Gentlemen, I've been on an extended sabbatical, but now is as good a time as ever to finally wake up from my winter hibernation. Tonight's plans in the CA desert called for dinner at a favorite haunt that we've been going to for decades. Nice place, comfort food with table cloths. But the BIG question was what was to be the SOTE. Those that remember will recall that Amouage runs in my veins and I was up for a little Opus XV - King Blue. Afterall, it's been a while since I sprayed that beautiful frag. HOWEVER, after considering the big picture for tonight, it was obvious that I needed something a little brighter, with some citrus and yes, a bit of a crowd-pleaser. So I went back to basics and reviewed my collection of "X-Men" (aka my Xerjoffs), and then my choice seemed obvious; Renaissance. Renaissance is one of the greats. It's Numero Uno for warm weather when you're looking for something bright, fresh, well-blended, high quality with the citrus I was looking for. The opening will blast you with some great lemon and tangerine along with the bergamot. Right off the bat it's just wonderful. Wonderful! On the dry-down there's a hint of mint. I don't mean like Torino 21 type of mint or a mojito type of mint. I mean a mint that is subtle and sublime. The fragrance is beautiful. There's no screechiness or "learning curve". It's just a wonderful experience with a nice projection and sillage. The restauranteur complimented me after following me to my table. This was no patronizing compliment. The tone in his voice and the look in his eye said it all. Is this blind-buy safe? I don't know... But I WILL say that if you're thinking about Xerjoff, I suggest Renaissance for the warm weather and Naxos when things cool down a bit. I think that's the way to approach this House if you're curious. Overall rating: 9.0 / 10.0, all day long.

I spent a wonderful evening with my family cheering on the San Antonio Spurs during one of their final games before the playoffs. As they begin their pursuit of a sixth championship ring, I wore one of my favorite fragrances: Torino 21. Its blend of lemon and mint is, in my opinion, one of the best scents in its category and was the perfect choice for the occasion.

It’s fast sunday and church today. Went with a personal favorite of mine, from the House of Chanel, specifically their Les Exclusifs line. It’s a classic smelling fragrance with a bold, timeless appeal. The line isn’t for everyone because they aren’t as modern focused and mass appealing as Bleu de Chanel or Allure Homme, but i think that’s what makes it special. It’s a powdery, spicy, amber scent, perfect for formal occasions. Longevity is fantastic, projection moderate, which fits scenarios like these even better. The ultimate scent for something noticeable but not overpowering. The opening notes are a powdery bitter orange and neroli blend, which immediately connects to a heart of strong patchouli, orris, and rose. Patchouli is dominant here, and acts as a fantastic, smoky bridge to the base, a blend of woods, incense, resins, and a unique note of white chocolate. Out of all the chanel’s i’ve tried, this is a personal favorite of mine. I like Coco, Platinum Egoiste, and I love Bleu de Chanel Parfum, mainly because it’s a more mature, sophisticated take on the Bleu line. I tried L’exclusif and found it a bit underwhelming for such a price. Enjoyed it, but still prefer the development of the Parfum. Coromandel combines the aspects i like of both fragrances, and gives it a classic, timeless appeal. This one did not disappoint at all. Blind buy safe? not so much, but it’s certainly signature scent worthy. Have i found this as a new signature? I’m still debating, but nonetheless, i love it.