French Avenue's Obsidian is an intensely sophisticated, unisex Extrait de Parfum that masterfully balances a vibrant, icy citrus opening with a rich, gourmand heart of cognac and spices, and a deep, luxurious woody-resinous base. Designed for those who appreciate a bold and modern signature scent, it has gained significant popularity for its distinctive, long-lasting character. Obsidian is an Oriental Woody fragrance, noted for its unique contrast of "icy" freshness and warm, dark elegance. The scent is considered a versatile, year-round fragrance that transitions well from daytime wear to evening events, performing best in cooler weather due to its depth and projection. Reviewers often describe the scent profile as a "fresh, spiced apple pie with a boozy hit" that maintains a clean, icy quality. The balance achieved between the fresh top notes and the sweet, woody base is widely praised as expertly executed.
- Top Notes: The experience begins with an energetic burst of citrus. Notes of grapefruit, Italian lemon, bergamot, mandarin, and bitter orange create a vibrant and clean impression. This freshness is amplified by an innovative "icy accord" and aldehydes, lending a crystalline, modern lift to the opening that is surprisingly refined rather than sharp.
- Heart Notes: The initial freshness transitions into a warm, sensual, and gourmand heart. A rich cognac accord takes center stage, blended with the spicy roundness of cinnamon and the smooth sweetness of caramel. This combination provides an irresistible and mature sweetness that adds significant depth and elegance without being overly sugary.
- Base Notes: The fragrance settles into a profound, dark, and long-lasting finish. A blend of tonka bean, oak, sandalwood, and cashmere wood provides a noble, woody foundation. Myrrh adds a mysterious, resinous nuance that contributes to the scent's impressive longevity and sophisticated trail. The base notes ensure the fragrance leaves a memorable impression long after application.