FRAGRANCE | Grand Soir EDP by Maison Francis Kurkdjian is both sophisticated and accessible

halfwhiteboy - Grand Soir EDP by Maison Francis Kurkdjian 01

Grand Soir is arguably one of Maison Francis Kurkdjian's more popular fragrances, and for good reason. However, it wasn't love at first sniff for me. I remember a few years back when an SA asked me to try it, I was turned off by the resulting sharpness on my skin. I don't know if there was just something off that day because I've warmed up to it eventually. Moreover, that sharpness I initially encountered is not as piercing to my nose anymore. This shouldn't be anything new because I've had similar experiences before. After all, Penhaligon's The Uncompromising Sohan also didn't sit well with me at first but now I love it.

With a gorgeously rich and luminous amber color, Grand Soir's juice perfectly captures the warmth and general vibe of the fragrance. It starts off sweet and resinous, with a slightly boozy and spicy element on the side. It's not overtly boozy, though, but just like in Kalemat by Arabian Oud, there's something about the blending of its sweet notes that gives off this scent. The spiciness, on the other hand, carries a peppery sharpness similar to Irish Leather by Memo Paris and Replica Jazz Club by Maison Martin Margiela, only a little softer.

After several minutes, a smooth vanilla slowly emerges, adding its own sweet dimension to the overall scent. With very little development, this creation may appear simplistic yet its cohesive blend of different sweet notes punctuated by some spice evokes an air of sophistication. But then it also manages to stay warm and accessible at the same time. Projection is mostly moderate, maybe for 2 to 4 hours, and then gradually softens. Nevertheless, you'll enjoy occasional whiffs of it throughout the day. Perfectly unisex, Grand Soir is a must-try. If at first you don't like it, just give it another shot or two before giving up on it.

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