Black Licorice

“Ayala Moriel Black Licorice Review”

Black Licorice is exactly what the name suggests, and that directness is part of its appeal. This is not a vague spicy amber with a token anise note tucked inside. It sets out to smell like black licorice, then builds that idea with honey, florals and earthy depth. For the right wearer, that focus is refreshing. For everyone else, it may feel too specific to wear casually.

The opening is the key moment. Star anise and black currant create an aromatic, dark-sweet start that immediately signals a licorice profile rather than a generic spicy oriental. It is not boozy, smoky or heavily resinous. Instead, it comes across as spicy, herbal and slightly sticky, with the kind of black candy impression that will either pull you in at once or tell you this is not your style.

As it settles, the fragrance gains a softer centre through honey, rose and ylang-ylang. That floral layer matters because it stops the composition from feeling flat or novelty-like. The honey can add a smooth, golden texture, while the rose and ylang-ylang round off the sharper edges of the anise. Even so, the scent does not abandon its licorice identity. The floral heart supports the theme rather than changing it.

The base keeps things grounded. Patchouli and tarragon give Black Licorice an earthy and aromatic underside, while vanilla adds a little polish and warmth. The result is less candy-shop gourmand than many shoppers might expect from the name. It usually reads more herbal, spicy and textured than creamy or fluffy. That makes it more interesting for niche perfume fans, but also less instantly approachable if you were hoping for a softer mainstream gourmand.

Performance is harder to pin down because the available wear data is limited and inconsistent. The safest reading is that projection is modest to moderate, while longevity may vary a lot depending on skin and application. This does not look like a universally powerful statement scent on paper. It looks more like a distinctive personal scent with a very specific note profile.

As a buying proposition, Black Licorice makes the most sense for people who already know they enjoy anise, tarragon and aromatic sweetness. It also helps if you appreciate natural-leaning niche perfumery that allows unusual materials to stay slightly raw around the edges. If your taste runs toward clean musks, bright citrus or easy office-safe florals, this will probably feel too eccentric. The brand positions it as a seasonal Halloween fragrance, and that framing fits. It has a playful dark sweetness, but it wears with enough herbal depth to avoid becoming costume-like.