Emblem Montblanc 2014

One thing you have to give to the brand Montblanc: they stay true to their line, at least regarding the aesthetics of their writing instruments as well as their watches. And even some perfume bottles can keep up with the sophisticated design. Emblem definitely belongs in that category.

It's just a shame that, as is often the case in the world of fragrances, the elegance of the bottles does not always match the content. Unfortunately, Emblem falls into this category as well.

Even if one were to consider that Montblanc aims to establish itself more in the segment of understated office fragrances with their men's line and less in the club scene, Emblem unfortunately does not rise above mediocrity.

For higher ambitions, this Eau de Toilette is simply too plain and offers nothing really exciting besides a sweet-synthetic blend of cardamom and tonka bean. With exactly these two ingredients, it reminds me of the colossal Dolce & Gabbana pour Homme in its original version, but despite the violet leaf and clary sage, it drifts too much towards a shower gel aroma - and I find that problematic.

I think anyone who is financially well-off enough to sign their checks with Montblanc pens and check the time on Montblanc watches will surely want and find more qualitatively demanding fragrances for their status. And they don't even have to be more expensive!