Stallion Leather Suede by Carolina Herrera

This is what most fragrances with the ‘Private Collection’ seal should be… what a masterpiece you’ve created, CH! A huge leap and noticeable improvement over the original Stallion Leather, with a realistic leather accord that dominates almost the entire composition. The opening is incredible: a rough but smooth brown leather texture, nothing smoky or harsh, with beige and yellow undertones still drying. The cardamom adds brightness and a pinch of spice, while the clove provides a cool touch that softens the sensation. The spicy part is sensual; on my skin, it has a slight smoky nuance, but subtle, nothing burnt. The vanilla, thank God, is pale; together with the tonka, they create a creamy, velvety base that’s warm and cozy without being gourmand. The tonka stands out with its bitter almond aftertaste: different, enveloping, with character but still friendly. Imagine a noble horse with new tack, a thoroughbred freshly groomed enjoying dusty rides with its rider… beautiful and surprising! For me, one of the best leathers of the last few years. Jordi, after the disaster of Crivelli with Oud Maracujá and other embarrassments, this is your vindication, your rebirth as a composer. I admire you, I follow you, and I forgive your past sins.

The best leather fragrance I’ve ever smelled. I like it so much I want to cry. Don’t expect much evolution; it doesn’t need it. It’s perfectly crafted and makes total sense. Its true evolution happens with every sniff. The opening is a strong, robust, and VERY refined leather with perfect power; just before it intensifies, creamy and slightly alcoholic notes kick in to soften and round out the scent with grace, giving it depth. It’s like taking the best of Tuscan Leather, Ombre Leather, and La Yuqawam and adding an extra touch of finesse. It has class and character. One spray lasted about 8 hours on my skin and projected just enough to be noticeable without being invasive. You can get it at Palacio de Hierro for under 7,000 pesos.