Several winners here.
Pinaud Clubman Reserve Whiskey Woods: This is one of three new aftershaves Pinaud introduced late last year that have a liquor theme. Whiskey Woods is described as a blend of tobacco, whiskey, and bergamot. The whiskey is very understated, so don't worry about smelling like a drunk. Tobacco is more prominent and is balanced by a hint of citrus from the bergamot. It is not overpowering, yet lasts a fair while. This quickly became one of my favorite fall aftershaves. Images of late October Saturdays, jeans and a flannel shirt, and collecting wood for the fireplace come to mind. In some ways it reminds me of the smell of an oak woodpile blended with a humidor.
Pinaud Clubman Reserve Gent's Gin: The second in this series of new Pinaud offerings. Juniper, the berries of which are the primary flavor of gin, and red cedar are the featured scents. This is balanced by a hint of lime. This combination, while definitely woody, is actually bright, refreshing, sophisticated, and a great year round choice. This is my wife's favorite aftershave on me. Twice, and unsolicited, she made a point to give her wholehearted approval.
Pinaud Special Reserve: Special Reserve is one of Pinaud's classic old school aftershaves. Deep, rich, oiled leather is featured here. I don't know how else to describe it. Wearing this I feel I should be sitting in an overstuffed leather chair next to a massive fireplace in a mansion talking to Sherlock Holmes. Special Reserve is labeled as an aftershave/cologne. I think it is more cologne as it is strong and long lasting. The first time I used this I splashed it on liberally like any other aftershave. I had to drive with the windows open because I was overpowering myself. Used sparingly, however, Special Reserve is very nice indeed.
Master Challenge: Challenge is another cedar aftershave, but at the opposite end of the spectrum from Gent's Gin. Instead of fresh juniper and lime, this cedar blends with leather and a hint of orange. The scent is initially reminiscent of Pinaud's Special Reserve. But the leather fades in dry down and the cedar comes center stage. Beneath it all I think there is a musk background. Challenge is a true aftershave with glycerin. Feels great and does not overpower or last all day. A great weekend in the winter aftershave.
Aubrey Organics City Rhythms: This was loaned to me by a friend. The label describes it as cedar, sandalwood, and bergamot. Based on that I should have liked it, but there was something else that was off putting to me. I think there is also some patchouli in there and I hate patchouli. YMMV. On the other hand there are lots of face goodies like witch hazel, aloe, and glycerin to make for a great post shave feel. I believe this AS has been discontinued.
Next segment will be the spice category in a couple of days.
Shave early, shave often.
Pinaud Clubman Reserve Whiskey Woods: This is one of three new aftershaves Pinaud introduced late last year that have a liquor theme. Whiskey Woods is described as a blend of tobacco, whiskey, and bergamot. The whiskey is very understated, so don't worry about smelling like a drunk. Tobacco is more prominent and is balanced by a hint of citrus from the bergamot. It is not overpowering, yet lasts a fair while. This quickly became one of my favorite fall aftershaves. Images of late October Saturdays, jeans and a flannel shirt, and collecting wood for the fireplace come to mind. In some ways it reminds me of the smell of an oak woodpile blended with a humidor.
Pinaud Clubman Reserve Gent's Gin: The second in this series of new Pinaud offerings. Juniper, the berries of which are the primary flavor of gin, and red cedar are the featured scents. This is balanced by a hint of lime. This combination, while definitely woody, is actually bright, refreshing, sophisticated, and a great year round choice. This is my wife's favorite aftershave on me. Twice, and unsolicited, she made a point to give her wholehearted approval.
Pinaud Special Reserve: Special Reserve is one of Pinaud's classic old school aftershaves. Deep, rich, oiled leather is featured here. I don't know how else to describe it. Wearing this I feel I should be sitting in an overstuffed leather chair next to a massive fireplace in a mansion talking to Sherlock Holmes. Special Reserve is labeled as an aftershave/cologne. I think it is more cologne as it is strong and long lasting. The first time I used this I splashed it on liberally like any other aftershave. I had to drive with the windows open because I was overpowering myself. Used sparingly, however, Special Reserve is very nice indeed.
Master Challenge: Challenge is another cedar aftershave, but at the opposite end of the spectrum from Gent's Gin. Instead of fresh juniper and lime, this cedar blends with leather and a hint of orange. The scent is initially reminiscent of Pinaud's Special Reserve. But the leather fades in dry down and the cedar comes center stage. Beneath it all I think there is a musk background. Challenge is a true aftershave with glycerin. Feels great and does not overpower or last all day. A great weekend in the winter aftershave.
Aubrey Organics City Rhythms: This was loaned to me by a friend. The label describes it as cedar, sandalwood, and bergamot. Based on that I should have liked it, but there was something else that was off putting to me. I think there is also some patchouli in there and I hate patchouli. YMMV. On the other hand there are lots of face goodies like witch hazel, aloe, and glycerin to make for a great post shave feel. I believe this AS has been discontinued.
Next segment will be the spice category in a couple of days.
Shave early, shave often.