Wood, Spice, Citrus: Some Favourite Fragrances for Man (or Woman) for Christmas

I was reading recently that fragrance companies make most of their annual sales in the few weeks before Christmas. This got me wondering how much goes untouched or is passed on to Uncle John the following Christmas. The problem is that a scent is a very personal thing. Some people won't wear it; for those that do, the same fragrance may vary slightly on different people. Buying is loaded with uncertainty. 

I don't wear colognes every day, but most of my shaving creams, moisturisers etc are scented to some extent. I prefer warm spiced/woody and fresh citrus perfumes over sweeter florals so I thought I'd have a dig around on my dressing table and in the bathroom and show you some of my favourites. I'd recommend any of these as seasonal gifts for those who prefer scents of wood, leather and spices like cinnamon and cloves or the clean smells of lime and lemon. I emphasise; this is a very personal selection based on what I happen to own.

The woodier scents start on the left and become softer and more floral (to my nose) as we move to the right. I use the Gruhme No.14 (probably my favourite and British made) and Murdock Fougere most frequently, the DR Harris Arlington, Pink After Shave and Heath Cream Shave after shaving almost daily and the more floral Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo, Colonia Pura and Floris JF for evenings out.

Applying fragrance: a guide for men

I use fragrance sparingly so that there is just a hint, a faint aroma. There's nothing worse than overpowering everyone who walks past. A subtle hint for any lady I kiss on the cheek is what I aim for. Who was it who said that she sprayed her perfume in the air and then walked through it? That's the level of application to aim for.

I occasionally use fragrances instead of deodorant. This works best when it's not too hot - for summer use proper products work best. I apply a small amount under each arm: take care not to overdo it.

If you find yourself in London I suggest a visit to the Floris store in Jermyn Street (where it's been since the eighteenth century) and to DR Harris at 29 St James's Street. Both are fascinating and historic (and smell delicious). You can try before you buy in all good stores.

Note: As far as I know, all these products are British-made with the exception of the Italian Acqua di Parma.

Gruhme No. 14: a fine fragrance for men made in the UK

Gruhme was founded in 2013 by ex-lawyer, Rob Hallmark who set out to find and make a men's fragrance that he could truly identify with and which is made in the UK. The original product has been supplemented by a slightly stronger version called No.14 giving it more longevity, perhaps for use in the evening, leaving the original to be used for more subtle day use.

I always struggle to describe scents, but this one is exceptional in being truly subtle and masculine. When first applied there is a refreshing zest of lemon which settles to a more woody, clean scent. I avoid overpowering fragrances and the subtle yet fresh scent of No.14 is to my mind a real winner. Highly recommended.

For a better description and more information, see Gruhme online.

'Bergamotto Positano' a new fragrance for men from Floris

I haven't covered many fragrances on the blog and that needs to change. I use after-shave balms and fragrances a little and am increasingly appreciating the subtle scents of some of the best (often British-made) products for men. As a newcomer to this world, I claim no expertise, but I know what I like and will bring you a few favourites when I can.

Sadly the technology is yet to exist that will enable me to waft a sample of a chosen fragrance to you sitting at your laptop, so you will have to imagine this new eau de parfum from Floris, called Bergamotto Positano. It's a subtle blend of citrus and vanilla which gradually tones down to a quiet collection of Mediterranean-inspired scents in which, for me, lemon and vanilla dominate and which linger without cloying with a delicate gingery sweetness. The official description reads, 'Top Notes: Bergamot, Marine, Mandarin. Heart Notes: Green Tea, Orange Blossom, Ginger, Vanilla. Base Notes: Amber, Spice, Ambrette, Woods, Vanilla'. This is a sophisticated product which you should try for yourself and, indeed, share with the love of your life, as it's a unisex fragrance. 

It's made by request, so is of limited availability. Its exclusiveness will appeal to many as it's hand-blended by Floris, family perfumers since 1730, at their Jermyn Street premises in London. Cost £160 for 100ml; note that stock is limited. For more information, visit Floris.

Floris also offer bespoke services that enable you to be be a guest of Floris while exploring and developing your own fragrance, meeting a member of the Floris family and enjoying a glass of champagne. More details from Floris.