Dunhill Icon Elite
Dunhill (2016)

Although the opening is not very good, the drydown is another story. At this stage the fragrance acquires a certain sophistication and maturity provided by an exquisite and creamy sandalwood and some spices in the background. The perfume went from being a teenager (opening) to a young adult (drydown) ready to face the work day.

This is a very decent flanker to the original Dunhill Icon, which is one of my favourite fragrances.
Compared to the original, the opening here is less citrusy, sans Neroli notes, and more subdued, but I find the dry-down is pleasantly similar. The notes in this blend very smoothly and nicely, like velvet.

This has more of an evening-wear, or autumn and winter cold weather feel, compared to the original, which I find to be more of a Spring parfume. I enjoy the spicy and incense like notes, and the underlying suede notes in the dry-down.

My only minor complaint with this, as with the original, is the very subtle projection, but maybe spraying more would resolve that concern.

At any rate, I like this almost as much as the original, and much more than the Rose/Oud gold bottled Icon Absolute, which I feel falls short in this Icon line.

Citric wood sandwich
Of toasty fresh vetivair
With juniper sauce.

An honest to goodness scent from Dunhill, Icon Elite comes across as a green fragrance, with the vetiver, cardamom, and pepper being quite noticeable, with a tasteful touch of smooth woods in the foundation.

Works in cooler weather and in casual occasions.

I am in the camp that enjoys this.

Yes it is synthetic, but that is the norm today. So I evaluate based on the total concept as presented.

The jus matches the bottle very well: deep, dark, metallic, a bit of shimmer here and there.
There is a dry, chalky vibe upon first sniff, and you can smell the entire composition all at once.

The ebony wood stands out to me, presenting an oud accord.
On the forums someone had mentioned Cool Water...blame the bergamot/lime/cardamom in the opening, but it is NOT Cool Water.

What you get is a true flanker: a darker or 'black' version of the original. And that is a boon IMO. I do like the Absolute in the gold bottle the best so far, having yet to try the Racing flanker.

Me likey.

An interesting hybrid in vein of CK Man and Emporio Armani He. Fresh, potent, sharp and "specific", however far from unique.

Synthetic, but not a mess. It is a well done fragrance, considering how it is. Memorable? Not really. Good? Yes.

(test wear - 31.10.2017.)

Originality 4/10
Scent 5/10
Longevity 8/10
Projection 8/10