A few retro classics, some stunning new releases – these are the masculine scents of the season
Words Jeffrey Louis-Reed
THE BUSINESSMAN
Eau Sauvage – DIOR
My last bottle came via a late friend who epitomised all that was truly gentlemanly. A certified classic from Dior, circa 1966. Think rosemary, petitgrain and vetiver. £69.50,100ml
71/72 Turnbull & Asser – FLORIS
This new collaborative scent combines oud with citrus notes that lead into florals. A wearable everyday winner. £140, 100ml
Azzaro Pour Homme – AZZARO
Launched in the late 1970s, this fougère scent (woody, herbal, botanical) is perfect both for the office and the long ride home to the country. £36.33, 30ml
THE BOHEMIAN
Cool Water, Davidoff
What’s a list like this without a rewind to a mid-80s throwback? This Davidoff classic is being adopted by a new generation of cool kids.
£34.84 (normally £52), 125ml
Santal 33 – LE LABO
One of my favourites on this list, Santal 33 is a unisex scent that is woody and leathery with touches of iris. I know a few people who’ve worn this exclusively since 2012 when it was launched – it’s that good. £175, 100ml /£120, 50ml
Cardinal – HEELEY
A heavenly incense scent, as the name indicates, with a core of labdanum, ciste, frankincense and myrrh. £125, 100ml
THE CHAMELEON
Timbuktu – L’ARTISAN PARFUMEUR
Spices, smoky notes and resins combine to make this one of the most delicious scents. Unisex for sure. £97, 100ml
Rose 31 – LE LABO
The second Le Labo on the list, Rose 31 can be worn by anyone as is a musky, woody, floral. Intense and long-lasting. £175, 100ml / £120, 50ml
Fracas – ROBERT PIGUET
Worn by a formidable conceptual artist I once knew, this scent is often worn by people who don’t give a f***. £145, 100ml
THE PARTY ANIMAL
French Lover – FREDERIC MALLE
Perhaps the most incredibly romantic scent on the list, as the name implies, this has been rocking since 2007. If I had to get just one – this would be it. Think spices, incense and musk. £120, 100ml
Egoiste – CHANEL
Spice, vanilla and woody notes combine to make one of the all-time masterpieces of masculine fragrance. £52, 50ml / £72, 100ml
Series Three Intense Avignon Eau De Toilette – COMME DES GARÇONS
A favourite of a certain Horse Meat Disco resident DJ ( looking at you Jim! ) this is one of my favourites for the party season – indeed I am wearing it right now! £65, 50ml
THE HIGH STREET HEROES
Habit Rouge – GUERLAIN
Although many will be opening the classic Guerlain Vetiver bottle this season, Habit Rouge is the sure-fire alternative with a warm leather, earthy scent that references horses, leather and Boxing Day. £50.50, 50ml
Sculpture Homme Eau de Toilette – NIKOS
If you’re looking to gift a scent this Christmas – and it is one of the most common gifts – this one cannot miss. Think a gorgeous summer evening in the Med in a bottle. £52.90, 100ml
Original Santal – CREED
Woody, oriental with the rich scent of Mysore sandalwood, fiery cinnamon, warm vanilla, and tonka bean – a classic for a reason. £155, 50ml