After reading all about Black Musk, I was looking forward to trying this one but, after trying it at the Paris boutique, I am not as enthusiastic as others.
Yes, it's definitely a different take on Black Aoud but, to be honest, if you love Black Aoud the way it is, there really isn't much point in owing this. It starts out smelling true to the spirit of Black Aoud before the musk kicks in, and this is where it goes wrong for me. I think the patchouli's been greatly reduced to accommodate the musk theme but, merged with the oud note, it smells like a slightly aquatic version of Black Aoud. Also, the drydown is largely a metallic-musk affair, with faint traces of the other notes in the composition. If Black Aoud was too strong for you, this may appeal. Other than that, there's not much more to write home about.
Btw, it appears that Montale no longer offers samples (even after purchasing a bottle for a friend). They seem to be using the same excuse as the other houses, such as Guerlain - because the fragrances are exclusive...
Lastly, I noticed another two new-ish releases: Poire has now been officially released under the name Wild Pear (didn't impress me at all - too synthetic). Plus, there's one called Taj, which they claim was once a private release called Aoud Cadesh. I never had the chance to smell it properly but it appears to be closer to the style of their older releases.
Anyway, time to hit those bars and mingle with some beautiful Parisian women...
Yes, it's definitely a different take on Black Aoud but, to be honest, if you love Black Aoud the way it is, there really isn't much point in owing this. It starts out smelling true to the spirit of Black Aoud before the musk kicks in, and this is where it goes wrong for me. I think the patchouli's been greatly reduced to accommodate the musk theme but, merged with the oud note, it smells like a slightly aquatic version of Black Aoud. Also, the drydown is largely a metallic-musk affair, with faint traces of the other notes in the composition. If Black Aoud was too strong for you, this may appeal. Other than that, there's not much more to write home about.
Btw, it appears that Montale no longer offers samples (even after purchasing a bottle for a friend). They seem to be using the same excuse as the other houses, such as Guerlain - because the fragrances are exclusive...
Lastly, I noticed another two new-ish releases: Poire has now been officially released under the name Wild Pear (didn't impress me at all - too synthetic). Plus, there's one called Taj, which they claim was once a private release called Aoud Cadesh. I never had the chance to smell it properly but it appears to be closer to the style of their older releases.
Anyway, time to hit those bars and mingle with some beautiful Parisian women...
