Top 10 Fragrances for Men

Part of Brunello Cucinelli’s new Incanti Poetici collection, Vento Ardente Eau de Parfum is inspired by a poem by Alessandro Manzoni – The Fifth of May, an elegy to Napoleon Bonaparte. It’s crafted by master perfumer Jordi Fernández, known for his innovative approach and deep knowledge of the finest ingredients. Opening with notes of spicy saffron, it reveals floral tones of Turkish rose supported by a base of leather and woody cypriol for a finish that is rich, warm and especially long-lasting. A choice as absorbing as your favourite book.

How is your knowledge of alchemy? Gucci’s The Alchemist’s Garden collection takes inspiration from the four elements of the natural world. Named after the Osmanthus flower, in bloom for only a few days in spring, the new Osmanthus Nectar Eau de Parfum is infused with delicate apricot and florals that give way to a creamy, woody base and a touch of dry spice. Its red glass flacon is modelled on the first perfumery containers used by antique apothecaries.

Office attire doesn’t end at the power suit and business watch. Look to Creed’s Aventus Eau de Parfum as the final piece of the puzzle. The brand’s signature scent, it celebrates confidence and strength – as seen in the mythical warrior who heralds the bottle. Head notes of invigorating lemon and pink pepper lead into pineapple and jasmine, balanced by a darker base of musk, oakmoss and cedarwood. Your deal will be closed in no time.

Each scent in Comme des Garçons’ Play series bears the brand’s playful heart logo – also seen on its sneakers, T-shirts and hoodies. Just like the menswear of its main line, Black defies convention with a minimalist blend of spicy, smoky and earthy elements. Expect top notes of black pepper and pepperwood, a heart of violet, thyme and black tea, resting on a base of birch bark tar and tree moss. For the story behind Comme des Garçons, read three Japanese designers to know.

You’ll know of Bentley’s world famous cars. But did you know it also made fragrance? The new Bentley Beyond collection is inspired by its founder’s love of exploration – at 14 years old, Walter Owen Bentley cycled a staggering 130 miles from London to Norfolk in a single day. The Wild Vetiver scent takes you on a journey to Java, the Indonesian island, with notes of bergamot, vetiver and amberwood, designed to evoke its tropical rainforests, ancient temples and volcanoes.

Aesop’s latest Virēre Eau de Parfum is named after the Latin verbs for ‘to be green’ and ‘to sprout new growth’. Fresh and verdant, it’s inspired by sitting under fragrant fig trees while sipping green tea in the summer. This is achieved through a range of accords, from green galbanum and bergamot to woody mastic and fresh green maté and hay – providing ‘moments of treasured simplicity that replenish and restore’ says the brand.

Is there anything more wholesome than the smell of the English countryside? Jo Malone London’s new English Pear & Sweat Pea Cologne is designed to evoke a sun-dappled orchard. Opening with notes of fresh pear, its heart is infused with soft sweat pea resting on a base of clean white musk. It also combines brilliantly with the brand’s Assam & Grapefruit and Peony & Blush Suede colognes if you’re into fragrance layering.

Malin+Goetz Leather Eau de Parfum is inspired by the centuries-old practice of fragrancing artisanal leather goods. Infused with muted florals and rustic wood, this immediately recognisable scent mimics a well-worn vintage find – a refined leather belt or wallet, say, that will only get better with time.

“It took me a while to understand my water lilies,” said Claude Monet. “Then suddenly I had a revelation and clearly saw these wonders on my pond.” Inspired by the impressionist’s masterful Water Lilies series, Diptyque’s Lilyphéa Eau de Parfum celebrates the flower with fresh notes of cardamom, violet leaves and sweet vanilla. On the bottle and sleeve, you’ll spot drawings and watercolours by Irish artist Nigel Peake – as exceptional on the eye as on the nose.

A man sometimes needs to just step away from it all – or, at least, feel like he is. Evoking a stroll through majestic woodland, TOM FORD’s new Bois Pacifique Eau de Parfum is infused with a spicy woody blend that instantly conjures a sense of calm, vitality and light. Brilliant akigalawood works to highlight the fresh notes of turmeric, while the smooth richness of olibanum essence and orris butter combine sandalwood, cedar and oakwood: cool, grounding, and always head turning.

There are big brand releases and trending bestsellers – but what about those scents that stand out among those in-the-know? Discover our favourite fragrances that fly under the radar.

Whether you’re buying for a big birthday, Father’s Day or ‘just because’ look no further for gifting inspiration for the special men in your life.