Me : "Here we go again..." (expecting something old school and perhaps even musty...)
Fougère Royale: "Well, take this - we'll start out with some fresh bergamot, lemons and chamomile, add a dose of geranium, a dash of fern and throw in some herbs. Yeah, that's it, let's finish it up with lavender, some patchouli, clary sage, oak moss, vanilla and tonka with a touch of cedar !"
The result is smooth, herbal, easy to wear and clean. The sheer amount of ingredients compose a luxurious and rich scent. I'm sure the slightly sweeter base, dialed down lavender and oakmoss and lack of coumarin will be off-putting to many fougere experts, but the sense that FR walks out of fougere land and dips it's toes in oriental waters is what I think keeps it modern - IMO this is an excellent aromatic fougere, a slightly sweeter and more modern alternative to my beloved Rive Gauche - not a substitute in any way, but a slightly updated version. Actually the fern note (is this what is listed as "rondeletia"?) does mute the lavender somewhat, but still I like it.
A classic barbershop men's fragrance that can be worn most of the year with moderate sillage and good longevity makes this a great choice for most gentlemen!
