Top Notes 
Heart Notes 
Base Notes 
01/20/2025
Merlotsupern
13 Reviews
Merlotsupern
1
The mature and dry face of Phantom - a pleasant all-rounder
I recently picked up Phantom Elixir at a great price despite being a new release, and after two days of wearing it, I must say it’s a solid addition to Paco Rabanne’s Phantom lineup - right up there with the Parfum version. While it doesn’t aim to revolutionize the fragrance world, it delivers a well-rounded and wearable scent.
The DNA is the usual Phantom, but this iteration leans more mature and refined. It dials back the sweetness (no rhubarb here, which I liked in Parfum) and introduces a faint marine vibe blended with a dry, polite and inoffensive "designer oud." Some have compared it to Tom Ford’s Oud Minerale, and I can see the resemblance. However, Phantom Elixir feels more versatile and approachable, perfect for someone dipping their toes into oud territory without diving headfirst into complexity.
I decided to put its projection to the test by asking a few people nearby if they could smell it on me after a couple of hours. The response? “Yes, and it’s rather good.” Subtle but positive feedback. Longevity sits in the 6-8 hour range, with the scent gradually fading after the 5-hour mark. It’s not beast mode, but it gets the job done. Still discernible as a skin scent well beyond the 10 hours mark.
To wrap up, we are not talking about a game-changer, but Phantom Elixir is more than just another run-of-the-mill designer fragrance. It offers a welcome alternative to the endless wave of “blue” or "dumb reach" perfumes, serving as an easy, everyday option with a touch more character. If you’re looking for a versatile scent with a slight distinctive hint, this is worth considering.
Not every fragrance has to be bombastic sometimes, being pleasantly reliable is more than enough, especially if you are looking for versatility or office friendly options.
The DNA is the usual Phantom, but this iteration leans more mature and refined. It dials back the sweetness (no rhubarb here, which I liked in Parfum) and introduces a faint marine vibe blended with a dry, polite and inoffensive "designer oud." Some have compared it to Tom Ford’s Oud Minerale, and I can see the resemblance. However, Phantom Elixir feels more versatile and approachable, perfect for someone dipping their toes into oud territory without diving headfirst into complexity.
I decided to put its projection to the test by asking a few people nearby if they could smell it on me after a couple of hours. The response? “Yes, and it’s rather good.” Subtle but positive feedback. Longevity sits in the 6-8 hour range, with the scent gradually fading after the 5-hour mark. It’s not beast mode, but it gets the job done. Still discernible as a skin scent well beyond the 10 hours mark.
To wrap up, we are not talking about a game-changer, but Phantom Elixir is more than just another run-of-the-mill designer fragrance. It offers a welcome alternative to the endless wave of “blue” or "dumb reach" perfumes, serving as an easy, everyday option with a touch more character. If you’re looking for a versatile scent with a slight distinctive hint, this is worth considering.
Not every fragrance has to be bombastic sometimes, being pleasantly reliable is more than enough, especially if you are looking for versatility or office friendly options.
Merlotsupern
