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An Affordable Hidden Jewel
I am on the record for saying that I dislike oud fragrances, as it usually smells horrible on my skin. That said, I formed that opinion years ago.
I did a test run on a synthetic oud, and see how it would work on me. While looking around, I stumbled upon Nu Parfums’ Black is Black: Modern Oud.
With a price tag lower than 20.00 USD (and sometimes, less than 10.00 USD), and based on reviewers' recommendations on Parfumo and retail websites, I did a blind buy. I already wrote an initial impression, but now that I have a few usages, I can write a complete review.
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The overall scent profile of Modern Oud is a combination of three factors. A combination of oud and patchouli is the first factor. The second factor is a spicy touch of cinnamon. The third factor is the strongest; a familiar powdery combination of lavender, musk, and amber.
That last factor normally makes a fragrance lean towards unisex usage, but this fragrance is masculine. A woman without confidence would struggle to wear this. However, a woman with confidence can absolutely make this fragrance shine to her benefit.
Also, I will say that if someone adds the correct amounts of vanilla, tonka bean, and mint to Modern Oud (and take away the oud), this fragrance would become a very close clone of a mid-1990s classic—Jean Paul Gaultier’s Le Mâle. People who like Le Mâle, but want an option without the sweetness, may enjoy this fragrance.
That said big critique I have about Modern Oud is that the fragrance is linear. Outside of the light citrus top note (which disappears quickly), the scent is the same for the entire duration. People who want a consistent smell will appreciate that, but a fragrance enthusiast or an artisan would be disappointed.
Another critique, albeit a minor one, is that this feels like a fragrance for middle age and older gentlemen. The lack of sweetness and freshness notable in modern fragrances may turn much of the younger crowd (i.e.: teens and college students) away.
However, despite my critiques, the smell is fantastic. I normally dislike oud and musk as fragrance notes; heavy amounts make the smell unbearable. However, Modern Oud gets the right amounts of both for my nose. Both are noticeable, but they do not overpower my nose.
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I have mixed opinions about the bottle of Modern Oud (most aspects will probably include the entire Black is Black line because of the similarities.)
On one hand, the shape of the bottle is horizontal with a slight curve, giving it an uncommon style and looks like it belongs in a collection. The translucent dark bottle also adds some decadence, and the labeling looks like metal plating (despite its plastic feel).
However, I am a hard believer in function over style, and this is where Modern Oud flops.
Sometimes when pulling the cap off the bottle, I notice the base keeping the atomizer in place moves around. I am afraid of the base coming off and the scent juice flying over the place if I pull off the cap too hard.
I normally do not recommend leaving the cap off a fragrance (and loathe it when I must switch between atomizers and a cap on a bottle), but I am making an exception here.
The bottle looks like something I would not expect from an affordable fragrance. However, the bottle functionality confirms why the fragrance is affordable.
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In terms of performance, Modern Oud puts in a solid effort for an eau de toilette.
Modern Oud lasts about eight hours on my skin at room temperature, which is a solid performance that can last an entire workday, or get through a full night. Like most eau de toilettes, it will not last through the day and night.
In terms of performance and sillage, Modern Oud will get attention as you walk by a person, or if you stay in the same spot long enough. (With the sillage trail being stronger than projection.) However, do not expect the fragrance to fill up the room and announce your presence.
----
In terms of social scenarios, Modern Oud lacks versatility and is a situational fragrance. Using it in the right situation will do wonders.
However, let's first talk about how NOT to use Modern Oud.
Rule #1: Do not use Modern Oud in the gym before or during a workout. The combination of oud, musk, and body odor is a crime against humanity, and you will almost certainly smell disgusting.
Rule #2: Modern Oud is not a daytime summer or a tropical weather fragrance because of the musk. It will become cloying and nauseating in high heat.
Rule #3: Do not spray this heavily under any circumstances. An overdose of Oud and Musk is asking for someone to get nauseated.
If you keep rules #2 and #3 in mind, the fragrance will work fine in an office or school environment, as someone can do far worse. Also, thanks to its performance in cooler weather, it is also a solid option as a mild or cold weather fragrance.
However, Modern Oud is like a star—it shines the brightest at night. Relaxing at home and meditating to wind down the day? Going to a restaurant with a date, or a party with a group of friends? Getting ready to heat the night with an intimate moment? Modern Oud would be a fantastic choice in those scenarios.
----
Nu Parfums Modern Oud is an easy introduction to oud as part of a fragrance if you are on a budget and do not live in an area where fragrance sampling comes easy.
That said, like any fragrance, it is not for everyone. If you are someone who likes complexity in fragrances or needs something for the summer, Modern Oud is not for you.
However, if you are looking for a simple evening fragrance that will last through the evening, and something that stands out from the trend of masculine yet sweet fragrances, Modern Oud may be a surprise treasure at an affordable price. (Just be careful with the bottle.)
I did a test run on a synthetic oud, and see how it would work on me. While looking around, I stumbled upon Nu Parfums’ Black is Black: Modern Oud.
With a price tag lower than 20.00 USD (and sometimes, less than 10.00 USD), and based on reviewers' recommendations on Parfumo and retail websites, I did a blind buy. I already wrote an initial impression, but now that I have a few usages, I can write a complete review.
----
The overall scent profile of Modern Oud is a combination of three factors. A combination of oud and patchouli is the first factor. The second factor is a spicy touch of cinnamon. The third factor is the strongest; a familiar powdery combination of lavender, musk, and amber.
That last factor normally makes a fragrance lean towards unisex usage, but this fragrance is masculine. A woman without confidence would struggle to wear this. However, a woman with confidence can absolutely make this fragrance shine to her benefit.
Also, I will say that if someone adds the correct amounts of vanilla, tonka bean, and mint to Modern Oud (and take away the oud), this fragrance would become a very close clone of a mid-1990s classic—Jean Paul Gaultier’s Le Mâle. People who like Le Mâle, but want an option without the sweetness, may enjoy this fragrance.
That said big critique I have about Modern Oud is that the fragrance is linear. Outside of the light citrus top note (which disappears quickly), the scent is the same for the entire duration. People who want a consistent smell will appreciate that, but a fragrance enthusiast or an artisan would be disappointed.
Another critique, albeit a minor one, is that this feels like a fragrance for middle age and older gentlemen. The lack of sweetness and freshness notable in modern fragrances may turn much of the younger crowd (i.e.: teens and college students) away.
However, despite my critiques, the smell is fantastic. I normally dislike oud and musk as fragrance notes; heavy amounts make the smell unbearable. However, Modern Oud gets the right amounts of both for my nose. Both are noticeable, but they do not overpower my nose.
----
I have mixed opinions about the bottle of Modern Oud (most aspects will probably include the entire Black is Black line because of the similarities.)
On one hand, the shape of the bottle is horizontal with a slight curve, giving it an uncommon style and looks like it belongs in a collection. The translucent dark bottle also adds some decadence, and the labeling looks like metal plating (despite its plastic feel).
However, I am a hard believer in function over style, and this is where Modern Oud flops.
Sometimes when pulling the cap off the bottle, I notice the base keeping the atomizer in place moves around. I am afraid of the base coming off and the scent juice flying over the place if I pull off the cap too hard.
I normally do not recommend leaving the cap off a fragrance (and loathe it when I must switch between atomizers and a cap on a bottle), but I am making an exception here.
The bottle looks like something I would not expect from an affordable fragrance. However, the bottle functionality confirms why the fragrance is affordable.
----
In terms of performance, Modern Oud puts in a solid effort for an eau de toilette.
Modern Oud lasts about eight hours on my skin at room temperature, which is a solid performance that can last an entire workday, or get through a full night. Like most eau de toilettes, it will not last through the day and night.
In terms of performance and sillage, Modern Oud will get attention as you walk by a person, or if you stay in the same spot long enough. (With the sillage trail being stronger than projection.) However, do not expect the fragrance to fill up the room and announce your presence.
----
In terms of social scenarios, Modern Oud lacks versatility and is a situational fragrance. Using it in the right situation will do wonders.
However, let's first talk about how NOT to use Modern Oud.
Rule #1: Do not use Modern Oud in the gym before or during a workout. The combination of oud, musk, and body odor is a crime against humanity, and you will almost certainly smell disgusting.
Rule #2: Modern Oud is not a daytime summer or a tropical weather fragrance because of the musk. It will become cloying and nauseating in high heat.
Rule #3: Do not spray this heavily under any circumstances. An overdose of Oud and Musk is asking for someone to get nauseated.
If you keep rules #2 and #3 in mind, the fragrance will work fine in an office or school environment, as someone can do far worse. Also, thanks to its performance in cooler weather, it is also a solid option as a mild or cold weather fragrance.
However, Modern Oud is like a star—it shines the brightest at night. Relaxing at home and meditating to wind down the day? Going to a restaurant with a date, or a party with a group of friends? Getting ready to heat the night with an intimate moment? Modern Oud would be a fantastic choice in those scenarios.
----
Nu Parfums Modern Oud is an easy introduction to oud as part of a fragrance if you are on a budget and do not live in an area where fragrance sampling comes easy.
That said, like any fragrance, it is not for everyone. If you are someone who likes complexity in fragrances or needs something for the summer, Modern Oud is not for you.
However, if you are looking for a simple evening fragrance that will last through the evening, and something that stands out from the trend of masculine yet sweet fragrances, Modern Oud may be a surprise treasure at an affordable price. (Just be careful with the bottle.)
1 Comment
At the Office or in the Sheets, this Scent is a Treat!
I had previously purchased Silver Scent from Jacques Bogart. It was a solid fragrance with outstanding performance and unique elements that made it stand out at the affordable price range.
Following my success with Silver Scent, I thought about purchasing another Jacques Bogart scent. Initially, I leaned towards One Man Show or one of the Silver Scent flankers. However, Santana Bay was my choice for this round.
With scant information or reviews about the fragrance, this was a blind purchase.
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Santana Bay wastes no time and opens with a fruity/citrus opening, combining bergamot and pineapple with a touch of spiciness from a cardamon note. While that is nothing extraordinary or artistic, one cannot deny the fragrance has an alluring opening.
As the scent fades into the heart and base notes, it becomes a powdery and sweet blend that smells clean. The powder is no doubt from the lavender and cistus heart notes, while the vanilla in the base note provides the smooth sweetness. There is also a hint of woods and freshness in the fragrance, which basically combines cedarwood and vetiver in the base note.
The overall scent profile is fantastic and is not something I would have expected from an affordable fragrance. The feel of the fragrance is a confident man shifting from the end of the workweek and preparing for a weekend of fun and good times.
Santana Bay is masculine and sensual, but the scent gives a subtle freshness in the heart and base note that a woman can use with relative ease.
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That said, Santana Bay has a profile that is quite familiar to some people.
Take away the pineapple in the opening and the vanilla in the base note, then add a touch of ginger in the opening.
Do that, and Santana Bay becomes YSL’s La Nuit De L’Homme Bleu Electrique, which is insanely difficult to find in retailers.
Normally, I dislike comparing scents. However, I am making an exception because Bleu Electrique is becoming difficult to find. While Santana Bay is not a 100% match, it is close enough to Bleu Electrique that Santana Bay can hold the line until (or if) YSL reissues the fragrance.
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For the bottle artisans, Santana Bay is nothing special. The bottle has an embossed ship on the back that looks okay, and the atomizer is like many other Jacques Bogart fragrances. (i.e., press hard to get a solid spray, or you may get a stream instead.)
That said, while Santana Bay will not be an artistic centerpiece for a fragrance collection, a person will not need to hide it in a drawer or closet out of embarrassment.
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In terms of performance, Santana Bay is great!
The fragrance lasts on my skin for eight hours, which is significantly above average for an eau de toilette. Like most eau de toilettes with solid performance, it can get a person through a workday or a long evening, but not both without a respray.
Sillage and projection are above average as well. It is not loud enough to announce your presence in a room. However, people that you pass will notice the fragrance, and the scent can linger in the air for a few minutes after you leave a room.
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In terms of social scenarios, Santana Bay is quite a versatile fragrance that can work in any season or climate. It is a reliable daily fragrance; spray it and do not think twice.
The citrus and powdery notes make the fragrance safe for the office, and possibly the gym (despite the vetiver note in the fragrance, which is super rare).
The scent is soft enough for leisure, whether you opt to read a book, go on a long drive, or jog for a few miles.
The scent can act as a scent for an evening out with friends, or a scent for a party, club, or any place with a ton of people. The only place where it would not fit in is at a formal gathering, where one may want to go with something with less sweetness.
However, as you probably noted, I said Santana Bay has a sensual feeling. It is a fantastic date night fragrance. The sweet smell is nothing unique, but it is smooth and not explosively sweet, drawing people in, and inviting them to move closer.
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Jacques Bogart’s Santana Bay is a superb fragrance! For the price point, it performs beyond expectations, and the smell is fantastic and alluring.
That said, like any fragrance, it is not for everyone. People looking for originality (as there are similarities to the YSL La Nuit De L’Homme line), or people who dislike the trend of citrusy or sweet scents, should pass, as the disappointment is like Thanos in Infinity War—inevitable.
People looking for a citrusy/fresh scent with some sweetness that has the versatility for any situation, season, or time may like this fragrance. Likewise, anyone that is looking for a solid signature fragrance in an affordable price range may find this amazing.
Following my success with Silver Scent, I thought about purchasing another Jacques Bogart scent. Initially, I leaned towards One Man Show or one of the Silver Scent flankers. However, Santana Bay was my choice for this round.
With scant information or reviews about the fragrance, this was a blind purchase.
----
Santana Bay wastes no time and opens with a fruity/citrus opening, combining bergamot and pineapple with a touch of spiciness from a cardamon note. While that is nothing extraordinary or artistic, one cannot deny the fragrance has an alluring opening.
As the scent fades into the heart and base notes, it becomes a powdery and sweet blend that smells clean. The powder is no doubt from the lavender and cistus heart notes, while the vanilla in the base note provides the smooth sweetness. There is also a hint of woods and freshness in the fragrance, which basically combines cedarwood and vetiver in the base note.
The overall scent profile is fantastic and is not something I would have expected from an affordable fragrance. The feel of the fragrance is a confident man shifting from the end of the workweek and preparing for a weekend of fun and good times.
Santana Bay is masculine and sensual, but the scent gives a subtle freshness in the heart and base note that a woman can use with relative ease.
----
That said, Santana Bay has a profile that is quite familiar to some people.
Take away the pineapple in the opening and the vanilla in the base note, then add a touch of ginger in the opening.
Do that, and Santana Bay becomes YSL’s La Nuit De L’Homme Bleu Electrique, which is insanely difficult to find in retailers.
Normally, I dislike comparing scents. However, I am making an exception because Bleu Electrique is becoming difficult to find. While Santana Bay is not a 100% match, it is close enough to Bleu Electrique that Santana Bay can hold the line until (or if) YSL reissues the fragrance.
----
For the bottle artisans, Santana Bay is nothing special. The bottle has an embossed ship on the back that looks okay, and the atomizer is like many other Jacques Bogart fragrances. (i.e., press hard to get a solid spray, or you may get a stream instead.)
That said, while Santana Bay will not be an artistic centerpiece for a fragrance collection, a person will not need to hide it in a drawer or closet out of embarrassment.
----
In terms of performance, Santana Bay is great!
The fragrance lasts on my skin for eight hours, which is significantly above average for an eau de toilette. Like most eau de toilettes with solid performance, it can get a person through a workday or a long evening, but not both without a respray.
Sillage and projection are above average as well. It is not loud enough to announce your presence in a room. However, people that you pass will notice the fragrance, and the scent can linger in the air for a few minutes after you leave a room.
----
In terms of social scenarios, Santana Bay is quite a versatile fragrance that can work in any season or climate. It is a reliable daily fragrance; spray it and do not think twice.
The citrus and powdery notes make the fragrance safe for the office, and possibly the gym (despite the vetiver note in the fragrance, which is super rare).
The scent is soft enough for leisure, whether you opt to read a book, go on a long drive, or jog for a few miles.
The scent can act as a scent for an evening out with friends, or a scent for a party, club, or any place with a ton of people. The only place where it would not fit in is at a formal gathering, where one may want to go with something with less sweetness.
However, as you probably noted, I said Santana Bay has a sensual feeling. It is a fantastic date night fragrance. The sweet smell is nothing unique, but it is smooth and not explosively sweet, drawing people in, and inviting them to move closer.
----
Jacques Bogart’s Santana Bay is a superb fragrance! For the price point, it performs beyond expectations, and the smell is fantastic and alluring.
That said, like any fragrance, it is not for everyone. People looking for originality (as there are similarities to the YSL La Nuit De L’Homme line), or people who dislike the trend of citrusy or sweet scents, should pass, as the disappointment is like Thanos in Infinity War—inevitable.
People looking for a citrusy/fresh scent with some sweetness that has the versatility for any situation, season, or time may like this fragrance. Likewise, anyone that is looking for a solid signature fragrance in an affordable price range may find this amazing.
A Caribbean Night
While researching Puig as a company, I came across Adolfo Dominguez, a fashion brand I am not familiar with, and apparently owns a fragrance line.
Pricing-wise, the fragrance line is a step up from familiar Puig affordable brands such as Bennington, Antonio Banderas, and the fragrance Quorum, but significantly cheaper than Puig’s designer brands such as Paco Rabanne, Carolina Herrera, Jean-Paul Gaultier, and Prada.
After looking at the fragrance notes on Parfumo, I blind purchased Bambú Radiant Edition Hombre from the Adolfo Dominguez line to see if it was worth it.
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Bambú REH opens with a citrusy/fruity note (bergamot and pineapple, and possibly pomelo) that also has a slightly woody feel, which is probably the bamboo note. It is a smell reminiscent of a tropical climate in the Caribbean.
As the fragrance dries down and transitions into the heart and base notes, it becomes a sweeter fragrance with a hint of spice and booze. I perceive the liquorice and rum notes, which are strong. I also sense a combination of clover and another spice I am not familiar with. However, the scent continues to give Caribbean vibes.
The scent also maintains the wood aspects from the opening, with help from vetiver and patchouli in the base notes, and possibly the oud in the heart note.
In terms of gender for the fragrance, Bambú REH is a masculine scent at the top note, but fades to a more unisex scent with the heart and base note thanks to the potency of the liquorice note.
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I must make a note about the bottle. On the positive side, I love the gradient from red to orange to clear. It would look great on a display for people using affordable fragrances.
The cap is also tight. Normally, that is a good thing for sealing the fragrance. However, one must pull harder than normal to remove the cap. If one is not prepared, the cap can fly off somewhere.
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In terms of performance, Bambú REH does not disappoint.
With longevity, the fragrance lasts about seven hours on my skin. That is above typical standards on my skin for an eau de toilette. Enough to get through a day of errands or (preferably) an evening out with a lady. However, do not expect this to power through an entire day.
With sillage and projection, it will not announce your presence in a room unless someone sprays it liberally. However, a person should notice the scent as they walk by you (or vice versa) with two or three spritzes.
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In terms of social scenarios, Bambú REH is not exactly versatile, but it shines in certain social situations.
As a sweet smell with a hint of rum, I do not recommend it for the workplace, unless you want accusations of drinking on the job by coworkers and bosses. Also, because of the sweetness, people who are into older male fragrances are more likely to dislike it. (However, teenagers and younger men are likely to appreciate this fragrance as a gift.)
Likewise, because of the oud, liquorice, and vetiver, it is a crime against humanity to use this fragrance for the gym or on a sizzling summer day (despite the Caribbean feel).
That said, in moderate to warm weather, and after sunset, Bambú RE puts in serious work. It also works well in the cold weather, as the fragrance feels warm.
It is a tranquil evening fragrance to wind down the day and relax before calling it a night.
However, it has better use on a night out, whether going to a bar, restaurant or a party with a group of friends, or a date night with a significant other or spouse. The projection will get attention, but the fragrance is soft and calm enough to not nauseate anyone.
Keep in mind that there are many sweet scents for a date night, which is a typical scenario in 2022 for younger men, which leads to good news and bad news.
The good news? Bambú REH is unique enough that no one should compare it to any popular male scent such as Eros and Sauvage. (And thus, avoid the “You smell like my brother/father/ex-lover” line.)
The bad news? The strong liquorice note may remind people of feminine fragrances such as Hypnotic Poison (minus the floral notes). This might get a “You smell like my sister” response, especially if the person cannot pick up the vetiver and patchouli notes.
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Overall, I am happy with this blind buy. Bambú Radiant Edition Hombre delivers a fun scent that is an amazing complementary aspect for a tranquil and peaceful personality. If this is the vibe Adolfo Dominguez is trying to deliver with their fashion, they succeeded with this fragrance.
That said, this is not a fragrance for everyone. If you dislike sweet scents, want something definitively masculine, or need a fragrance with more versatility, purchasing Bambú REH will end with a massive disappointment. Likewise, using this as an office or gym scent is asking for potential ridicule because of the rum and vetiver note, respectively.
However, if you are looking for an evening or date night scent, or just want a fragrance with a relaxing vibe, consider purchasing this fragrance. With discounters selling it for less than $40.00, it is a good purchase for people seeking an affordable fragrance that is unique enough to stand out in a crowd of sweet male fragrances.
Pricing-wise, the fragrance line is a step up from familiar Puig affordable brands such as Bennington, Antonio Banderas, and the fragrance Quorum, but significantly cheaper than Puig’s designer brands such as Paco Rabanne, Carolina Herrera, Jean-Paul Gaultier, and Prada.
After looking at the fragrance notes on Parfumo, I blind purchased Bambú Radiant Edition Hombre from the Adolfo Dominguez line to see if it was worth it.
----
Bambú REH opens with a citrusy/fruity note (bergamot and pineapple, and possibly pomelo) that also has a slightly woody feel, which is probably the bamboo note. It is a smell reminiscent of a tropical climate in the Caribbean.
As the fragrance dries down and transitions into the heart and base notes, it becomes a sweeter fragrance with a hint of spice and booze. I perceive the liquorice and rum notes, which are strong. I also sense a combination of clover and another spice I am not familiar with. However, the scent continues to give Caribbean vibes.
The scent also maintains the wood aspects from the opening, with help from vetiver and patchouli in the base notes, and possibly the oud in the heart note.
In terms of gender for the fragrance, Bambú REH is a masculine scent at the top note, but fades to a more unisex scent with the heart and base note thanks to the potency of the liquorice note.
----
I must make a note about the bottle. On the positive side, I love the gradient from red to orange to clear. It would look great on a display for people using affordable fragrances.
The cap is also tight. Normally, that is a good thing for sealing the fragrance. However, one must pull harder than normal to remove the cap. If one is not prepared, the cap can fly off somewhere.
----
In terms of performance, Bambú REH does not disappoint.
With longevity, the fragrance lasts about seven hours on my skin. That is above typical standards on my skin for an eau de toilette. Enough to get through a day of errands or (preferably) an evening out with a lady. However, do not expect this to power through an entire day.
With sillage and projection, it will not announce your presence in a room unless someone sprays it liberally. However, a person should notice the scent as they walk by you (or vice versa) with two or three spritzes.
----
In terms of social scenarios, Bambú REH is not exactly versatile, but it shines in certain social situations.
As a sweet smell with a hint of rum, I do not recommend it for the workplace, unless you want accusations of drinking on the job by coworkers and bosses. Also, because of the sweetness, people who are into older male fragrances are more likely to dislike it. (However, teenagers and younger men are likely to appreciate this fragrance as a gift.)
Likewise, because of the oud, liquorice, and vetiver, it is a crime against humanity to use this fragrance for the gym or on a sizzling summer day (despite the Caribbean feel).
That said, in moderate to warm weather, and after sunset, Bambú RE puts in serious work. It also works well in the cold weather, as the fragrance feels warm.
It is a tranquil evening fragrance to wind down the day and relax before calling it a night.
However, it has better use on a night out, whether going to a bar, restaurant or a party with a group of friends, or a date night with a significant other or spouse. The projection will get attention, but the fragrance is soft and calm enough to not nauseate anyone.
Keep in mind that there are many sweet scents for a date night, which is a typical scenario in 2022 for younger men, which leads to good news and bad news.
The good news? Bambú REH is unique enough that no one should compare it to any popular male scent such as Eros and Sauvage. (And thus, avoid the “You smell like my brother/father/ex-lover” line.)
The bad news? The strong liquorice note may remind people of feminine fragrances such as Hypnotic Poison (minus the floral notes). This might get a “You smell like my sister” response, especially if the person cannot pick up the vetiver and patchouli notes.
----
Overall, I am happy with this blind buy. Bambú Radiant Edition Hombre delivers a fun scent that is an amazing complementary aspect for a tranquil and peaceful personality. If this is the vibe Adolfo Dominguez is trying to deliver with their fashion, they succeeded with this fragrance.
That said, this is not a fragrance for everyone. If you dislike sweet scents, want something definitively masculine, or need a fragrance with more versatility, purchasing Bambú REH will end with a massive disappointment. Likewise, using this as an office or gym scent is asking for potential ridicule because of the rum and vetiver note, respectively.
However, if you are looking for an evening or date night scent, or just want a fragrance with a relaxing vibe, consider purchasing this fragrance. With discounters selling it for less than $40.00, it is a good purchase for people seeking an affordable fragrance that is unique enough to stand out in a crowd of sweet male fragrances.
The Hypetrain Going at Sonic Speed
If you are reading this review in 2022, you are curious about the hype behind Bentley for Men Intense. Multiple YouTube channels praise the fragrance. Several forums on the internet speak positively about the fragrance.
The question is, is Intense worth adding to a collection?
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The fragrance starts with an opening that is a spicy yet smooth combination of black pepper and frankincense. As it dances with the leather heart note, and the woody base notes, the smell evokes an image reminiscent of an interior of a new luxury car with comfortable leather seats. (Wait a minute …) However, despite numerous mentions of booze, I do not pick that up at all.
The fragrance is not complex, so it disappoints artisans. However, it does not take away from the fact that it smells good, especially if you love leather as a smell. The scent goes against the trend of sweet smells, making it stand out more in the crowd as unique.
Also, while leather is a masculine scent for most people, I will also say that if a woman wore this fragrance, she would turn heads, and would make her seem badass if she wears the fragrance with confidence.
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In terms of performance, Bentley for Men Intense is a durable fragrance that has incredible performance.
The sillage and projection have a moderate range. Intense will not permeate a room upon entry, but it turns the heads of anyone passing by within walking distance.
That said, there is longevity.
Intense lasted on my skin beyond 12 hours, with a strong projection during the first three. The insane part about the fragrance is that I took a shower and could still smell the fragrance. I needed to shower again to make sure the smell dissipated.
Apply this once and the scent will last the entire day, and possibly into the next day. That would be an impressive performance for a parfum—Bentley for Men Intense is an eau de parfum!
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In terms of social scenarios, Bentley Intense for men is more of a situational fragrance, but it has some versatility.
I am skeptical about using it in the workplace. It can work in a non-physical setting (e.g.: a desk or workstation), but may not if physical labor is involved (e.g.: factories, warehouses, etc.). Keep that in mind if you are involved with the public regularly.
I also would not try it in the gym. I do not think Intense will reach crimes against humanity territory thanks to the sage notes, but a leathery and woody fragrance rarely ends well during and after a workout.
That said leather on a hot sunny day is a terrible idea. The same applies to leathery scents — wait until the sun goes down in the summer before using this fragrance.
That said, when the sun goes down, regardless of the season, Intense shows its true capabilities. In one scenario, you are at home winding down the day alone and preparing for the next day. The smell would fit the mood, as it is cozy and relaxing.
In another scenario, you are out with friends, going to a restaurant or a club. The smell projects, and will grab some attention from anyone that notices, but blends in enough that it is not annoying.
Alternatively, you can be on a date of any kind, and the fragrance will work, whether it is the first date or an anniversary date with a significant other or spouse. The scent is cozy and warm.
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Overall, Bentley for Men Intense was an underrated gem at the time of release in 2013.
However, as people discovered it, people saw how amazing and different the fragrance was, along with the outstanding performance. Now it is the darling of forums and fragrance videos.
Does it deserve the attention it is receiving? Mostly, yes. I think there are better leather scents, but not at the affordable price point.
The only negative points I have about Intense are it does not work well in the summer, is a questionable choice for an active lifestyle because of the prominent leather note, and is not complex enough for those seeking fragrances for artistic purposes. That is not unusual, and I have said worse things about other fragrances.
However, for people seeking a unique fragrance, a solid leather aroma to add to an affordable collection, or a quality scent with impressive performance, Bentley for Men Intense gets the job done, and at an affordable price. (Although the price is rising because of the hype.)
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Edited on 04/18/2022: I incorrectly called Bentley For Men Intense an eau de toilette. The fragrance is an eau de parfum.
The question is, is Intense worth adding to a collection?
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The fragrance starts with an opening that is a spicy yet smooth combination of black pepper and frankincense. As it dances with the leather heart note, and the woody base notes, the smell evokes an image reminiscent of an interior of a new luxury car with comfortable leather seats. (Wait a minute …) However, despite numerous mentions of booze, I do not pick that up at all.
The fragrance is not complex, so it disappoints artisans. However, it does not take away from the fact that it smells good, especially if you love leather as a smell. The scent goes against the trend of sweet smells, making it stand out more in the crowd as unique.
Also, while leather is a masculine scent for most people, I will also say that if a woman wore this fragrance, she would turn heads, and would make her seem badass if she wears the fragrance with confidence.
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In terms of performance, Bentley for Men Intense is a durable fragrance that has incredible performance.
The sillage and projection have a moderate range. Intense will not permeate a room upon entry, but it turns the heads of anyone passing by within walking distance.
That said, there is longevity.
Intense lasted on my skin beyond 12 hours, with a strong projection during the first three. The insane part about the fragrance is that I took a shower and could still smell the fragrance. I needed to shower again to make sure the smell dissipated.
Apply this once and the scent will last the entire day, and possibly into the next day. That would be an impressive performance for a parfum—Bentley for Men Intense is an eau de parfum!
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In terms of social scenarios, Bentley Intense for men is more of a situational fragrance, but it has some versatility.
I am skeptical about using it in the workplace. It can work in a non-physical setting (e.g.: a desk or workstation), but may not if physical labor is involved (e.g.: factories, warehouses, etc.). Keep that in mind if you are involved with the public regularly.
I also would not try it in the gym. I do not think Intense will reach crimes against humanity territory thanks to the sage notes, but a leathery and woody fragrance rarely ends well during and after a workout.
That said leather on a hot sunny day is a terrible idea. The same applies to leathery scents — wait until the sun goes down in the summer before using this fragrance.
That said, when the sun goes down, regardless of the season, Intense shows its true capabilities. In one scenario, you are at home winding down the day alone and preparing for the next day. The smell would fit the mood, as it is cozy and relaxing.
In another scenario, you are out with friends, going to a restaurant or a club. The smell projects, and will grab some attention from anyone that notices, but blends in enough that it is not annoying.
Alternatively, you can be on a date of any kind, and the fragrance will work, whether it is the first date or an anniversary date with a significant other or spouse. The scent is cozy and warm.
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Overall, Bentley for Men Intense was an underrated gem at the time of release in 2013.
However, as people discovered it, people saw how amazing and different the fragrance was, along with the outstanding performance. Now it is the darling of forums and fragrance videos.
Does it deserve the attention it is receiving? Mostly, yes. I think there are better leather scents, but not at the affordable price point.
The only negative points I have about Intense are it does not work well in the summer, is a questionable choice for an active lifestyle because of the prominent leather note, and is not complex enough for those seeking fragrances for artistic purposes. That is not unusual, and I have said worse things about other fragrances.
However, for people seeking a unique fragrance, a solid leather aroma to add to an affordable collection, or a quality scent with impressive performance, Bentley for Men Intense gets the job done, and at an affordable price. (Although the price is rising because of the hype.)
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Edited on 04/18/2022: I incorrectly called Bentley For Men Intense an eau de toilette. The fragrance is an eau de parfum.
2 Comments
A Gentleman’s Musky (Dis)Illusion.
While searching for my desired fragrance on Fragrance Net, I added well-received fragrances to my cart as a blind purchase. One of them was Fujiyama Gentleman, a fragrance from the 1990s that is a clone of Jean Paul Gaultier’s Le Male.
Generally, I do not compare a clone to the original in a review. Instead, I will determine whether the clone can stand on its own as a reliable fragrance.
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The first thing that comes to mind is that I like the bottle design. A gradient with a unique art déco style reminiscent of older skyscrapers in New York City. If it wasn't for the plastic feel of the atomizer, I wouldn't think the fragrance cost less than 20.00 USD.
The opening smells great, as Gentleman starts with a soft and powdery violet that blends with the calming freshness of lavender with a light touch of vanilla. It's nothing unique, but can't fault with what works.
As the opening fades, the scent becomes very different. A heavy cloud of white musk becomes the dominant note.
Afterward, the musk fades, and what remains is a base note that is calmer and smooth vanilla and cinnamon mixture with a now-lighter musk.
I like the open and base notes, and the fragrance overall adds to the feeling of a classic era. However, I am not a fan of the heart note because of the heavy white musk, and that is enough to make me dislike the scent.
That said, while it is not for me, individuals who love musk, and like classic smelling fragrances on a budget, it will not disappoint you. The fragrance smells like something that came from the post-WWII era or the late 1970s when musk became prominent again.
Finally, Gentleman as a name may show that the fragrance is masculine, but the scent is unisex. A woman can wear this with zero problems.
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In terms of performance, Gentleman is a potent fragrance that performs beyond expectations.
The sillage and projection have a moderate range. Gentleman may not light up a room upon entry, but it is a head-turner. Anyone passing by or staying nearby will notice the scent.
In terms of longevity, the fragrance lasted about eight hours on my skin, which goes beyond expectations for an affordable scent.
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In terms of social scenarios, do not expect Gentleman to be a daily scent that pulls compliments with little thought or effort. This is a highly situational fragrance.
I do not recommend Gentleman as an office, or summer scent, as musk can become nauseating. In addition, using Gentleman as a gym or active scent is a crime against humanity; the musk makes body odor more unpleasant and worsens the cloying effect.
I also cannot recommend it as a date night fragrance until you know your significant other likes musk as a fragrance note.
Then again, it probably should be at home for different reasons. It can truly shine brightly if the date night involves a carnal and passionate encounter.
Also, while the fragrance has a classic feel, anyone of any age can pull it off in the right situation.
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Overall, if I somehow did not make it clear by this point, I am not a fan of Gentleman because I am not a fan of the white musk that dominates during the heart note.
However, I can also see the other side. There are people who love musk as a primary note. This fragrance sings to their beat.
If someone wants an affordable fragrance for special nights with their significant other, a fragrance with excellent performance, or a fragrance that is drastically different from modern fragrances, Gentleman is an absolute steal.
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Update on June 27, 2023
Over a year later, the fact I don't like heavy musk stands out further. I ended up giving the fragrance away to my sister, who liked it a lot more than I did.
If Gentleman wasn't so heavily musky, I would have enjoyed it.
Generally, I do not compare a clone to the original in a review. Instead, I will determine whether the clone can stand on its own as a reliable fragrance.
----
The first thing that comes to mind is that I like the bottle design. A gradient with a unique art déco style reminiscent of older skyscrapers in New York City. If it wasn't for the plastic feel of the atomizer, I wouldn't think the fragrance cost less than 20.00 USD.
The opening smells great, as Gentleman starts with a soft and powdery violet that blends with the calming freshness of lavender with a light touch of vanilla. It's nothing unique, but can't fault with what works.
As the opening fades, the scent becomes very different. A heavy cloud of white musk becomes the dominant note.
Afterward, the musk fades, and what remains is a base note that is calmer and smooth vanilla and cinnamon mixture with a now-lighter musk.
I like the open and base notes, and the fragrance overall adds to the feeling of a classic era. However, I am not a fan of the heart note because of the heavy white musk, and that is enough to make me dislike the scent.
That said, while it is not for me, individuals who love musk, and like classic smelling fragrances on a budget, it will not disappoint you. The fragrance smells like something that came from the post-WWII era or the late 1970s when musk became prominent again.
Finally, Gentleman as a name may show that the fragrance is masculine, but the scent is unisex. A woman can wear this with zero problems.
----
In terms of performance, Gentleman is a potent fragrance that performs beyond expectations.
The sillage and projection have a moderate range. Gentleman may not light up a room upon entry, but it is a head-turner. Anyone passing by or staying nearby will notice the scent.
In terms of longevity, the fragrance lasted about eight hours on my skin, which goes beyond expectations for an affordable scent.
----
In terms of social scenarios, do not expect Gentleman to be a daily scent that pulls compliments with little thought or effort. This is a highly situational fragrance.
I do not recommend Gentleman as an office, or summer scent, as musk can become nauseating. In addition, using Gentleman as a gym or active scent is a crime against humanity; the musk makes body odor more unpleasant and worsens the cloying effect.
I also cannot recommend it as a date night fragrance until you know your significant other likes musk as a fragrance note.
Then again, it probably should be at home for different reasons. It can truly shine brightly if the date night involves a carnal and passionate encounter.
Also, while the fragrance has a classic feel, anyone of any age can pull it off in the right situation.
----
Overall, if I somehow did not make it clear by this point, I am not a fan of Gentleman because I am not a fan of the white musk that dominates during the heart note.
However, I can also see the other side. There are people who love musk as a primary note. This fragrance sings to their beat.
If someone wants an affordable fragrance for special nights with their significant other, a fragrance with excellent performance, or a fragrance that is drastically different from modern fragrances, Gentleman is an absolute steal.
----
Update on June 27, 2023
Over a year later, the fact I don't like heavy musk stands out further. I ended up giving the fragrance away to my sister, who liked it a lot more than I did.
If Gentleman wasn't so heavily musky, I would have enjoyed it.
