Armani Code Ultimate by Giorgio Armani

I managed to get a sealed 2015 batch; the fragrance is lovely, not too far from the EDT. The 2021 EDP feels further from the Absolu and Profumo but has a more mature touch and lasts longer. It’s a skin scent with no projection or trail, yet you can feel it all day—lasting over 24 hours at 5cm. Others project more, and it’s not as cloying as the recent flankers. I have no regrets; I see it between the A-list and the current EDP.

A standout from the Code line: a classy, sober, elegant, and distinguished aroma. Spectacular longevity, obviously for night and cold weather; it comes in spectacular. The tonka bean is very creamy, rich, and delicious. It will never go wrong; the only downside is that it’s already discontinued and a hassle to find. A good alternative if you can’t find this gem is its younger brother, AC Absolu. A majestic fragrance.

It’s identical to the original formulation or the old Black Code, though I feel this Ultimate version is more subtle and elegant. Sadly, it’s already discontinued, with tonka bean and vanilla taking the lead. Perfect for night and cold weather, ideal for formal or semi-formal events. Longevity is 7 hours, sillage 3 hours. Rating 9.5/10

In my opinion, the best of the Code line. I feel it’s less synthetic than the Profumo (which I can no longer stand) and has slightly better performance than the regular version, without being a beast. It’s subtle and linear but elegant, ideal for a date; I think it would get lost in polluted environments. Compared to the original, it’s less alcoholic and slightly sweeter with the vanilla-tonka combo. Good longevity and moderate but always perceptible sillage. Recommended.

Armani Code Ultimate by Giorgio Armani (2012). My absolute favorite in the Code line. Ultimate does a great job creating a creamy, sensual vanilla and tonka accord in the opening, then moves into a solid, characterful wood base. At first, it flashes with fresh notes, but quickly settles into a soft, tempting blend of vanilla and tonka. Designed for nights out and clubs, it has constant projection but never overpowers. It’s linear; the wood notes are distinct—a good interpretation of rich, diffuse guaiac wood that keeps the romantic and sensual theme on a warm, seductive plane. Longevity is very good; it’s a great fragrance for dates or a night out in the city during colder months. There are many wood/tonka/vanilla options, but for me, this is one of the best.

I smelled it fresh from the bottle, and it felt very familiar… Midnight in Paris. We’ll have to see how the drydown goes and how it performs on the skin. They say it’s better than MiP.

This Armani Code is mature: the citrus opening vanishes quickly, diving straight into vanilla and tonka bean. It feels more serious and calm than the original, which had a similar vibe but a youthful opening. While the original was for your 20s, this one is for your 30s: same seductiveness, just more experienced. I still prefer the original for its freshness and versatile sweet tandem. The downside here is that it’s a bit linear for a seductive oriental scent and might sound similar if you already own the original. If you’re looking for something more mature to complement your Code, this is perfect. 8/10

I bought it today; it really caught my attention during testing. The vanilla is noticeable—I don’t usually like it in perfumes, but few know how to use or combine it well. I liked it; it seems perfect for nightwear, for turning heads. I’ve always liked the original but never could buy it, so I won’t say which is better; I chose this one because it’s more recent.