SOTD: 1 Million Lucky by Paco Rabanne: 09/03/2026

🔥

What a week I've had picked up some great ME additions last week, did well at nationals then yesterday I finally came across a bottle of the Elusive Lucky from the 1 Million line. And it came at a bargain price too. If the original 1 Million is a gold bar representing raw excess, 1 Million Lucky is the adrenaline rush of a winning streak at a high-stakes poker table. All joking aside, this 2018 releaase, pivoted away from the heavy cinnamon-leather of the original toward something crunchier & rather enjoyable. It is a creation of Givaudin perfumer Natalie Gracia-Cetto. That's the lady who was co- responsible for Le Male Parfum amongst others. I'd describe it as Nutty, Ozonic & Sweet.Unlike many flankers that just tweak the original, Lucky creates its own identity. It’s built around the contrast of an airy freshness & gourmand richness.

The opening starts with a burst of Plum, Grapefruit & Ozonic notes. It’s watery & bright, but the plum gives it a dark, jammy sweetness that prevents it from feeling like a generic blue fragrance. The heart is where the magic happens. A heavy dose of Hazelnut mixed with Honey & Cedar. It smells like roasted nuts drizzled in syrup. It's warm, crunchy, with a gourmand vibe, without being cloying. As it settles into the drydown, notes of Amberwood, Patchouli & Oakmoss take over. The sweetness remains, but it’s grounded by a masculine, woody backbone that keeps it from smelling like a dessert.

For an edt this performs really well, I'm averaging 6hrs on skin, with a good protection for the first 2 hours, then settles into a noticeable scent bubble. This is a cold Winter fragrance, but you might get away with some spring wear. Also great for nights out. The Hazelnut note is very pleasant & enjoyable. After the og gold bar, I lost interest in the numerous flankers, but this is a really good one to have.

My Rating 7.5/10

Scent 2.5

Longevity 2

Sillage 2

Y/N 1

37 comments