A*Men Ultra Zest Mugler 2015

Thierry Mugler's A*Men line has some real gems that have become classics, but where does this one stack up. Please enjoy my take on bugler's Ultra Zest.

Opening with a terrific blood orange and tangerine blast this is quite a different take on the earlier A-Men versions that mainly focus on the warmer sweeter territories. This blood orange is sweet, but not as synthetically sweet as i.e. Rabannes cloying Ultrared for Men. Of course, you get the classic TM patchouli/vanilla and a hint of coffee drydown as in most A-Men varieties (the Mugliernade ??) but this was probably to be expected.

I see it as a warmer weather scent, but could also be refreshing in colder temps perhaps ? Unfortunately, the blood orange zestiness disappears within an hour, I would really love this to have continued throughout the drydown for some more freshness. Also I find the overall longevity of, say, Pure Malt to be better than this one, but that could be caused by the citrus elements that often fade out before other elements.

Overall - fresh and enjoyable but nothing groundbreaking.

so i was searching for a summer/spring fragrance and i found the best one in the market i'm becoming a fan of mugler's fragrances and especially the bottles this bottle will definitely stand out in my room, a citrucy openning thanks to the blood orange and tangerine so refreshing and so sweet (in a good way)

Fresh citrus notes of tangerine and mandarin are instantly captivated by the vibrant energy of ginger. Accented with refreshing mint, it's surprisingly refreshing, creating a truly "ultra" invigorating feeling.

But this is precisely where Mugler truly shines. Beneath this invigorating fragrance lies a gourmand note reminiscent of the spirit of the classic "Angel." The rich, sweet flavor of coffee and the bittersweet impression of orange peel. The harmony of these opposing elements is truly unique.

The refreshing mint blends with the rich, gourmand sweetness of the base notes. True to its name, "A Man Strong Within," the surface is smart and refreshing, while the depth and strength of vanilla and patchouli are woven into its interior. Amidst its freshness, the fragrance brims with a playful adult spirit.

Respect for this unique piece.

Due to the fact that I was never a Mugler wearer before and thus have no associations, I can approach this Ultra Zest from a neutral perspective.
At first, the extreme hardness of the blood orange hits you, more specifically, the outer peel. It's as if someone is peeling oranges. Additionally, the mint appears, and not very subtly but also demanding. The sharpness of ginger is consequently somewhat noticeable, which I also appreciate.
So far, everything is done right.

As a living orange peel, one exists for a maximum of half an hour; after that, a resemblance to the peppery Bang can be detected, simply more self-assured and dominant.
The vanilla then indicates the direction.
Ultimately, it ends in the finale with the harmony of tonka bean.
Also important, here you have a truly strongly perceivable companion that accompanies you throughout the day. With all the comments from daily encounters. These are usually in a positive and inquisitive sense, asking what this special and pleasant fragrance is about. Often with the remark, very special and very intense.

An attempt to bring this lush and very flamboyant Mugler closer.

Clarins, as the manufacturer of Azzaro and Mugler products, has become bolder and more provocative in its innovations. They do not bring numerous Night, Intense, and extreme variants to the market but instead try to carve out their own bold niches. This Ultra is clearly a genuine attempt to stand out from the great monotony and not to appear like all the boring and uninspired new releases.
Take it or leave it. A fragrance that polarizes.

Why must a fragrance be mainstream to be criticized?
It is also fine if a product is contrary, like this orange-vanilla container.
If it is rejected, then let it be so. If it is loved, immediately with a repurchase factor of 100%.

The beauty in the world of taste senses is not just to consume sugar, sweetness, and a lot of marketing fluff, but to experience honest work that deserves respect.