SOTD: Noir Extreme edp by Tom Ford 03/01/2026

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My First bottle of 2026, picked this up yesterday, it's been on the list for a while and the price was right. That said I also managed to get my nose on the new release of The One parfum. They had no stock yet, just the display bottle which I was allowed to spray away with. Initial thoughts, Wow. It seems to be a deeper, richer, and smoother take on the classic The One DNA. I'm hoping that this is a sign that they have listened and improved the performance issues of the OG.

Anyway back to Noir Extreme, if I was too only ever have 3 Tom Ford fragrances iin my collection it would be Ombre Leather, Black Orchid and of course Noir Extreme. I first got my nose on this last year in a discovery set and fell in love. Well now I got it and nothing has changed. This is an amazing fragrance and a great way to start the year off.

I'm gonna call this what it is, a woody Oriental masterpiece, it's classic, seductive and sophisticated scent that IMO can be worn equally well by man or woman. There is a girl that wears this a lot in my office and you can follow the scent trail in the mornings. Itsvery addictive and recognisable.But can it break into my top 5, let's see. I will say that Sonia Constant certainly gives Alienor Massenet a run for her money as my favourite perfumery with this one.

The opening is a vivid energetic blend of spices and citrus. You'll immediately notice the exotic warmth of Cardamom, Saffron, and Nutmeg, which isbalanced by a s sharp burst of Mandarin and Neroli. This initial phase is like the Spicey and sweet are sparring in the ring for dominance. At its core, the fragrance distinguishes itself with that rather unique Indian Kulfi accord. I don't think I've come across this in a fragrance before? It's an Indian dessert which is paired with Rose Absolute, Jasmine and Orange Blossom, which adds a layer of complexity and a subtle richness. At the base you get one of the most sensual and long-lasting dry downs I've experienced. It starts with that Amber accord which is deep, resinous and warming. Anchored by a rich Sandalwood and a molten, sweet Vanilla ember, leaving a lingering, addictive, and deeply satisfying trail on the skin. I swear this fast creeping up my fragrance charts. It's looking like an New Year's New Entry?

Down to the details first. A solid 8hrs wear. The initial projection is often strong, making a clear statement in the first few hours. As it settles, it moves closer to the skin, becoming a more intimate and alluring scent bubble that is noticeable to those nearby. I could easily wear this every day and not get bored, but at €126 for a we 50ml bottle this will only make an office appearance occasionally. Like my even smaller 30ml of Black Orchid, this will be a special occassion wear. As with most of my collection this is cold weather Gold. Not sure if it would work in any kind of heat? If you enjoy warm spices, gourmand sweetness, and rich amber dry-downs that feel opulent and dressed-up, this fragrance is a must-try. That said, it is with great sadness that I must announce, Boss Bottled Absolu has been knocked out of its well deserved 5th place spot, to be replaced by Noir Extreme.

My Rating: 9.5/10

Scent: 3

Longevity: 3

Sillage: 2.5

Y/N: 1

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