Encode Blue

Notes & Nuances

Encode Blue opens with a blast of bergamot and a definite peppery zing. The clary sage is there, adding a herbal green lift, but it’s less refined than Montblanc Explorer. Think Explorer, but with slightly rougher edges. The heart leans heavily into a smoky, almost tire-rubber leather. It's a bit more pronounced and synthetic here. The vetiver provides earthiness, but struggles to cut through the dominant leather accord. The dry down is where Encode Blue really tries to mimic the ambroxan-akigalawood of Explorer. It's largely successful, though the patchouli base is a touch more… obvious. I’d say it captures around 89% of the Explorer vibe, but with less finesse.

To Buy or Not to Buy?

If you’re drawn to Explorer’s crisp, modern masculinity but recoil at the price tag, Encode Blue is a very viable option. It captures the essence without emptying your wallet. While it lacks the refinement of the original, it's a solid daily wear for the guy who wants to project understated confidence without screaming. Is Explorer worth the 10x price difference? Unless you're a fragrance snob, probably not. Encode Blue gets the job done.

The Performance Stats

Longevity is surprisingly decent. I get a solid 6-7 hours on skin, with moderate projection for the first hour. After that, it sits closer, creating a personal bubble. It's office-appropriate.