By Thomas
An older gent was explaining to me how he played Bridge, and how finesse was a major factor in his success. At the time (I was, oh…11 years old), finesse was something I’d heard about but had never tried. Now, many years later I understand the value of finesse (sort of), but sometimes I go for the direct route.
Speaking of the direct route…Bel-Ami is to finesse as bull is to china shop. This is an olfactory brute, right from the initial spray. Spicy, peppery woods dominate from the outset, and it’s a big, bold scent. I’d swear there was cardamom and anise in here alongside the big black pepper note, giving some welcome fullness to the scent.
After a few minutes I was surprised to note a smoky church-like incense joining the spices and woods. This goes on in harmony for hours, until the drydown when the spices and incense fade a bit and the sandalwood becomes noticeable. This is where Bel-Ami develops the finesse you’d expect from the house of Hermes.
Bel Ami seems to have been overlooked among the recent releases from the house of Hermes. Better for Autumn/winter – I never wear this during the summer, but I do wear this a lot in the winter. To be fair, it reminds me of a workmanlike version of Ormonde Man. Both have their unique angles, but if you already have one you can likely do without the other. If you have neither, give this a whirl.
Year: 1986
Notes: Cardamom, Amber, Patchouli, Leather
Just discovered this, and snagged a bottle of the gorgeous vintage formulation in the cocktail shaker bottle. Yes, this is bold, manly stuff, but beautifully crafted, with a lingering drydown that is pleasing to the end. Cedar, black pepper, and leather, with a boozy opening, and a cedar and sandlewood finish. I do not find it dated like some of the other big masculines from the 80s. It is quality all the way.
ReplyDeleteHey Scott! :-) I love this fragrance and have been wearing it for ages - it's incredibly polished, beautifully realised. But where did you find yourself a bottle of the vintage formulation!!!? I loved the spark in that one - the reformulation is a bit more muted. Would love to stock up on the vintage formulation.
ReplyDelete