by Valentino
Valentino Uomo Noir Absolu is a deeply textured, warm woody-spicy fragrance characterized by its smooth, creamy sandalwood base and a spicy opening of cinnamon, pepper, and incense. The scent evolves into a rich, meditative drydown where the sandalwood balances the warmth of cinnamon and subtle smoky incense, creating a polished, yet slightly opaque aura. While some have noted a faint coconut or sweet gourmand quality in the drydown, it is more accurately described as a refined, dark sandalwood with a hint of sweet creaminess, likely due to the interplay of cinnamon and sandalwood. The fragrance is unisex in character, with its depth and sophistication appealing especially to those who appreciate modern oriental scents. Longevity is exceptional, lasting up to 12 hours, and sillage is moderate to strong, particularly in cooler weather. It performs best during winter or as a night-time wear, delivering a cool, mature, and elegant presence. Despite being discontinued, the scent remains highly regarded, often compared to Tom Ford Black Orchid without the overwhelming patchouli, and praised for its quality, elegance, and performance.