Bring it back
Phileas is a superbly dry, green and rugged masculine: sharp juniper and pine over spices, leather, tobacco and a beautifully mossy base. There is something windswept and outdoorsy about it: earthy, slightly bitter and unapologetically old-school, yet remarkably refined. A forgotten 1980s gem with real character.
old-school volcano
Leonard Homme feels like a reinterpretation of a volcanic fragrance DNA: dry, smoky, mineral and darkly warm. The castoreum adds a leathery, animalic depth, giving the scent a rugged vintage masculinity. Feels familiar yet transformed. It smells like hot stone, smoke and worn leather: distinctive, austere and full of character.
dark honey
Ténéré is a wonderfully warm, old-school masculine scent.
The honey note is what stands out most to me.
It feels dark, rich and slightly resinous,
rather than sugary or gourmand.
There is a beautiful golden warmth to it,
mixed with spices, woods and amber.
The honey gives the fragrance depth
and a subtle animalic sensuality.
It feels dense but never cloying.
Very smooth and masculine.
There is something dry and almost dusty underneath,
which suits the name perfectly.
The sweetness stays controlled throughout.
Honey remains noticeable deep into the drydown.
It becomes softer, warmer and more elegant with time.
Definitely a fragrance with character.
Very different from modern sweet masculines.
Classic, confident and distinctive.
For lovers of honey notes, it is a hidden gem.
