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 – 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

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

First Impressions – Amouage

I often gravitate towards the women's collection from the Omani perfume house of Amouage. I've found them more interesting than many of the men's scents they offer in their line. So, while in the department store the other day, I happened upon their new releases, entitled the "Renaissance Collection." The bottles are rather striking, and … Continue reading First Impressions – Amouage

First Impressions – Memo Paris, Comme des Garcons

Memo Paris - Ocean Leather - There isn't much to be said here other than this feels like a riff on Acqua di Gio, that after five minutes, dries down to a light, subtle herbal, suede scent. It's unconvincing for the price. Forgettable at best. It lasts for 3-4 hours before vanishing completely. Undoubtedly, there are … Continue reading First Impressions – Memo Paris, Comme des Garcons