Jean-Claude EllenaThe nose · 104 fragrances · also made Hermessence Ambre Narguile (2004)Portrait →Will you like it? Mark a few fragrances you own or love and we'll tell you.
Frederic Malle · Sold as unisex
L'Eau d'Hiver 20 Ans
The quiet intimacy of an office late at night, where the coolness of the air meets the warm glow of a single desk lamp.
Full bottle: Luxury tier, typically $250+. Links open each seller's own page. We may earn a commission; it never changes the order.
L'Eau d'Hiver 20 AnsLuxury · $250+
48%Similar accords, often for lessRomance d'Iris · ZaraBudget tier, under $40 · shares 4 of its 8 notes8 matches →Composition & Character
The story behind the bottle.
L'Eau d'Hiver 20 Ans by Frederic Malle was launched in 2020 as a reimagining of the original L'Eau d'Hiver, with Jean-Claude Ellena at the helm. This fragrance opens with a bright citrus note that contrasts sharply against the powdery and earthy undertones, creating an intriguing tension between freshness and warmth. The heart of iris and violet adds a delicate floral touch, while the musky and woody base provides depth and longevity. It's a composition that evolves gracefully throughout the day, offering different facets with each passing hour.
For best effect, apply L'Eau d'Hiver 20 Ans to pulse points and let it develop on your skin for about an hour. The citrus notes dissipate quickly, but the musky base lingers, making this fragrance ideal for evening wear when you want a warm and inviting presence.
Fig. 01 — L'Eau d'Hiver 20 Ans, Frederic Malle
Where to buy.
Wear it for a week first
A decant costs a fraction of a bottle and tells you how it lasts on your skin.
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Jean-Claude Ellena
The perfumer of transparencyJean-Claude Ellena is widely regarded as the most intellectual perfumer of the modern era — a minimalist poet whose work redefined what fragrance could be.
“Cézanne's watercolours contain areas of wash that don't overlap. I proceed in a similar fashion.”
Jean-Claude Ellena · The Diary of a Nose (2011) / Frédéric Malle bio
The L'Eau d'Hiver line
2 fragrances, compared side by side
Designer Frederic Malle
More from the house · founded 2000 · France
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Chosen from what wearers say it smells like, what its fans also love, and its notes
Love it, not the $250+ price?
Matched by accords and notes. Sample first, then decide.
The originalL'Eau d'Hiver 20 AnsFrederic Malle · Luxury · $250+Zara · 2023Romance d'IrisShares 4 of its 8 notesunder $40★ 4.08 (412)53%Match
Giorgio Armani · 2016Armani Prive Fil RougeShares 4 of its 6 notes$100–250★ 3.82 (38)46%Match
Lattafa PerfumesAl NajrisShares Heliotrope, Bergamot and Irisunder $40★ 4.07 (59)
With Zadig & Voltaire This Is Really Him!
Adds metallic, white floral and aromatic; shares three accords.
Suggested from accords and notes · not yet tried by wearers
What people
are saying.
Respected, if divisive: loved by 0%, disliked or hated by 100%.