Amouage Opus 1

First off, a big Thank You to my friend Mimi for yet another generous sample package sent my way ! You are terrific Mims and so is your taste in fragrances.

Since my dear friend sent me samples of Opus I, II and III, I must begin with Opus 1 and see if the creations meet my expectations. That may sound a bit arrogant, but I have high hopes for these releases and want them to deliver. As luxurious as this house is, there has been some near misses along with the opulence.

Opus I starts off with an impressive opening volley of notes. They blanket you and emit that smooth denseness I look for. The top smells like nothing I have encountered before. I wouldn't say it's incendiary, but it's very good.. The listed Bigarade, Plum and Cardamon are excellent together and seem to mushroom outward with exceptional projection. The floral heart develops rather quickly, but on me, the top still manages to stay afloat the sweet heart accord.

The florals are very clean, sweet and transparently loud. Yes.....I know....."transparently loud"? Well, that is the impression left with me. Opus I doesn't lose me here. I just wish there was some earthiness or contrast that would be introduced alongside the array of Ylang, Rose, Jasmine, Tuberose and Muguet. It's almost like it is too much of a good thing......and this accord has some serious hang time.

Now.....as good as Opus I is constructed and smells, it leans too far feminine for me once the heart enters the picture. The opening and drydown I rather enjoy immensely, but the heart makes this tough for me to wear.

The base lists Papyrus, Cedarwood, Guaiacwood, Frankincense, Tonka, Sandalwood and Vetiver. The woody triumvirate is low key once the base kicks in. It's a mellow wood accord with incense and a very nice contribution from vetiver. Hours after application, I am aware of how much I like the drydown and wouldn't mind an entire fragrance smelling like this sequence.

Opus I has very nice sillage and acceptable longevity. It took hours for the base accord to make an entrance, validating just how impressive and large that floral heart really is. This is well made and smells great. I wouldn't purchase it for myself since it's more feminine that I care to don, but that shouldn't deter anyone from at least sampling this release. I give Opus I a thumbs up for the female persuasion.