By Thomas
There is quiet masculinity, and then there are guys called Nacho. I met Nacho at the Chanel boutique when I was looking for my latest get-out-of-jail gift and while there I decided to sample the Chanel men’s offerings. My hand hovered over the black bottle when Nacho verbally slapped it away, steering me to Allure for Men instead. Well, Allure for Men is no Antaeus, but Nacho did select a scent for my wife that she liked so he’s not all bad.
Antaeus is another 80’s power scent, but unlike many of its contemporaries it actually shows restraint. Yes, it’s easy to apply too much, particularly with the vintage bottles, but unlike many others you don’t reek of anything in particular (pine forests, libraries, urinals). Antaeus opens with honey and sage set against a backdrop of spices and woods. The first impression is bold, warm, and focused.
Soon the honey gives way to beeswax (honey, less the sweetness) and the sage is replaced by more woods in the style of a cigar box – no, not the paper-wrapped cardboard jobbies, but rather the ones made of mahogany – a dry, rich, natural smell. No, you won’t smell like a humidor, and you should be thankful for that.
Over time the animalic (labdanum?) notes fade in with the woods and spices and leave a warm, comforting scent. How comforting? I wear this whenever I give a speech. Antaeus may smell dated to some, but it is appropriate everywhere, with nearly any attire. Not recommended for Jim Carrey impersonators and guys who go by Nacho.
Year: 1981
Perfumer: Jacques Polge
Notes: Myrtle, Alpine Lavender, Clary Sage, Patchouli, Cistus Labdanum, Beeswax Absolute
Love the review. Some of the 80s powerhouse scents leave me shuddering, but this one, especially with it's beeswax and labdanum notes, sounds quite wearable. Must procure a sample for my husband or son. Preferably not from a guy named Nacho. Out of curiousity, what fragrance did he recommend for your wife?
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