H01 Escentric Molecules 2023 unisex 8

The Verdict

Escentric Molecules H01 represents a notable departure for a brand built on molecular minimalism. Released in 2023 as an exclusive for Harrods, this Eau de Toilette was created by house perfumer Geza Schoen and moves well beyond the stripped-back aesthetic of the Molecule series. The name follows the brand's naming conventions, with H01 denoting the first fragrance created for Harrods.

Reception has been genuinely mixed. While some reviewers recognize something special in its complexity, others feel it strays too far from what made the brand famous. The revelation that the composition includes real castoreum surprised many, given the brand's association with clean, modern perfumery.

What It Smells Like

H01 opens with a bright, accessible combination of orange blossom, bergamot, mandarin orange, and lime. This citrus-floral introduction is immediately more complex than anything in the Molecule range, signaling that this fragrance has different ambitions.

The heart develops with davana, freesia, plum, and peach, creating a fruity-floral middle passage that some reviewers describe as leaning masculine despite the stone fruit sweetness. The peach note is particularly prominent and acts as a bridge between the bright opening and the darker base.

The dry down brings Iso E Super (the brand's signature molecule), amber, patchouli, vetiver, sandalwood, and musk. The inclusion of castoreum adds an authentic animalic dimension that gives H01 a leathery, lived-in quality that stands in contrast to the brand's typically transparent style.

When to Wear It

H01 works best in autumn, winter, and spring. The woody-animalic base notes need cooler temperatures to perform well, while the fruity-floral middle provides enough brightness for milder weather. Community members have described it as more of an autumn-winter-spring kind of scent.

It suits both casual and semi-formal occasions, offering enough complexity for evening wear while remaining approachable for daytime use.

Longevity & Projection

As an Eau de Toilette, H01 delivers moderate longevity typical of the concentration. The Iso E Super base provides a persistent woody haze that continues after the top and heart have faded, a characteristic that Escentric Molecules fans will recognize. Projection is moderate, sitting between intimate and noticeable without being overwhelming.

The Community Says

Basenotes forum discussions reveal genuine curiosity about this release. Reviewers at the Harrods launch event noted that Geza Schoen confirmed the use of real castoreum, which generated discussion about the brand's evolving identity. Fragrantica reviewers are split, with one stating directly that while Molecule 01 is great, H01 is a flop. Others are more positive, recognizing that the fragrance is not just Iso E Super dressed up for Harrods but a genuine attempt at a more complex composition.

The price of 180 GBP has drawn commentary, with reviewers noting that the bottle decorated with real gold accounts for a portion of the cost.

Who Should Buy This

H01 is best suited for Escentric Molecules enthusiasts who want to see the brand stretch its creative boundaries, as well as collectors who appreciate retail-exclusive releases. Those who enjoy woody-animalic fragrances with fruity openings and a molecular backbone will find the most to appreciate here. Sampling at Harrods before committing is strongly recommended.

The Bottom Line

Escentric Molecules H01 is an ambitious Harrods exclusive that pushes the brand beyond its minimalist comfort zone with genuine complexity and unexpected castoreum, but its departure from the house aesthetic and premium pricing mean it needs to be evaluated on its own merits rather than as an extension of the beloved Molecule series.