Serge noire Serge Lutens 2008

...I thought after the first attempt - and today after the 3rd test, I must unfortunately confirm this conclusion as well. Based on the previous comments and the fragrance notes that usually appeal to me, I was firmly convinced that Serge Noir would become my new favorite - but it seems it was not meant to be.

Don't get me wrong: Serge Noir is truly a demanding and extremely elaborate scent, but unfortunately, there are two penetrating tendencies in it that I do not like at all:

First and foremost is the Apicius ammonia comparison, which I can absolutely agree with - although less piercing, more like stale urine. Additionally, there is a strong animalistic note that reminds me very much of the sweat smell of a hard-working farmer. I have no idea where these scents come from; of the fragrance notes mentioned above, I can most likely attribute the patchouli to these sensations, as it can also be very animalistic, penetrating, and musky at times.

However, I really like the rest of the composition of the fragrance notes! The spices, the woods, and the resins come through beautifully and make me only guess how much I would have liked Serge Noir without the two aforementioned knock-outs. So I prefer to stick with Gucci pour Homme and continue my search for a new favorite in the "dark spice shelf"...