Montblanc Explorer – Trendy (Jordi Fernandez, Antoine Maisondieu & Olivier Pescheux, 2019)

Source: Montblanc


I could imagine the hypothetical first briefing with perfumers at Montblanc. “Guys, we need something that everybody will like and we can sell. Clean as a shower gel with some slightly darker elements. For business occasions, for leisure, for nightclubbing. The perfumers responded: “Do you like Aventus and Sauvage?”
Explorer is like a best-of compilation of trends in perfumery nowadays. It takes already known and beautiful Aventus DNA and pairs it with the molecule of the moment – Ambroxan that gives that shower gel, musky and clean vibe. Explorer opens up with sweet bergamot and this fleeting leathery notes, to my nose very similar to Zara Vibrant Leather. Like Jerome Epinette was the part of the team. While Vibrant Leather continues to follow Aventus’ footsteps, Explorer deviates a little bit and successfully introduces a note of clary sage which I really like. From now on Ambroxan takes the main play, accompanied by a light touch of pepper and some discreet synthetic woody and green patchouli aspects.
I have to admit, Explorer smells good. The scent profile is pleasing and versatile. Every occasion is a good occasion for Explorer. It is not good as Creed Aventus. I personally even prefer Zara Vibrant Leather, but somehow in my opinion is upgrade from Dior Sauvage and Dior Homme
2020. There is nothing to dislike in Explorer, except for the complete lack of originality. Does somebody with a bog collection needs it? No, but Explorer is an ideal fragrance for people who only needs one fragrance and wanted to smell good, trendy and fun. Nothing more, but nothing less. And the bottle looks great.

Longevity / Projection
Solid (5-7 hours) / Moderate

Suggested wearing
Spring, summer and autumn / Every possible occasion

Alternatives
Creed Aventus – the original success story
Frapin – The Orchid Man
Zara Vibrant Leather – unexpectedly good Aventus-like creation
Dior Sauvage – 21st century liquid shower gel
Other tribute-to fragrances like Versace Dylan Blue or dozen creations from Arabic houses

Pros
Smells good, clean and fun
Easy to wear
Good for almost every occasion
Great bottle

Cons
Complete lack of originality
Just another take on the most successful contemporary fragrances

Rating
6/10

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