Cuir Noir by Giorgio Armani

Armani Privé Cuir Noir: To start, I’d say ‘quality comes at a price’. My wife asked for this for our anniversary; as it’s unisex and I had few excuses to refuse, I’ll be gifting it to her. What an incredible fragrance, a genuine delight. The leather is subtle and crafted with care, it captivates you from the first whiff. Plus, it boasts one of the best vanillas I’ve tried, blending perfectly. It’s super versatile; whether worn by a woman or a man, it exudes power, making you feel superior, comfortable, distinguished and prestigious. I didn’t know what to expect, but it’s a total success. I understand why it’s expensive, and I even think it’s not that pricey for what it offers. It’s not about paying the bare minimum, but being fair: if something is worth it, you must pay for it. I’ll definitely repurchase. Scent: 11. Projection: Moderate to good. Longevity: 8 hours. Price: High, but worth it. Recommended.

My first Armani Privé fragrance was Rouge Malachite; I’m not usually a floral person, but this broke my mould. As I loved it so much, I sought another from the house. I’m lucky to have a perfumery nearby with everything to test. The first time, I asked the assistant which was her favourite. Although tastes are personal, she knows them better than anyone. She didn’t hesitate for a second: ‘My favourite is Cuir Noir’. She handed me the spray and I nearly dropped dead; what a masterpiece, what an intoxicating and seductive perfume, what class and level, what magic… I then tried Musc Shamal and at first glance, I liked it more for being stronger with an astonishing musk. But I put them back on my skin to decide, and Cuir Noir took all the votes. It melted with my skin, making me feel marvelled, ecstatic, a living goddess and sensual… I love it! I understood why it was her favourite and now it’s mine. The projection isn’t huge, max a metre, you have to get close to notice, but it wasn’t a problem; its discretion allows me to wear it anywhere and anytime. It’s a flagship fragrance, very expensive, that smells of luxury and majesty. Longevity is long, 12 hours or more. What does it smell like? To elegant and delicious leather with a sexy spiced rose, embraced by a soft vanilla that doesn’t steal the show, and a captivating oud. I’d swear it has cocoa too; at some point, I feel it’s chocolatey.

Cuir Noir is a beautiful and elegant leather with a very well-structured sweet oud base, possessing a European character that feels refined and magnetic, capable of capturing you in minutes. Perfect and discreet for daytime, it projects well without being overwhelming. It’s like smelling a wallet made of the finest leather, although yes, a bit pricey. Rating: 8.