I’ve really been leaning into the clean boy, Mediterranean, linen oceanic look. I got pacific chill a while back and adore it, but I’m looking for a new summer freshie. So far I’m stuck between French Riviera by Mancera or Torino 21 by Xerjoff. I’d love to finally own a Xerjoff, and really enjoy the dna of this one, but it might be redundant as I already have a fragrance occupying the minty herbal fruity slot (pacific chill), so I’m leaning French Riviera now. I need more high quality marine fragrances as well. What do you brothers think?

A modern classic that earned its reputation as the ultimate polished, professional scent. Released in 2009, crafted by Harry Fremont, a name you might recognise as one half of the team behind the iconic CK One. Let’s be clear, vetiver is the undisputed star here. This isn’t just another woody scent; it’s a masterclass in how to treat one note with absolute precision. It took me a little while to truly appreciate what Fremont did here, but now I get it. This is beautifully crafted, and stands head and shoulders above most vetiver-focused fragrances I’ve tried. Classed as Woody Aromatic, it’s balanced in a way few others manage. It opens with a bright, zesty burst, primarily grapefruit with a soft hint of orange flower, but to my nose there’s a distinct green edge straight away. Fresh, invigorating, and never sharp. That citrus fades smoothly into a warm, spicy heart with nutmeg and pimento add gentle warmth without heat, and orris root brings a subtle powderiness that softens everything beautifully. But the core is that vetiver. Tom Ford’s take is clean, it avoids the heavy smoke, dirt, or oiliness that plagues so many vetivers. This is refined, polished, and elegant. Oakmoss and amber anchor it perfectly for depth and staying power without ever shouting over the main act. The balance is impressive; nothing dominates, nothing feels out of place. As I said, this one grew on me, it’s not loud, it doesn’t scream for attention, but it’s there, steady and memorable. It feels tailored, well-blended, and yes it absolutely is expensive. That 60ml bottle will cost you around €126, though you might find it for roughly €122 at the better department stores, every little helps. Performance is… respectable. Roughly 6 hours on skin, with modest projectio, it stays close enough that you’ll smell it, and others will notice you, but it won’t fill a room. If you want something bold or attention-grabbing, look elsewhere. But if you want clean, classy, sophisticated, and genuinely well-made. This is worth every penny. It’s not trying to be everyone’s favourite; it’s exactly what it wants to be, and it does it flawlessly.

Well gents, im gonna end up wearing whatever I want anyways, but i do appreciate the collective wisdom of the group. I have a 1st date with a very attractive 28 yr old university student tomorrow. She's more of a country girl, than city. She asked me out because "the city boys dont get it, and she prefers a country gentleman". Shes from my area, but temporarily living away for school... this is the 5th attempt Lots of wild fire smoke in the air. Temperatures around 32C (89.6F). Most likely a patio dinner, drinks, walk, etc. Eventually i will get called to work and it will end. So which frag to choose (i honestly haven't decided yet)