MFK – L’Homme A la rose – Wonderful fresh, invigorating opening of grapefruit and rose. Watery, dewy, and never overbearing. Unfortunately, it falls relatively flat as it progresses. The unremarkable woody amber dry down, mimicking countless other “generic man” releases. Still, it is a step up from what you’ll find on the department store shelves. Maybe a good everyday wear for the office, but for mine, if you’re after a masculine rose from MFK, Lumiere Noire Pour Homme is the way to go.
Moschino – Toy Boy – I’m still not sure what to make of the bottle. I guess it’s the juice inside that counts. Toy Boy is one I’ve wanted to get my nose on for a while. It’s been riding the hype train since its release in 2019. It didn’t disappoint. Toy Boy is great. It’s by no means a masterpiece, but it is one of the better designer releases I’ve tried in some time.
A fresh fruity initial accord of pear, nose tickling pepper, and candied rose making for a fantastic, modern opening. The addition of cloves adds a spicy, warming effect that complements the top beautifully. Cashmeran and creamy woods in the base providing a convincingly strong finish. Toy Boy is an impressive balance of sweet and savoury notes—very nice work by Yann Vasnier.
Aesop – Rozu – Another quality scent to join the suite of quality fragrances from the Australian botanical brand, Aesop. Rozu is a dark rose with spicy, crisp green touches from shiso. No doubt, it bears that earthy, natural vibe that is the hallmark of Aesop. Smoky guaiac wood, patchouli, resinous myrrh, and green vetiver add intrigue and complexity, making for a unique take on rose. Perhaps the only downside is the sillage and longevity, but it’s a small gripe. Every year there are countless new rose releases, and Rozu is a standout rose release for 2020.
Have you tried any of these new rose releases? Do you have a favourite?
Note: Bottle images courtesy of Google. Samples purchased by the author.