Gentlemen, following up on my last post about "The Collection"—let’s talk about the one that really surprised me: Confident Oud. The official breakdown claims only two notes: Bran and Agarwood (Oud). Personally, I’m calling BS on that. There is way more going on here. To my nose, I’m definitely picking up sandalwood, pepper, and a touch of tonka bean or vanilla in the dry down. I’ll be the first to admit I don’t know exactly what "real" raw oud smells like, but this doesn't resemble the typical "oud" notes found in my other fragrances if any. This is what I would call a "dry boozy" scent. It isn't syrupy or dessert-like; it’s rugged and refined. This could have been part of @Renato Carotti booze wars. • The Opening: It starts with a literal shot of whiskey neat. It’s boozy, sharp, and commanding right out of the gate. • The Mid & Dry Down: Once the initial pour settles, you get a beautiful smoky, woody accord. Think of a charred whiskey barrel with just a tiny hint of sweetness peaking through. A Tobacco Oud Alternative? Confident Oud is very reminiscent of the discontinued Tom Ford Tobacco Oud. The Difference: Where the Tom Ford has more of a cigar or incense vibe in the opening, the Boss is more about that charred barrel woodiness. It’s slightly sweeter than the TF, but only just. If you never had the chance to try Tobacco Oud, this will definitely get you there. Performance & Versatility • Longevity: Excellent, giving me 8+ hours. • Projection: Solid for the first 3 hours before staying closer to the skin. This is not for the younger crowd. The booziness here isn't like Angels' Share—the sweetness is almost non-existent. This is definitely for the 30+ crowd. This is a versatile heavy-hitter. You can dress it up for a high-end dinner or dress it down for a night at the cigar lounge. Let me know your thoughts or if any of you have had a chance to get your nose on this one!

"Perfumery is learned through discipline.” — Alberto Morillas, Master Perfumer (paraphrased) Talent opens the door, but routine keeps you inside. Showing up daily beats waiting for inspiration. Boring habits build beautiful things. Keep moving forward, Enjoy the #Journey

(5) Xerjoff Tony Iommi Monkey Special vs. (2) Initio Side Effect This final isn’t about sweet booziness alone, it’s about how you indulge! Monkey Special brings boozy swagger, leathered confidence, and attitude that doesn’t ask permission. Side Effect counters with heat, spice, and temptation, pulling you in with a slow, deliberate seduction. This is indulgence with edge versus indulgence with intent and only one defines what The Drinker really stands for. What say you?

(1) Maison Martin Margiela Jazz Club vs (2) Amouage Interlude Man This final isn’t about the drink, it’s about the night. Jazz Club captures the quieter moment, where rum-soaked woods and tobacco cling to the air and nothing needs to be said. Interlude Man fills the room with smoke, incense, and aftermath, heavy and immersive like the bar after last call. It’s atmosphere versus familiarity, and the Barfly stays for one more round. What say you?

“Luxury is sincerity.” — Brunello Cucinelli, Creative Director When intention is real, people can tell. Polish without purpose never holds up long-term. Authenticity ages better than hype! Keep moving forward, Enjoy the #Journey