Our take
What does Armani Mania pour Homme smell like?
Giorgio Armani launched Armani Mania pour Homme in 2002, a woody spicy eau de toilette attributed to Francis Kurkdjian. It has since been discontinued, which makes it a minor rarity. The opening pairs juicy mandarin with saffron, whose leathery, dry honey smell is quick to show. Citrus leaves keep the start green and lively. Then the heart turns to wood. Cedar and vetiver draw a straight, dry line with a hint of smoke. Amber and musk follow to soften the edges without adding sugar. It sits far from the orientals of its day. Armani Code, released two years later, bet on tonka and seduction. Mania stays drier and more restrained, almost austere. Think of a man in a grey suit rather than a nightclub. The saffron opening is the part to remember. More than twenty years on, it still smells modern.
When to wear it
For the office in autumn or a quiet dinner. Two or three sprays, and the longevity is decent.
It belongs to the Woody, Spicy family. Armani Mania pour Homme is one of 46 creations by Giorgio Armani in our encyclopedia.
