Un Jardin Sur Le Nil by Hermes is a unisex citrus floral fragrance released in 2005 and created by Jean-Claude Ellena.
As a fragrance lover, I’m drawn to scents that resonate with me. Sur Le Nil by Hermès is one such creation that I find deeply engaging.
Over the years, I’ve realized that many perfume stories are more marketing than reality. However, Sur Le Nil is a refreshing exception, with a narrative from Jean-Claude Ellena’s real-life travels to Africa.
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In this review, I will walk you through the history, notes, and personal experience with this fragrance while exploring what makes it unique and why I placed it into the Holy Grail category.
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HERMES UN JARDIN SUR LE NIL DETAILS AND INSPIRATION
Hermès, a well-known brand associated with luxury products and high-quality fragrances, entered the fragrance market in the mid-20th century.
The Jardin collection, crafted by Jean-Claude Ellena during his tenure as the in-house perfumer from 2004 to 2016, stands out as one of their most iconic series.
The release of Sur Le Nil in 2005 marked a significant milestone in this collection. Inspired by his visit to Egypt, Ellena was particularly struck by the lush vegetation along the Nile.
The fragrance captures this experience by emphasizing the distinctive and refreshing qualities of green mangoes and lotus flowers.
Chandler Burr chronicled the development of Jardin Sur Le Nil, along with Sarah Jessica Parker’s perfume Lovely, in his book The Perfect Scent: A Year Inside the Perfume Industry in Paris & New York (2008).
This period represented a pivotal moment for Hermès and the perfume industry at large, as the “noses” responsible for creating fragrances gained recognition beyond the confines of the industry.
This release is still in production and available in various sizes, from 50ml for $116.00 to 100ml for $156.00.
PERFUME ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
A NOTE FROM THE BRAND: “Un Jardin sur le Nil is an impressionistic stroll through the island-gardens on the Nile at Aswan, the starting point for a new olfactory adventure. Green mango, lotus, calamus and sycamore wood all lie at the heart of this refreshing ode.
Olfactory strolls through the different annual themes of the house, the Les Jardins fragrances attest to genuine encounters between the Hermès spirit, the soul of a place and the perfumer-composer.”
PERFUME INFO
- PERFUMER: Jean-Claude Ellena
- OIL CONCENTRATION: Eau de Toilette
- FRAGRANCE TYPE: Citrus Floral
- RELEASE DATE: 2005
- TARGET AUDIENCE: Unisex
- MASCULINE/FEMININE: 40% – 60%
- DOMINANT NOTES: Green Mango, Tomato Leaf, Musk
- AGE GROUP: 25+
- SEASONS: Spring, Summer, and Fall
- OCCASIONS: Any Occasion
- PERFORMANCE: 4 – 6 hours with moderate projection
- COMPLIMENTS: Low
- LIKEABILITY: Moderate
- UNIQUENESS: 4/5
- PRESENTATION: 4/5
- VALUE FOR MONEY: 9/10
- PRICE: $$
- ACCORDS: Citrus, Aromatic, Floral
- REVIEWED BATCH CODE: 00301 – June 2020
- REFORMULATED: Yes
- HOLY GRAIL RATING: A
- SAMPLE/BUY/PASS: Sample
- TESTING PERIOD: 3 years and 3 months
- PRODUCTION: Yes
- POSSIBILITY OF DISCONTINUATION: Low
PERFUME PRESENTATION
Hermès is well-known for designing beautiful, understated packaging, and Sur Le Nil is no exception.
The bottle mirrors the simplicity and refinement of the fragrance itself. The gradient design, which transitions from green to clear, evokes the lush vegetation and flowing waters of the Nile.
While the sprayer is fantastic, the real downfall here is the cheap plastic cap, for which there was no excuse for not making it out of glass to make it a perfect package.
While my bottle is a tester unit, I have seen and held the box of this fragrance in the perfume shops, and it’s alright for a designer.
The only thing that stands out from the bunch is the lotus flowers that introduce you to what you can expect from this creation.
Overall, the whole packaging is excellent except for that cheap cap.
NOTE BREAKDOWN
In this section of my Scent Grail review, I’ll dive into the note breakdown that plays a crucial role in shaping the identity of a fragrance.
Understanding how the top, heart, and base notes interact can provide valuable insight into the overall character of the scent.
Whether you’re considering adding a fragrance to your collection or simply curious about how the notes unfold, this breakdown will help you appreciate the craftsmanship and positive and negative sides of a particular fragrance.
PERFUME PYRAMID
- TOP NOTES: Grapefruit, Green Mango, Tomato, Carrot
- HEART NOTES: Lotus, Bulrush, Orange, Hyacinth, Peony
- BASE NOTES: Musk, Iris, Incense, Labdanum, Cinnamon
TOP NOTES
The top notes are what I’m 100% sure will make you love this fragrance from the start or give up on it.
The vibrant blend of citruses such as grapefruit and slightly bitter mango with a combination of straight-out-of-garden tomato smell is only for some.
The green mango brings a crisp aroma, evoking the lush tropical gardens along the Nile.
At the same time, the tomato gives a vegetal nuance that balances the fruity sharpness, creating a fresh, earthy complexity that makes this perfume uniquely refreshing.
Labdanum and cinnamon might have been in the mix for a couple of first formulations, but now, they are just for the show and nowhere to be found, just like the carrot from the top notes.
HEART NOTES
The heart notes continue the green theme with an elegant combination of lotus flowers (watery-effect), hyacinth, and peony, creating a serene, aquatic bouquet.
This is where the fragrance starts to lean more to the feminine side and stays like this until the far dry down.
Regardless, there isn’t any other fragrance on the market that can evoke a time and place better than this one, and guys can easily wear this one if you aren’t scared of smelling slightly feminine.
BASE NOTES
After an hour or two, when the fragrance settles down, we are introduced to a couple of notes that lead the way and soften the bitter and green aspects of this creation.
This is the phase of scent progression where I thought, does this deserve to be included in my Holy Grail section, and why it took me so long to review it in the first place?
But given its importance to the fragrance industry and how Ellena has this magic ability to paint scenes in a perfume form, Holy Grail is the only option here.
The base notes are composed of soft white musk, a slightly powdery iris, a pinch of dusty incense, and residues of the top and mid notes.
As a whole package, and regardless of its shortcomings in the base, if you give it a chance during the right season of the year, I highly doubt you’ll get a better fragrance for this theme elsewhere.
PERFORMANCE & APPEAL
From my experience of wearing this fragrance during the warmer weather, the longevity on my skin averages around 4 to 6 hours.
While this may seem short for those who prefer more intense perfumes, it is alright since it aligns well with the fragrance’s refreshing and airy nature.
Projection and sillage are moderate and leave more to be desired because it is not a fragrance that will announce your presence from across the room.
This unisex fragrance is designed to appeal to both men and women, especially those who appreciate nature-inspired citrus colognes.
In my experience, it is a fragrance more suited to ladies than men, but I have no issues with that.
In terms of age range, this fragrance suits a wide demographic, especially if you are over 25, since the younger folk will struggle more to pull it off than the more mature crowd.
The natural and refreshing scent of Sur le Nil can elicit compliments, especially from those close to you. It’s not a loud, attention-grabbing fragrance but one that invites subtle appreciation.
I still vividly remember a compliment from my coworker a couple of years ago about how clean, crisp, and natural the fragrance smells.
OCCASIONS & VALUE
This Ellena’s composition is versatile and shines during warmer months, making it ideal for spring and summer.
Its citrus notes and fresh summery green accords, like green mango tomato, make it particularly well-suited for outdoor events, such as garden parties, brunches, or casual picnics.
One of the most striking features is its uniqueness in the world of fragrances, as we can see from the perspective of when it was released.
No wonder it has inspired many other brands to make similar, popular fragrances. As for the value for money, it comes with an associated premium price if you shop retail.
But we all know that the price drops significantly if we look at discounters.
I paid for my tester unit around $50.00 back in 2021, which was one of the best deals ever. Look around and see which of your local fragrance discounters offers the best price.
PROS AND CONS
Each composition brings charm, complexities, and shortcomings to the diverse perfume landscape.
Exploring the pros and cons provides a comprehensive view, aiding fragrance enthusiasts in their quest for the perfect olfactory experience.
Understanding these nuances allows you to make a more well-informed choice, ensuring a tailored match for individual tastes.
Pros
- Unique and versatile composition
- Elegant and understated
- One of the best creations from Jean-Claude Ellena
- High-quality ingredients
- Costs the same at fragrance discounters as the clone brands charge you for their “inspired” fragrances
Cons
- Performance is average – needs reapplying throughout the day
- Limited Mass Appeal
- It leans more into the feminine side – not a real unisex
COLLECTION & SIMILAR PERFUMES
Un Jardin Sur Le Nil is a part of the “The Parfums – Jardins” line that started in 2003 with Un Jardin en Mediterranee and currently features six different perfumes.
A NOTE FROM THE BRAND: “Indulging a desire to escape the everyday, the olfactory strolls offered by the Parfums-Jardins reflect authentic encounters between the spirit of Hermès, the soul of a place and the inspiration of a perfumer.”
COLLECTION
SIMILAR PERFUMES AND ALTERNATIVES
EDITOR’S CHOICE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Welcome to the FAQ corner on Scent Grail, curated to unravel the most common queries surrounding the best niche perfumes for winter.
Whether you’re a fragrance enthusiast seeking to explore the world of niche perfumes or simply looking for additional information to complement your style, this FAQ section will provide valuable insights.
What does Jardin Sur Le Nil smell like?
Hermès Un Jardin Sur Le Nil opens with fresh, green mango and grapefruit, followed by subtle notes of lotus, peony, and a touch of watery tomato that evoke a lush, tropical garden. The fragrance dries down to soft, musky undertones of white musk and gentle incense, creating a light, airy, and refreshing scent perfect for warm weather.
What is Hermès’ most popular perfume?
One of Hermès’ most popular perfumes is Terre d’Hermès, a sophisticated blend of citrus, vetiver, and woody notes designed to evoke the connection between earth and sky. Known for its earthy, spicy, and mineral accords, it’s celebrated for its versatility and timeless appeal among perfume enthusiasts.
What does “Sur Le Nil” mean?
“Sur Le Nil” translates to “On the Nile” in French, referring to the iconic river in Egypt. The name evokes imagery of the lush, vibrant landscapes along the Nile, which inspire the fragrance’s fresh and green notes like mango and lotus.
What are the notes in Hermès Jardin Sur Le Nil?
Sur Le Nil’s notes include fresh top notes of green mango, grapefruit, watery-sweet tomato, and carrot, followed by heart notes of lotus, orange, hyacinth, peony, and bulrush. The base features earthy accents of musk, iris, labdanum, cinnamon, and soft incense, creating a subtle yet refreshing composition.
Is Jardin Sur Le Nil unisex?
Yes, Un Jardin sur Le Nil is a unisex fragrance that appeals to both men and women while leaning slightly more toward the feminine side. Its fresh citrus, green mango, and aquatic notes make it versatile and suitable for any gender, offering a light, refreshing scent.
FINAL WORDS
It took over three years to own this fragrance and get this review done because it is a divisively simple fragrance.
It is a niche scent disguised as a designer and something everyone should smell at least once.
It is a proper art form in a bottle, and besides the Terre d’Hermes line, it is something that you should check out from the brand.
It is a one-of-a-kind composition and probably the best one from Ellena to learn his distinctive style of perfumery.
What do you think about this article covering Hermès Un Jardin Sur Le Nil? Let’s start a conversation, and let me know in the comment section below.
If you are unsure whether to buy a fragrance, it is always a good decision to look at Scent Grail’s S.P.A. Signature Factor Guide.
It is easy to use and the most relevant perfume-buying guide on the web. This way, you can determine whether a particular fragrance is worth checking out and potentially find your signature perfume.
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Until next time, stay humble, and keep smelling great!
Best, Marin!
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– Marin Kristić
Hi Marin. Loved the article. One question. Have you experienced any interesting reactions or compliments when wearing Un Jardin Sur Le Nil that surprised you? Thanks
Hi Niall. I’m glad you enjoyed the article! Regarding Un Jardin Sur Le Nil, I’ve received some interesting reactions. What surprised me the most was how people commented on the freshness and uniqueness of the scent. Even though it’s a lighter fragrance, it stands out because of the green mango and lotus notes, which you don’t find in many perfumes. I’ve had a few compliments from people who usually gravitate towards heavier scents, and they were really intrigued by how refreshing and elegant this one was, especially on warmer days. It’s the kind of scent that catches people off guard in a good way! Best, Marin
Hi. What inspired you to choose Hermès Un Jardin Sur Le Nil for a detailed review, and how does it stand out compared to other Hermès fragrances you’ve experienced?
Hello. Thanks for the comment. I chose to review Hermès Un Jardin Sur Le Nil because I’ve always been fascinated by the unique way Hermès fragrances capture natural landscapes, especially after experiencing Terre d’Hermès and Concentré d’Orange Verte. While those fragrances focus on earthy, woody, and citrus elements, Un Jardin Sur Le Nil offers a different journey—it feels like walking through a lush, tropical garden. The blend of green mango and aquatic lotus flower sets it apart, making it refreshing, light, and vibrant in a way the other two don’t quite achieve. Best, Marin
From your experience, how does the white musk in the base notes add to the dry-down, and does it change the fragrance’s character over time? Thx, George.
Hi George. In my experience, the white musk in the base subtly enhances the dry-down by adding a soft, clean finish. The musk also adds a hint of longevity, helping the fragrance linger delicately on the skin without changing its light, aquatic nature. Best, Marin 🙂
Bonjour Marin! Did you find that Jean-Claude Ellena’s minimalist style impacts the scent’s complexity or longevity? How would you describe his approach in this perfume? Au revoir! Jules
Hello Jules! Jean-Claude Ellena’s minimalist approach truly defines Un Jardin Sur Le Nil. Unlike many perfumes that layer complex notes, Ellena’s style here is purity and subtlety, letting each note shine naturally, like the mango and lotus. His touch makes this fragrance feel like a watercolor painting—light, airy, and refreshingly simple. As it develops, the scent maintains its green, aquatic essence without overwhelming, revealing a quiet depth that feels timeless yet uncomplicated. It’s the perfume that gently evolves rather than transforms, embodying his philosophy that sometimes, less truly is more. Best, Marin 🙂