Our take
What does A*Men Pure Malt smell like?
Mugler launched A*Men Pure Malt in 2009 as a limited edition in the Pure series. Jacques Huclier, who co-wrote A*Men in 1996, composed it. The original box spoke of a perfume aged in an oak cask, and the idea holds up on skin. The opening is fruity, with an almost candied orange and a quiet bergamot. Then malt and whisky arrive, round and slightly sweet. Coffee and patchouli remind you this is A*Men territory, only gentler. The base is the most unusual part. A peat note brings an earthy smoke, softened by amber, vanilla and musk. Dry cedar holds the structure together. Compared with A*Men, which is rawer and more tarry, Pure Malt feels warm and almost cosy. Distribution has been patchy, and fans say older batches were richer and more smoky.
When to wear it
A winter evening scent to wear with a wool coat. Two sprays, as it projects for a long time.
It belongs to the Oriental / Amber, Woody family. A*Men Pure Malt is one of 23 creations by Mugler in our encyclopedia.
