Yves Saint Laurent Opium Eau de Parfum 2009
In this review
Yves Saint Laurent's Opium is one of the most legendary names in perfumery, a bold oriental that defined an era when it launched in 1977. The 2009 Eau de Parfum iteration sought to modernize the formula while retaining the core DNA that made the original a sensation. This review examines the 2009 EDP concentration, a fragrance that continues to captivate with its warm, spicy, and balsamic character.
Unlike the original Opium, which was known for its intense, almost overwhelming presence, the 2009 EDP introduces a slightly brighter opening with citrus and white floral notes, making it more approachable for contemporary tastes. Yet it remains unmistakably Opium—rich, opulent, and deeply sensual. This version has become a favorite among those who appreciate a classic oriental with a modern twist.
In this article, we break down the notes, performance, seasonality, and overall value of Yves Saint Laurent Opium Eau de Parfum 2009, providing a factual and accessible guide for fragrance enthusiasts.
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
Bright citrus and floral notes of mandarin, bergamot, and lily-of-the-valley create an initial freshness that lasts about 15–30 minutes.
The heart reveals warm myrrh and jasmine, adding a resinous, floral depth that becomes more prominent after the first hour.
Base notes of opoponax, amber, patchouli, and vanilla provide a rich, sweet, and balsamic finish that lingers for hours.
Performance Dashboard
8–10 hours on skin, longer on clothing
Arm's length for the first few hours, then softens
Above-average; leaves a noticeable trail
When to Wear
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Rich, complex scent profile
- ✅ Excellent longevity
- ✅ Warm and inviting drydown
- ✅ Iconic brand heritage
- ❌ May be too heavy for summer
- ❌ Sillage can be overpowering in small doses
- ❌ Not for those who dislike sweet scents
Price & Value
“Good value for the quality and performance.”
Reformulation History
No significant batch variations reported; consistent quality across batches.
Who It's For
Ideal For
- Women who appreciate bold, warm, and spicy fragrances
- Fans of the original Opium
- Those who enjoy amber and vanilla dominant scents
Not Recommended For
- Those who prefer light, fresh, or aquatic scents
- People sensitive to strong sillage
The Family
Opium (1977)
Black Opium
Opium Eau de Toilette 2009
Belle d'Opium
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Layering Ideas
- Layer with a vanilla body lotion to enhance sweetness
- Pair with a light citrus perfume for a fresher take
