Royal Tobac

To Buy or Not to Buy?

This fragrance is best suited for cold weather, specifically late fall or winter evenings. It’s too heavy and cloying for daytime wear, especially in warmer climates. This might work well for a dimly lit bar or a casual evening gathering, but I would not recommend it for formal occasions or close encounters. Proceed with caution.

First Impressions & Dry Down

Royal Tobac opens with a blast of something akin to root beer spiked with black licorice. The initial olibanum attempts to mimic incense, but lands closer to a dusty antique store. The cardamom is present, adding a whisper of spice that quickly fades. The heart is where the tobacco note comes in, but it’s a rough, unrefined tobacco leaf – think dried pipe tobacco left out in the sun too long. The fenugreek adds a strange, savory edge that clashes with the vanilla. The drydown is an awkward marriage of sweet vanilla and bitter myrrh, creating a powdery, slightly musty effect. It attempts to emulate the original, but falls short by presenting a less refined and less complex aroma overall.

Longevity & Projection

Longevity is impressive; I got a solid 8 hours on skin, projecting about an arm's length for the first 2 hours before settling closer. I wore it during a rainy afternoon at a coffee shop and found it overwhelming.