honey Archive

Parfum d’Empire Ambre Russe: Review

In writing a review of Parfum d’Empire Ambre Russe, I felt I should consider the overall impact of amber (ambergris, ambrette) and how it influences the fragrance experience. I’ve reviewed a couple of Amber-keynote scents — Tom Ford Amber Absolute, Bond No 9 New York Amber — and there are several derivative scents that tend to use [...]
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Bond No. 9 New York Oud: Review

Given the Fall and impending Winter seasons, it’s about time we reviewed something fairly unique: Bond. No 9 New York Oud. Before we do, a disclaimer: I gave away a bit of the plot in the opening, so I’ll provide the spoiler as well. This is not an Oud in the same respect that Le [...]
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Penhaligon’s Sartorial (Review): Barber of Savile Row.

I remembered recently that my first experience with Penhaligon’s was a stop in their Regent Street store back in 2006 with my wife while we were shopping in London. Both of us thought it was interesting and a quaint step into Victorian Britain, though neither of us walked away having purchased anything during that trip. [...]
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La Collection Privee Dior Leather Oud (Review): Could this be a daily wearer?

Every niche perfumer has come out with their own version of an Oud-based fragrance (see our earlier piece on Oud scents) over the past few years. While not necessarily a ‘new’ trend, it’s one that’s gained popularity in niche circles just as the aquatics of the 90′s and the citrus-blends of the 00′s. It also signals a [...]
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YSL Kouros (Review): “Love it or hate it, but it owns the room.”

Someone will read this post and ask themselves, “Why is this guy writing about this swill?” Or, “Aren’t the 80′s on the phone asking for their cologne back?” Depending on your point of view, this is a scent you will love as part of your wardrobe or one that you’ll find completely repugnant and far [...]
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Serge Lutens Fumerie Turque: Review

Every so often, those who write prolifically about fragrances will mostly agree on a particular fragrance as ‘the reference standard’ for capturing the essence of a particular note, whether it’s Oud, Patchouli, Sandalwood, Vetiver or — as is the case here — tobacco. Since my personal favorite in this genre, Creed’s Vintage Tabarome (1875), has [...]
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