Etoile de Bali by Nectar Olfactif: A Little Piece of Paradise

When I came across Nectar Olfactif, I was instantly drawn to their story. Inspired by the beauty of bees and the natural world, this niche perfume house feels like it was made for someone like me—someone who loves a good balance of artistry, storytelling, and scent. Created by David Perrin, a traveler and fragrance collector, the brand collaborates with some of the best noses in the industry, including Serge de Oliveira from Maison Robertet. Each fragrance is crafted with care, blending high-quality natural ingredients and honoring the meticulous processes of traditional perfumery.

But it’s not just about the juice. The bottles themselves are stunning: honey-colored interiors, a cap that looks like a honeycomb, and gold medallions featuring bees and flowers. Everything about it feels thoughtful and luxurious. The brand has four fragrances in their lineup, and one of them—Etoile de Bali—had me hooked from the moment I read about it.

The Inspiration Behind Etoile de Bali

Ever since my sister came back from her trip to Bali, I’ve been low-key obsessed with the idea of going there. She raved about the island—the breathtaking nature, the food (she’s picky, so if she loved it, it must be good), and how kind and welcoming the people were. Bali’s been on my travel list ever since.

When I read that Etoile de Bali was inspired by Bali’s vibrant flowers and the Rain of Flowers ritual—a ceremony where floral water infused with petals like jasmine, gardenia, lily, and hibiscus is used to bring radiance and softness—it immediately clicked with me. This fragrance felt like the perfect way to bring a little Bali magic into my life, even if I haven’t made it there just yet.

How Etoile de Bali Smells

On paper, Etoile de Bali sounded like it was made for me. The notes include bergamot, mandarin, freesia, jasmine, honey, and a base of sandalwood and musk—basically, everything I love. The opening is fruity and light, with the citrus giving it a fresh and tropical vibe. But within minutes, the real magic starts: the honey and flowers step forward. Imagine a warm, sweet floral bouquet that’s soft but noticeable, like you’re standing in a garden drenched in golden sunlight.

For me, the scent stays in this honey-and-flower zone for about an hour or two. While I loved that part, I was waiting for the sandalwood and musk to kick in and add some depth—but on my skin, they didn’t show up much. It’s a shame because I think those notes would’ve rounded it out beautifully and taken it to another level.

My Most Memorable Moment with Etoile de Bali

The first time I really felt this fragrance was on a family trip to the Christmas market in Cologne. It was freezing that day, and I’m not a cold-weather fan, so I needed something that felt warm and comforting. As we got out of the car, I gave myself a generous spritz of Etoile de Bali. Within seconds, my mom and sister started asking what smelled so good. My sister described it as “sweet, like warm honey, but with something summery,” which nailed it. It gave me a little glow, even in the cold, which is exactly what I was hoping for.

Final Thoughts on Etoile de Bali

Etoile de Bali is a beautifully crafted fragrance that captures the essence of a Balinese floral paradise. It’s perfect for those who love gourmand-floral scents and are drawn to the sweetness of honey paired with a bouquet of tropical blooms. However, if you’re looking for a fragrance with strong projection and longevity, you might find yourself reapplying this one throughout the day.

While the fleeting nature of Etoile de Bali was a slight disappointment, its charm lies in the moments it creates—a fragrant escape that brings warmth and joy. Whether you’re strolling through a wintry Christmas market or dreaming of Bali’s sun-soaked shores, Etoile de Bali is a reminder of the beauty and serenity of nature.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely, especially if you’re someone who cherishes subtle, intimate fragrances that evoke a sense of place. And while I still have Bali on my bucket list, Etoile de Bali offers a little piece of the island to carry with me until I make it there.

What about you? Have you tried Etoile de Bali or anything else from Nectar Olfactif? Let me know—I’d love to hear what scents transport you to your dream destinations!

Ratings Breakdown

• Projection: 7/10
• Sillage: 9/10
• Longevity: 4/10
• Complexity: 7/10
• Uniqueness: 8/10
• Likability by Others: 10/10
• Personal Preference: 9/10 
• Price-Value Ratio: 7/10 (due to the longevity)
• Versatility: 7/10
• Overall Rating: 7.5/10