First Impressions – Diptyque, Narciso Rodriguez, Byredo

Diptyque - Orpheon - The inspiration behind Diptyque's latest is a bar in the Saint Germain Quarter of Paris in the '60s. The only resemblance to a bar I pick up is the burst of juniper in the opening, which hints at gin and tonics and other libations. Though it's not listed as a note, the … Continue reading First Impressions – Diptyque, Narciso Rodriguez, Byredo →

First Impressions – Guerlain, Cartier

Guerlain - L'Homme Ideal Extreme - Guerlain has been trundling out their interpretation of the "Ideal Man" since 2014. We've had a sporty man, a cool man, and an intense man. This "Extreme" version veers away from the others' sweetness in favour of a dryer leather and tobacco combination. Plum does provide some fruitiness, but it … Continue reading First Impressions – Guerlain, Cartier →

First Impressions – Stephane Humbert Lucas

Stephane Humbert Lucas - Panthea Iris - Panthea Iris is one that many folks in Fragcomm have as their favourite iris. I have been slightly disappointed with it. Well made, no doubt. Housed in a beautiful bottle, no doubt. It lacks horsepower, though. The tonka, tea, and tobacco facets aren't strong enough to push through to … Continue reading First Impressions – Stephane Humbert Lucas →

First Impressions – Les Indemodables

Another day another buzz brand. French brand Les Indemodables, launched in 2016, has been causing some major ripples on social media of late. I've seen them everywhere, mostly with rave reviews behind them. I recently sampled their line that takes classic, timeless scent structures and gives them a modern update. I must say, I'm very … Continue reading First Impressions – Les Indemodables →

First Impressions – Stora Skuggan

First things first, the 30ml bottles from the Swedish niche outfit Stora Skuggan are beautiful. Real works of art. They practically cry out for you to sample them, and sample them, I did. Special thanks to my Instagram friend, Tete @niche_rare_fragrances, for sending me the samples. I always appreciate it. Stora Skuggan have been around … Continue reading First Impressions – Stora Skuggan →

First Impressions – New Amouage for Men

Amouage - Meander - Late last year I tried the women's fragrances from Amouage's new "Renaissance Collection." I didn't like either. The new men's scents aren't any better. Meander seems like a poorly conceived combo of Narciso Rodriguez Bleu Noir and BDK Gris Charnel. I like the Narciso, although it isn't my pick from the brand. … Continue reading First Impressions – New Amouage for Men →

Reviews: Guerlain Tonka Imperiale

Guerlain - Tonka Imperiale - Enjoyable but something's lacking 7/10 High-end expensive scents are always placed under the microscope and scrutinised more than their cheaper counterparts. I guess it's only fair. We want bang for our buck. Longevity, projection, and originality are all prime factors in deciding whether a perfume is worthy of a place … Continue reading Reviews: Guerlain Tonka Imperiale →

First Impressions – Anka Kus, Criminal Elements

It's Australia Day here today, the 26th of January, so time to turn the spotlight on a couple of independent Australian brands that I've recently sampled. Three perfumes, in particular, have left me with positive first impressions. Anka Kus, the brainchild of Ali Erkekli (previously known as Al Manlé) is based in Melbourne, and Criminal … Continue reading First Impressions – Anka Kus, Criminal Elements →