So, given the enormous choice, it's perhaps easy to forget the classics and, as far as men's fragrances are concerned, one of these has to be Aramis. When it was launched in 1964, it certainly stood out from the crowd, which to be fair, was more of a low-key gathering than the full-blown multitude that we have today. It was apparently the first ever men's scent to be sold in a department store and – most importantly – women loved it! And despite being joined by other fragrances over the years (Devin, Tuscany etc) the classic leather chypre still has it's dedicated fanbase today.
And now there's another – Aramis Impeccable, which in its sleek black box is every bit as sophisticated as the original, but with something of the night about it. Definitely masculine, there's Moroccan cedar wood, black pepper, juniper berry and citrus zest for added freshness.
The first impression is certainly of wood, or more specifically, freshly sawn wood, says my partner, who'se an ever-willing tester of fragrances (he says it's actually helping him to develop a more sensitive nose for wine). the woody scent hangs around for about the time it takes him to to have breakfast and leave for work, by which time it has transformed into something sweeter, darker and more intense.
The women at work – of which there are many and of all ages – are pretty keen on it and those of them who are old enough to remember when Aramis was at its trendiest (ooh, the 70s probably) declare Impeccable to be "even sexier". So – a result I'd say.
Limited Edition EDT 110ml - £45 Exclusive to John Lewis. |
