Exclusif Tabac

How it Smells

Exclusif Tabac opens with a spicy ginger kick, noticeably sharper than Carolina Herrera's Mystery Tobacco. The davana and osmanthus are present, lending a fruity, almost apricot-like sweetness, but it leans slightly synthetic. The heart develops with a drier vetiver and patchouli. It's similar to the original, but lacks the smooth, refined feel. The tobacco note in the base is good, but not quite as rich or complex. It smells like tobacco absolute, whereas the original uses something smoother. I'd say it's about 88% similar, with the main differences in the opening sharpness and the overall depth.

The Performance Stats

Longevity is surprisingly decent. I get around 6-7 hours on my skin with moderate projection for the first 2 hours. After that, it sits closer to the skin, becoming a more intimate scent. It definitely performs better than some other clones I've tried. It won't fill a room, but people close to you will notice.

To Buy or Not to Buy?

Exclusif Tabac is a solid option. If you want the nuanced refinement of Mystery Tobacco, you'll have to pay the premium. But if you're looking for a good-smelling, affordable tobacco fragrance with a spicy kick, this is a strong contender. It's not a perfect dupe, and the synthetic edges are noticeable, but it's a worthwhile alternative if you're on a budget. This gets you most of the way there .