Decided to try a a sample of what many consider to be a hidden gem of fall and winter fragrances.

Ran out of shelf space for my fall/winter collection and have just enough space to add a few more fresh fragrances in time for spring/summer.

Released in 2020 as a standout flanker in the iconic Gentleman line, Givenchy Gentleman Boisée is a masterclass in modern, woody sophistication from the nose of the legendary Olivier Crespwhom not only worked for many of the European designer house, but has also worked with Middle Eastern Houses and done some Niche work too. While other entries in the series (like the EDP or Reserve Privée) lean heavily into powdery iris or boozy notes, Boisée strikes a unique balance between earthy & elegant Think spicey florals mixed with Wood. Its the Iris that stands out wrapped on an almost burning wood to create an amazing contrast. Boisée (French for "wooded") lives up to its name, but it is far from a simple forest scent. It is a Woody Floral Spicy fragrance that feels velvety and smooth rather than sharp. With top notes of Black Pepper, Coriander & Geranium, the opening is a dry, spicy burst. It’s slightly peppery but softened by the geranium, which keeps it from being too aggressive. At its heart, Iris (Orris), Cacao Pod & Cedarwood. This is the soul of the fragrance. That signature Givenchy iris provides a lipstick or powdery texture, but here it is mixed with a dry, bitter cacao. It doesn’t smell like a chocolate bar; it smells more like high-end, unsweetened cocoa powder. Finally the base contains notes of Sandalwood, Burning Wood & Patchouli. The dry down is where the "burning wood" comes in. It provides a subtle, smoky warmth that feels incredibly cozy, and it's grounded by the creaminess of the sandalwood. Despite its beauty, there is a flaw with many of these edp's from Givinchey. They are a lot more restrained than some of their counterparts. Much like the Replica range from Maison Margeila, I sometimes wonder might this have been done on purpose? It beggers belief as too why, but perhaps it's what the perfumer intended? At best you will get 5, maybe 6 hrs on skin before it fades into a skin scent. It won't fill a room. It creates a "scent bubble" about arm's length, making it very safe for the office or close-up dates. Definitely an intimate scent, perfect for a date night. It's there to be discovered, not announced. Definitely a winter scent, but enjoyable none the less.

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Yesterday after more than 1 year gave Tom Ford Noir Extreme EDP a wear. Spicy sweet fragrance that projects decent for the first couple of hours than becomes a decidedly close to the skin scent. Definitely pickup on the warm cardamon, rose and vanilla in this one. Did some physical work at hour 9 and it temporarily amped up the scent but almost immediately toned down. This is an invitation to get someone to lean into you and enjoy the sweetness. Rating 8.8/ 10 My knock is that the performance is weak for the cost on this one. Applied 10 sprays. Today's choice of scent YSL La Nuit de L'Homme Bleu Electrique. Better performance than Noir Extreme. Strong spicy fresh opening with ginger and cardamon the main players Moderate/strong projection for a little over two hours. Enjoy it and already received a couple of compliments. Have another backup bottle I acquired before they became stupid expensive. Will update with final thoughts and ranking.