Bourbon Cedar (2017)
by Olivina Men

A release that does what it says on the tin. Olivina's Bourbon Cedar is unsophisticated minimalism done right, a very natural-smelling masculine scent that layers a fresh-cut cedar note over discernible bourbon. It's a combination that works quite well, and there's some not-too-sweet vanilla and smoke in there to fill in the gaps. The late drydown ends up having something of "smoky cola" vibe.

It's no triumph of perfumery, but it wears its rough edges well and makes for an interesting addition to the landscape of contemporary masculine scents. It is, in its own way, an heir to full-bodied 80s masculines like Jacomo de Jacomo, which may be a significantly more complex creation than Bourbon Cedar but still occupies a similar lane.