Originally Posted by
Ken_Russell 
In my opinion, the last decade has stood out, especially, but not exclusively, thanks to these particular frags, namely:
Mugler Cologne (2001)- almost a niche-like Eau de Cologne quality and distinction, at designer prices. I've always searched for an Eau de Cologne-style frag comparable to the famous fresh, citrus-herbal smelling colognes from century-old fragrance houses, yet at the same time youthful enough to be suitable not just for casual wear, but also for a more contemporary environment and finally found this-: it is so cutting-edge, yet so distinguished at the same time , without even giving the feeling of unifying two extremes (the old-world and Old School luxury on one hand, a tasteful interpretation of postmodernity on the other).
Rive Gauche PH by YSL (2003)- another one of my faves from this particular decade and far more than a barbershop-smelling frag. No, it's actually the frag the niche firms would only dream of making, since, although first released in 2003, it has a certain classic, yet not obsolete, vibe to it. Understated elegance, almost universal wearability and very mature, yet also suitable for the younger crowd, who want to be more than just the "young generation" and who what to buy a piece of sophisticated, yet versatile chic without neither being too formal, nor emptying their accounts too much (because, if cash was the issue, Rive Gauche has a further advantage, it is available for almost minimal prices)
YSL M7 (2002)- Can an Oriental be manly and powerful, without smelling intoxicating or overpowering? Well, this one can
YSL Opium Eau d'Orient (2006)- a limited edition flanker which is actually worth getting. It smells more subtle, creamier and more solar, than the original Opium, more floral and sometimes even more peppery (but all in very pleasant way) to my nose
Burberry London for Men (2006)- sweet, but not unappealing, gourmand without being effeminate, I never knew that a vanillic-spicy frag can be so sophisticated, so dignified and so suitable for evening wear
Cerutti 1881 Amber (2002)- if you're into ambery and slightly "animalic" notes, this one may be for you, since, apart from its name, it offers much more than amber, combining this ingredient with floral, aromatic and even slightly leathery notes (especially during the drydown), plus the advantage of lasting quite long
Baldessarini Ambre (2007)- another treat for Amber fans, combining something of the almost Baroque splendor of the original Baldessarini with the ruggedly handsome ambery notes, all in a perfect harmony
Vetiver Lanvin (the 2003 new release)- an interesting, somewhat "greener" smelling, but also smoother alternative to most niche and designer vetiver frags, very close to the skin though, but in an unobtrusive, discreet, always enjoyable way
Obsession Night for Men by Calvin Klein (2005)- I'm usually not into sweet frags, but this one is the exception, which confirms the rule- one of the few "dark aquatics" (yes it might not be the appropriate term, but this is the way I perceive this one) without any annoying watery-ozonic touches, actually a very edgy frag, just carefully draped in some very soft suede notes, and no, by suede I'm not influenced in any way by the notes of this frag listed on it's main page, hell, I detected suede-smelling notes in it from the first whiff, long before I came across its Basenotes page
Solo Loewe (2004)- very complex, sensual and warm Mediterranean frag, the woody-spicy drydown being just the right one after its initial citrus-fruity opening
Jil Sander Man (2007)- the essence of cool and of clean-cut, no-nonsense classiness, a bit linear at first, but the uncommon, smoky-dry finish surely make up for the initial olfactory sensations
Roadster by Cartier (2008)- a mint-smelling frag that can be deep and elegant. Slightly "antiquated", "modern classic" (again, NOT in a dated way) about this one, even reminding me of the expensive leather in some well-preserved and very exclusive oldtimer car, there is something about this one which always stands out, yet without being pushy or ever renouncing its almost proverbial distinction
Fahrenheit 32 by Christian Dior (2007)- perceived by some as a mere "poorer relation" of the original Fahrenheit, this one actually smells amazing to me, bright, uncomplicated yet subtle, possibly due to the smoothness of vanilla and floral notes. Extremely suitable to be worn in late spring or in summer (yet anything but a generic "summery" frag, although light enough to be worn during the warmer seasons)
This list is far from complete and only includes frags, which came to my mind right now, therefore, it is neither alphabetical or chronological, it just follows the random order of some personal impressions. I have also chosen to name more than one frag and refrain from any ranking between the aforementioned ones, hoping that I could provide a broader range available for the next extensive fragrance search/testing/sampling, with more than one candidate for the title of the best frag (ore one of the best frags) of this decade. Nevertheless, enjoy, hoping hat it could be of some help and it could provide some useful info.
Happy holidays and wonderful Christmas!
