Xeryus Rouge

This one was on my wish list for months before I finally gave in and purchased this stunning gem. **packaging**: Retro, stylish; **bottle**: I adore holding this in my hand - the design perfectly complements the scent and makes it easy to pack in my suitcase. **at first encounter**: Initially, the opening note had a soup-like quality that left me regretful, especially if you spray it multiple times on the same spot. However, after two or three minutes, the cactus note emerged, and with another 20 minutes, the vanilla component kicked in, adding a smooth, delicious dimension to the scent. I'm guessing this might not be actual vanilla, but rather a rare note that I'm not familiar with - one of the many intriguing aspects of Xeryus Rouge. Throughout, orange and cedar provided subtle background notes, making it clear that this is indeed a citrus-based perfume. **The Farewell**: The dry-down concludes with a warm musk note. **OVERALL**, I'd say the performance is impressive, but I won't recommend it because I want to be the only one wearing it! This is an older scent that's not widely known, yet everyone seems to ask about it - probably because it's unique and familiar at the same time. While I'd wear it year-round (except for perhaps a hot summer day), it would be perfect for winter, spring, or autumn, and even on a summer evening. **Does it smell like Davidoff Hot Water?** Well, let me put it this way: Davidoff Hot Water is Xeryus Rouge's less refined cousin, whereas Xeryus Rouge is the sophisticated older brother - a scent you could wear on your first date, but perhaps not until after three decades of marriage before your partner might appreciate it.

Master perfumer Annick Menardo's creations have left an impressive mark on the perfume world, with Xeryus Rouge being a standout masterpiece among her unique and masculine scents 🌟. This exquisite woody-aromatic chypre boasts uncommon notes that instantly make it a timeless classic 🔥. The opening is characterized by fresh green cactus and grassy (terragon grass) notes, with a subtle kick of red pepper spiciness that grows more pronounced as the freshness yields to rich cedar and sandalwood base notes 🌲. The complexity of its note evolution is remarkably rare in perfumery 👀. Xeryus Rouge is best suited for fall to winter wear, with 3-4 sprays providing a long-lasting impression (4-6 hours) and good projection 💨. This masterpiece can be effortlessly worn on both formal and casual occasions 🕺.

I adore this perfume, but I've noticed that even when I use it sparingly - usually no more than two sprays on my chest - everyone around me seems to detest it. It's almost as if the scent has an unusual affinity with my body chemistry, making a minimal amount more potent and overpowering for others.

Xeryus Rouge presents an unconventional wet and starchy character with a distinct peanutty-savory note reminiscent of water chestnuts. The initial impression is a novel and captivating sensation. A brisk minty accord, accompanied by tarragon, creates a refreshing contrast. The overall composition is paradoxically both hot and cold, evoking the sensation of ice water infused with a sliced jalapeno garnish. This fragrance bears similarities to pad thai in its elegant and neutral approach. I find the name and bottle misleading, as this scent doesn't evoke "red" to me; instead, it appears sage green or gray. Xeryus Rouge would excel as an innovative take on a traditional eau de cologne, suiting a laid-back man who appreciates rugged outdoor pursuits but also values sophistication and refinement, even in formal attire.

I was intrigued by the mixed reviews surrounding this fragrance, considering my previous experiences with Givenchy have been underwhelming. When I finally got to try it out, I was pleasantly surprised. While I wouldn't classify it as a "club scent" like some others do, I understand where they're coming from - there's an undeniable 80s/90s nightclub aura here that eludes me. The terragon-pimento-cactus accord is the real showstopper, injecting this fragrance with an captivating hot-cold note that has me hooked. This unique quality prevents it from feeling heavy or overpowering. I can see this working well for a night out, bringing a refreshing vegetal-cucumber-pepper freshness to the occasion. However, it could also be worn for a casual gathering with friends or a movie night on a Friday - just not suitable for daytime wear and leaning more towards masc styles. This fragrance has broad appeal and would likely suit people of various ages.