Building a Scent Wardrobe on a Budget? The Montblanc Individuel Fragrance Review

I'm in a lucky position here. Over time I have been sent fragrances on for review on the blog. I would say 90% of those I have kept, the ones I'm indifferent about often get given away as gifts. It's a very rare day when I actually buy fragrances anymore. That said, I couldn't resist snapping up a bottle of Montblanc Individuel once I saw the price crash on Amazon. 

It's not a fragrance that lasts, but I remember buying it way back when it came out in 2003 and it got a lot of compliments. I remember once on a date that I ... well let’s just say it was a success. But am I slave to nostalgia? Is this a scent for a more mature Carl Thompson? Should I get some bespoke shirts made for the dogs? Sorry scrap the last one, I was just on a roll. 

The answer is YES! To the fragrance, not the dog shirts. It's a great beginners scent because it has a great age range. Not too sweet, although youthful. It's very versatile and could definitely be worn casually or formally. 

Top notes are Lavender, Cinnamon, Pineapple, Juniper Berries, Mint, Bergamot, Rosemary, Coriander and Cardamom; middle notes are Orange Blossom, Violet, Geranium and Jasmine; base notes are Raspberry, Vanilla, Sandalwood, Dark Chocolate, Musk, Amber, Patchouli, Vetiver and Oakmoss.

It's an awesome price point and it's very much a winter scent because of that crisp woodiness that comes through above all the other notes. It has a bit of forest floor to it. Will pair well with a red wine and pasta meal. First date, business lunch, maybe not an aqua fragrance. Too complex for a 'post workout' scent. 

When building a fragrance wardrobe it's key to have an all-rounder. One that is versatile without being too vanilla. This isn't the best woody fragrance that you'll ever own. It might even be the worst, but you'll not smell out of place and when someone asks what are you wearing, it's always good to say Montblanc.