Jules (Dior)

By Dane

Jules is is the hidden gem of the Dior line (no pun intended). Not officially discontinued, it remains very elusive and difficult to find. Your standard Dior sales assistant probably won't have any idea what you're talking about if you inquire, but for those willing to do a little hunting, it's well worth the chase.

The opening of Jules is nothing short of frightening. There are different types of animalic notes and accords found in perfumery - those found in scents like Muscs Koublai Khan and Jicky would be more at the "rear" end of the scale (if ya know what I mean), while Jules comes across as the entire animal. Dogs running through the forest after a rainfall would be the poetic way to put it I suppose. I don't read poetry though, so I'll say that it smells like wet dog, dirty feet, leather boots, and Christmas trees. Scared yet? No need, it all comes together rather swimmingly, and as with many men's scents from the 80's, Jules is musky, strong, and unfortunately, a bit dated.

Jules and I enjoyed our time together. I appreciate the balsamic qualities, and even the musk and costus combo, but the modern interpretations of "skank" like Miller Harris' L'Air de Rien tend to be more my cup of tea. Personal opinion aside, a masterpiece in men's perfumery and something everyone should experience at least once.

Year: 1980
Notes: Artemisia, Caraway, Lavender, Bergamot, Cyclamen, Carnation, Sandalwood, Basil, Jasmine, Cedar, Rose, Leather, Fir, Tonka Bean, Musk, Oakmoss, Amber