First Impressions – Sarah Baker, Masque Milano, Mugler, Sammarco

I’ll preface this post by giving a special shout out to my Instagram friend Tetê who kindly sent me samples of these fragrances to try. Thanks, Tetê I really appreciate your kindness.

Sarah Baker Tartan – As I was born in Scotland, I was hoping I would love Tartan, and thankfully I do. It’s Wonderful woody, boozy scent with a twist. The twist is a bread note that adds a nutty wheat-like vibe to the composition. Ultimately, the combination of notes holds enough interest to a scent that is otherwise quite linear on my skin. Linear, in the case of Tartan is a good thing as I enjoy the opening so much. No real sweetness here, but very warm and inviting. Great work.

Masque Milano Kintsugi – One of my favourite Masque Milano’s that I’ve sampled so far. However, this leans too feminine on my skin. A modern chypre that substitutes oakmoss with a raspberry leaf note. The prominent notes here are magnolia (which is the dominant note), suede leather and rose. Patchouli provides an earthy dry-down. A unique, long-lasting scent that I think would work very well in cooler weather.

Mugler Les Exceptions Over the Musk – I’ve enjoyed exploring the Mugler higher end collection. Each scent that I’ve sampled from the Les Exceptions collection has been made from high quality ingredients and each has provided an enjoyable wear. I’m particularly fond of Hot Cologne, a coffee infused change-up on an Eau de Cologne. Over the Musk is a beautifully crafted, clean musk scent with the addition of black pepper and a hint of sweetness. Certainly snuggle-worthy.

Mugler Les Exceptions Ambre Redoutable – A spicy, somewhat sweet woody amber that gives me a slight cola vibe. Enjoyable to wear, but not my favourite from the line. Amber can often become cloying on skin, Ambre Redoutable did not. I’d even go so far as to suggesting it could be worn during warmer months, provided one went easy on the sprays. A good, without being great edition to the line.

Sammarco Vitrum – There are so many vetivers around, it is hard to stand out from the crowd. Vitrum manages to do so by its intensity. A long lasting, deep, earthy, smoky vetiver that has incredible tenacity on skin. I enjoyed 10 plus hours with good projection for the first couple of hours. Incense and black pepper provide a smoky and spicy touch. Recommended for those looking for a powerful vetiver.

Note: Bottle images courtesy of Fragrantica

Have you tried any of these scents? If so what do you think of them?