Le Labo Thé Noir 29 Eau de Parfum is a contemplative and refined unisex fragrance that captures the poetic soul of black tea. Rooted in craftsmanship and complexity, Thé Noir 29 is a testament to Le Labo’s philosophy of artisanal, soulful perfumery. This scent brings together the deep, smoky richness of tea leaves with a sophisticated blend of fig, woods, and musk—offering an olfactory experience that’s as intimate as it is memorable.
The Le Labo Identity: Artistry Meets Chemistry
Founded in 2006, Le Labo revolutionized niche perfumery with its raw, minimalist aesthetic and bespoke fragrance philosophy. Each bottle is freshly compounded in-store, complete with a personalized label. Thé Noir 29, released in 2015, embodies the brand’s ethos: meaningful scent creation rooted in storytelling, emotion, and craftsmanship.
The Olfactory Profile of Thé Noir 29
Le Labo Thé Noir 29 is an enigmatic, sophisticated blend where black tea plays the lead role, supported by complementary notes that lend both freshness and depth. It is a fragrance that whispers rather than shouts—subtle yet potent, personal yet expansive.
Top Notes: Fresh and Aromatic Spark
The opening of Thé Noir 29 introduces a lively burst of bergamot, fig, and bay leaves. This crisp, aromatic introduction evokes the earthy, leafy presence of a tea garden in early morning mist.
- Bergamot: Adds a citrus brightness, light and effervescent
- Fig: Earthy and fruity, providing creamy green undertones
- Bay Leaves: Herbal and subtly spicy, grounding the opening with elegance
Heart Notes: The Core of Black Tea Warmth
As the fragrance evolves, the heart reveals the central theme—black tea leaves. This is supported by cedarwood and vetiver, which add a resinous, smoky element that enhances the illusion of dry leaves and sun-warmed wood.
- Black Tea: Deep, smoky, slightly bitter with a tannic edge
- Cedarwood: Sharp and woody, lending structure
- Vetiver: Earthy and cool, with a soft smoky trail
Base Notes: Sensual and Lasting Finish
The base of Thé Noir 29 is subtle but long-lasting, featuring musk, tobacco, and hay, which interlace to create a sensual, nostalgic warmth that stays close to the skin.
- Tobacco: Sweet, warm, and softly spiced
- Hay: Dried, sun-drenched grassy tones, evocative of countryside serenity
- Musk: Clean, intimate, and lingering
Longevity, Sillage, and Projection
Le Labo Thé Noir 29 offers a unique performance that complements its intimate character. It’s not a room-filling scent, but rather one that invites closeness and introspection.
- Longevity: 6 to 8 hours
- Sillage: Moderate
- Projection: Soft to moderate, with a warm trail
Perfect for day or evening, casual or formal settings, Thé Noir 29 is an all-season fragrance, with particular charm in the transitional months of spring and fall.
Who Should Wear Thé Noir 29?
This is a fragrance for thinkers, artists, introverts, and tea lovers. Thé Noir 29 is unisex and genderless—refined without being showy, quiet without being bland. It suits those who value sophistication, nuance, and individuality in their personal scent.
Best Suited For:
- Age: 25+
- Gender: Unisex
- Occasion: Office wear, intellectual gatherings, personal rituals
- Season: Autumn, Spring, Winter
Packaging and Bottle Design
In keeping with Le Labo’s apothecary-chic aesthetic, Thé Noir 29 comes in a minimalist glass bottle with a metal cap and a typewritten label. The packaging is understated but sophisticated, allowing the fragrance to speak for itself.
Each bottle is hand-blended and can be customized with a name, message, or date—making it ideal for gifting or commemorating special moments.
Comparisons to Other Fragrances
Thé Noir 29 often invites comparison to other tea-inspired or smoky woody fragrances, yet it stands apart due to its complex structure and balanced execution.
- Compared to Bulgari Eau Parfumée au Thé Noir: Le Labo’s version is more layered and artistic, with a stronger woody base.
- Compared to Diptyque Eau de Lierre or Philosykos: Thé Noir 29 leans deeper and smokier, whereas Diptyque’s are greener and airier.
- Compared to Tom Ford’s Oud Wood: Thé Noir 29 is subtler and more cerebral, where Oud Wood is bolder and darker.
Where to Buy Le Labo Thé Noir 29
To ensure authenticity and freshness, purchase directly from:
- Le Labo Boutiques
- Le Labo Official Website
- Nordstrom
- Harrods
- Selfridges
- Liberty London
Each bottle is made-to-order, ensuring quality and precision in every spray.
Price and Value Proposition
Le Labo Thé Noir 29 sits in the premium niche category, typically priced around $215 USD for 50ml and $320 USD for 100ml. While not inexpensive, it offers exceptional value for those seeking a refined, artistic fragrance that doesn’t conform to mainstream trends.
The customization option, handmade ethos, and unique scent profile further enhance its worth. It’s a fragrance that resonates deeply, leaving a lasting impression without ever being overpowering.
Le Labo Thé Noir 29 Eau de Parfum is a modern classic for the introspective connoisseur. Its poetic homage to black tea, combined with natural materials and exquisite balance, make it a standout in the world of niche perfumery. Complex yet wearable, unique yet comforting, this scent reflects the very soul of Le Labo’s philosophy—perfume as an intimate expression of self.
If you’re looking for a fragrance that feels personal, luxurious, and intelligent, Thé Noir 29 is not just a scent—it’s a story waiting to be worn.