Came for the Mint, Stayed for the Patchouli
Initial blast is a familiar, dihydromyrcenol-driven, fougere opening—but more refreshing and uplifting, refashioned with a clean and cooling mint accord instead of the complex, traditional combination of spices, coniferous trees, and biting, bitter herbs. Unfortunately, on skin, the bracing mint quickly fades, which I mitigate by applying primarily to fabric. Though, the fragrance still develops beautifully into a simple, yet striking patchouli fragrance, with geranium, rose, and lingering clean aromatics softening and brightening the earthy base.
I had initially purchased a sample of this when I was exploring mint as a note in perfumery, only to be disappointed at how strongly Eau De Minthe resembled Drakkar Noir and other fragrances that rely heavily on the "clean laundry smell" (dihydromyrcenol). It was only after exploring a lineage of vintage masculine fragrances, including fougeres and coniferous chypres, that I was able to appreciate the fragrance for what it is: a classical, patchouli-based fougere, reimagined with an overdose of naturalistic, niche-quality mint.
The abysmal value for money does this fragrance's reception no favors, as it is already bordering on a clone. Though, as a patchouli and mint addict who fell in love with fougeres after sampling Beau De Jour, I could not resist adding it to the collection. Especially after finding a nearly full bottle for a mere $75.
Edit: Quickly becoming my signature for this spring - it never fails to wake me up and give me a a sense of optimism heading into the work week. Not truly a 10/10 due to the unoriginal DNA and poor value, but perfect for my tastes.
