Acier (1988)
by Bourjois

This reminds me of both Chanel Egoiste and YSL Opium. It misses the velvet woody texture of Egoiste though for the sake of more 80's animalistic notes, creating a dull and thick scent just like Opium. Plus there are metallic hints in the first hour, in the same sense as when they say that blood has a metal taste. As said already, it's quite strong, but not in-you-face, its masculine aura very well controlled. And it's definitely outdated. I think one can put this on in an old fashioned smokey piano bar or jazz club or .. well you know, other types of old-fashioned places. Definitely an evening scent as well.

23rd August, 2010.

TOP: Sicilian Lemon
MIDDLE: Lavender, Juniper, Sandalwood, Coriander
BASE: Lichen, Honey
A bright opening of lemon and lavender. I smell peppered coriander followed by sandalwood . The honey is tempered by the lavender, so it never gets cloying. The addition of the juniper berry is not harsh, but it's definitely there trough the whole journey. There is a metallic note, created by the lemon/lavender combination which keeps the fragrance of becoming too sweet.
However, there are few problem areas for me. The progression up to the middle notes brings out a very decent combination of sour and sweet. The base on the other hand is very pleasant, but it fails to make a lasting impression on me. It just becomes warm and kind of fussy. Something is missing. Maybe a stronger opening with citrus and lavender would have helped the base notes cope better with the sweetness of the honey and lichen. Said that, I think it makes a nice fall/winter choice if you are spending the evening around the fireplace with a glass of full flavored red, or having dinner with old friends.
Acier reminds of the 80's in a peculiar way. Not so much in a sense of capturing the end of my teenage years, but more the memory of them.
Masculin Acier has plenty of character. I find it powerful, without being loud or unrefined. That's enough for me to give it thumbs up and enjoy the aura it creates.

5th August, 2010.