Leather so Rare

Notes & Nuances

Leather so Rare aims for Guerlain's Cuir Beluga, and it gets surprisingly close, maybe 81%. The opening has a similar aldehydic *pop* and a juicy tangerine note, though it's a tad sharper, more synthetic than Beluga's smooth citrus. The heart introduces the immortelle and patchouli, which lean slightly more herbal and less refined compared to the original's velvety character. The drydown? Vanilla suede. It’s there, but lacks the airy, almost creamy texture of Cuir Beluga. You get the *idea*, just a touch rougher.

Projection Power

Expect moderate performance. I get around 5-6 hours on skin, with projection that's noticeable for the first hour before settling closer. Not a beast mode fragrance, but decent . It performs like a fragrance in its price class.

Final Thoughts

For the money, Leather so Rare is a solid buy if you crave the Cuir Beluga profile but balk at the price tag. It captures the essence, but don't expect a 1:1 recreation. The synthetic edges are present, but not overwhelming. If you want a genuinely luxurious experience, save for the Guerlain. But if you want a very good impression for 1/10th the cost, this is a pragmatic choice. It's worth considering if you want a daily-wearable, forgiving alternative.