those who prize subtlety over sillage. The Hermessence collection was launched in 2004 as a series of exclusive, unisex fragrances available primarily in Hermès boutiques. Myrrhe Eglantine continues this tradition, offering a contemplative, skin-like experience that rewards the patient wearer.
Longevity
2.0
Projection
1.0
Sillage
2.0
$240-$300
SpringSummerFallWinter

Accords

rose amber floral warm spicy balsamic

Notes Pyramid

Top
Wild Rose
Heart
Wild RoseMyrrh
Base
MyrrhWoody notes

Scent Journey

1
Opening 0-30 min

The fragrance begins with a burst of wild rose. It is fresh, slightly tart, and green, with a honeyed undertone that suggests the petals are still attached to the stem. There is a sense of morning dew and cool air. The myrrh is barely perceptible at this stage, but it lurks beneath the surface, waiting to emerge.

2
Heart 1-2 hrs

As the top notes settle, the myrrh rises to meet the rose. The composition becomes more balsamic and warm. The rose is still present, but it is now wrapped in a resinous veil. The scent feels thicker, though never heavy. There is a subtle spicy warmth that recalls incense or ancient resins.

3
Drydown 4+ hrs

In the base, myrrh and woody notes dominate. The rose has faded to a faint memory, leaving a soft, resinous, and woody trail. The balsamic quality persists, but it is now smooth and skin-like. The fragrance sits close to the body, a quiet companion rather than a commanding presence.

Performance Dashboard

Longevity 2.0/5

2-5 hours (modest)

Projection 1.0/5

intimate

Sillage 2.0/5

intimate to moderate

When to Wear

SpringOK
SummerOK
FallBest
WinterBest
officeeverydaydate nightcasual

Pros & Cons

  • Beautiful, naturalistic rose-myrrh accord
  • Unisex and versatile for many occasions
  • Office-friendly with intimate projection
  • Refined, balsamic, and contemplative character
  • Part of the prestigious Hermessence line
  • Modest longevity of 2 to 5 hours
  • Intimate projection and sillage may disappoint
  • High price point for the performance
  • Not suitable for those who dislike myrrh or resinous notes

Price & Value

$240-$300
Premium Hermessence pricing for 100ml EDP. Value lies in artistry, natural materials, and wearability rather than performance.

“Justified for collectors who prize subtlety and skin-like elegance; less so for those seeking power and longevity.”

Reformulation History

No significant batch variations reported.

Who It's For

Ideal For

  • lovers of quiet rose and myrrh compositions
  • unisex fragrance enthusiasts
  • office workers seeking a skin scent
  • collectors of Hermessence and Christine Nagel

Not Recommended For

  • those who want strong projection and sillage
  • fans of sweet gourmand or fruity fragrances
  • wearers who dislike resinous or balsamic notes

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Layering Ideas

Final Verdict

Hermès Hermessence Myrrhe Eglantine is a quiet masterpiece of restraint. Christine Nagel has crafted a balsamic rose that feels both ancient and modern, intimate and sophisticated. It is a fragrance to wear for oneself, a private meditation on rose and myrrh.

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HermèsHermessenceMyrrhe EglantineChristine Nagelrosemyrrhunisexbalsamicamberniche fragrance