Happy Labor Day to all the US folks out there.  I’m having a quiet day off as we’re heading off to vacation later this week so I’m doing all of those things that require preparation:  loading books on my Kindle, making sure that my camera batteries are charged, washing clothes, etc.  Rather dull, but necessary. Of course, all of this dullness needed some help in pepping me up.  So, in the midst of cleaning up my office, I went in my “unsampled” bag and pulled out Dia Man.  I knew that an Amouage scent would be nice and strong and since I am doing chores all day I wanted to smell fabulous doing them.

WHAT I SMELL: A warm incense (very discreet and light), with bitter orange and I believe cardamon (based on the notes listing).  It smells like a modern/traditional scent, in that it’s elegant and luxurious.  It’s also surprisingly warm.  I was expecting something more heavily floral.  After a bit, an interesting plum notes barely sneaks out which adds more depth along with the peony.  For the next couple of hours, Dia stays in this warm slightly spicy amberish floral stage that is extremely luxurious and inviting.  I have the feeling if I was in the office today I would be asked what I was wearing.  In the end, what I was left with a nice and pleasant and slightly powdery woody floral, it’s very serene and I find it to be a bit feminine.  Of course since this is an Amouage fragrance, it has great longevity and sillage.

Top notes: cistus, bigarade, cardamom, frankincense, labdanum
Heart notes: peony, ylang ylang, orris, plum
Base notes: vetiver, leather, patchouli, amber, palissander

WHAT IT SMELLS LIKE TO ME:  I am picturing a 1920’s “Out of Africa” scene.  Exotic, yet refined colonial atmosphere in the plains of Africa.

THREE ADJECTIVES THAT DESCRIBE DIA MAN:  warm, privileged, fluid

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT DIA MAN: From Top to Bottom, Eiderdown Press

BOTTOM LINE:  Amouage fragrances are quality personified and Dia Man is no exception.  As good as this is, it’s probably not something that I would add to my collection as I wouldn’t wear it enough to justify the hefty price.  But I’ll know that I’ll be back to visit every now and then!

• Bone Rating: 4 out of 5 possible bones
• Scent: Woody Floral Musk
• Classification: Masculine
• Expense: $260 for 50ml EdP