TAG Uomo Nero

First Impressions & Dry Down

TAG Uomo Nero opens with a blast of fizzing bergamot and slightly acrid black pepper, reminiscent of lemon floor cleaner rather than sophisticated citrus. The heart attempts a floral sweetness with lily-of-the-valley, but it's immediately overwhelmed by a medicinal, cough-syrup-like patchouli. There is a vague resemblance to the DNA it's trying to emulate, but the synthetic ingredients are distractingly prominent. The drydown eventually settles into a powdery vanilla with a somewhat synthetic ambergris accord and whisper of incense. It loses most of the complexity of the inspiration, ending on a simplistic, slightly cloying sweetness. Where the original is a multifaceted gem, this is a rough, imitation stone.

Is it Worth It?

If this scent were a character in a movie, it would be a dollar-store Batman impersonator at a children's birthday party: recognizable, but ultimately disappointing.

Projection Power

I get about 5 hours of wear from TAG Uomo Nero. Projection is moderate for the first hour, reaching about an arm's length, then quickly receding to a skin scent. I tested this during a moderately warm day, and the sweetness became overwhelming in the sun. This is probably better suited for cooler evenings or indoor use, though I can't say I'd choose to wear it regardless.