Year: 2014
Notes: cardamom, cinnamon, cypress, frankincense, cedar, sandalwood, musk
Comment: Black I is part of the Black Collection
Established by Ali Aljaberi, and using the expertise of perfumer Jean-Claude Astier (responsible for many of M. Micallef's fragrances), AJ Arabia is a relatively new niche house from the United Arab Emirates. Available as a parfum extrait, one isn't particularly impressed with Black I.
Smelling noticeably sweet, the listed notes aren't much of an indication of its general aroma. Yes, there's some cedar, sandalwood and artificial musk present, but the other accords are too obscure. Some frankincense and cypress occasionally come to the fore but that's about it. With discreet projection and good longevity, one fails to notice any quality, uniqueness or mastery in the composition. Instead, what one detects verges dangerously close to a woody detergent freshness.
Ultimately, Black I is simply a Montale wannabe – housed in a lavish-looking bottle, and with a pseudo parfum extrait status, to justify its expensive price tag.
Smelling noticeably sweet, the listed notes aren't much of an indication of its general aroma. Yes, there's some cedar, sandalwood and artificial musk present, but the other accords are too obscure. Some frankincense and cypress occasionally come to the fore but that's about it. With discreet projection and good longevity, one fails to notice any quality, uniqueness or mastery in the composition. Instead, what one detects verges dangerously close to a woody detergent freshness.
Ultimately, Black I is simply a Montale wannabe – housed in a lavish-looking bottle, and with a pseudo parfum extrait status, to justify its expensive price tag.
