Today's SOTD is my first-ever sampling of Bvlgari Man in Black. I've frequently seen this described as a bold, intense fragrance, so I was expecting something that would come roaring out of the atomizer. Surprisingly, it seems considerably more subdued on my skin. But the opening is very nice. Tobacco, rum, and spices create a warm, boozy introduction, with leather, tonka bean, and guaiac wood underneath adding some sweetness and depth. It's rich without being overwhelming, and certainly feels like a fragrance designed for cooler weather. The real question is what happens from here. Since this is my first wearing, I want to pay particular attention to how it develops through the drydown—and then give it several more full wears before making any decisions about a bottle. It also has the misfortune of arriving only a couple of days after I revisited Parfums de Marly Herod. As a tobacco fragrance, Man in Black isn't playing in Herod's league for me—at least not yet. Herod's tobacco immediately grabbed my attention, while the vanilla and spices blended beautifully around it. Man in Black is pleasant so far, but it hasn't produced that same reaction. Still, that's why I bought samples instead of bottles. Current status: Interesting first impression. Keep testing, especially through the drydown—but Herod remains comfortably ahead in the tobacco-fragrance race.

I have now worn all of my Shaghaf frags, but Im not done with Swiss Arabian yet... today is my 1st try from the "Heritage Collection" Tobacco 01 I honestly had no idea what to expect. This was a true blind buy. I read no reviews. The only research i did was look at a note breakdown This was a pleasant surprise from spray 1. Its sweet, fruity, dark, deep and complex. The plum and apple adds a brightness to the darkness of the tobacco. Very well balanced. This smells expensive. Its more niche smelling than anything from the Shaghaf line. It seems heavier than other Swiss Arabian frags, and stays closer to your body. Longevity is well above average Way too sweet and rich for summer, but perfect for winter. Slightly more masculine, but ladies could enjoy this one too This is my new favorite from Swiss Arabian. (And i only bought it because Incense 01 was sold out.) 8.5/10

I was out shopping for my daughter’s homecoming dress and just happened to pass by the counter where they had a display up for John Varvatos. I stopped and tried a few and really liked XX elixir. Has a rich deep leather smell and then in a bit spicy. I feel like it’s a good addition for fall and winter. It’s not overpowering so I can wear it to work but it’s powerful enough that it’ll get noticed.