Vanilles du Monde is a set of five vanilla-based Eaux de Toilette from La Maison de la Vanille. Each of the fragrances focuses on vanilla from a specific country, and each is given a theme; Eau Noire du Mexique is called "the powdery accent" and has notes of bergamot, rose, jasmine, vanilla, iris, opoponax, tonka bean, and patchouli.
Eau Noire du Mexique starts with subtle spice notes and lots of bergamot. The spices, unfortunately, are indistinct and fairly short lived. The dry down is vanilla with light, well-blended florals. The patchouli is no more than a whisper, and there is a very slight undertone of something like bitter chocolate.
It is very soft and creamy, but the powder is restrained, and thankfully, so is the sugar, so while it is foody, it feels more sophisticated and grown-up than your average frosted vanilla cupcake fragrance. It is by far my favorite from this line, although I have yet to try the Fleurie de Tahiti. The lasting power could be a bit better — an Eau de Parfum with a bit more of a spicy kick would be lovely — but it is a nicely done comfort scent and very reasonably priced.
Eau Noire du Mexique is $32 for 100 ml. It is also available in a body lotion, or in a coffret set with all five of the Vanilles du Monde (15 ml each for $28). For buying information, see the listing for La Maison de la Vanille under Perfume Houses.
Related review: La Maison de la Vanille Givree des Antilles, Sauvage de Madagascar & Divine des Tropiques