This unisex addition to the cult M+ collection promises “radiant depth” – but does cistus elevate or overwhelm the beloved Iso E Super formula?
When Molecule 01 + Cistus launched in September 2025 as the latest addition to Escentric Molecules’ M+ series, it sparked immediate curiosity. Perfumer Geza Schoen’s decision to pair the cult-favorite Iso E Super with cistus absolute – a material extracted from Mediterranean rock rose – promised something genuinely different. After testing this minimalist unisex fragrance, here’s the complete story.
Opening: Golden Resin Meets Cedarwood
Molecule 01 + Cistus opens with what one reviewer perfectly described as “earthy green freshness” before quickly transitioning into “woodier and drier” territory. The cistus absolute (used at 4% concentration) immediately announces itself as golden, sticky, and intense – think “labdanum but brighter, amber with a sunlit edge.”
The Iso E Super provides that signature abstract cedarwood quality that fans know and love, but here it feels more grounded and sensual than in the original Molecule 01.
The Heart: Leathery Sophistication
As the fragrance develops, the leathery facets of cistus become more pronounced. Schoen describes it as providing “this particular leatheriness with all its sweet and salty aspects.” Unlike harsh leather notes, this feels smooth and animalic – what one enthusiast called “like a musky incense cloud.”
The combination creates what the brand describes as “a haze of warmth, sheer and lasting” that feels both minimalist and complex.
The Dry Down: Smoky Mineral Depth
In the base, Molecule 01 + Cistus reveals its smoky and mineral qualities with “leathery undertones that ground the sweetness.” The cistus provides what reviewers describe as “autumn heat on the skin” – that lingering warmth that feels almost tactile.
One wearer noted it “hovers in the air, like a musky incense cloud” while maintaining the intimate, skin-scent quality Escentric Molecules is known for.
Performance: Intimate yet Radiant
True to the Molecule formula, performance is moderate and skin-close. Most wearers report 6-8 hours of longevity with gentle projection that rewards those who get close. The cistus adds more substance than some other M+ variants, making it slightly more detectable than pure Molecule 01.
Note: Like all Iso E Super-based fragrances, some people may experience olfactory fatigue and not smell it on themselves consistently.
The Unisex Appeal
This fragrance works beautifully across all gender lines. The leathery, resinous qualities provide depth without being traditionally masculine, while the golden, amber-like sweetness avoids being overtly feminine. It’s what the brand calls “sweet and leathery, smooth and animalic, quiet and insistent.”
Who Should Try This?
Perfect for:
- Existing Molecule 01 lovers wanting more complexity
- Fans of minimalist, skin-scent fragrances
- Those who appreciate leather and amber notes
- Anyone seeking a sophisticated unisex scent
Skip if:
- You prefer bold, projecting fragrances
- Leather notes feel too animalic on your skin
- You want traditional fragrance structure (top/heart/base)
- The premium pricing feels unjustified
Price and Value
UK Pricing:
- 100ml: £135
- 30ml: Check official site
For niche fragrance quality and the unique Iso E Super experience, the pricing is competitive with other luxury minimalist scents.
Cistus Adds Golden Complexity
This represents the most sophisticated entry in the M+ series to date. While other M+ variants can feel like simple additions to Molecule 01, the cistus creates genuine “radiant depth” that justifies its existence as a standalone fragrance.
Geza Schoen’s choice to highlight cistus – the “elegant sister” to the more commonly used labdanum – shows real artistry. The result is a fragrance that maintains Molecule 01’s mysterious appeal while adding Mediterranean warmth and sophistication.
Rating: 4.5/5
If you love the concept of Molecule 01 but want something with more personality and warmth, Molecule 01 + Cistus delivers brilliantly. It’s minimalism with soul – exactly what the best M+ releases should be.
Available now at Escentric Molecules boutiques, department stores, and select fragrance retailers worldwide.
