Our take
What does Minotaure smell like?
Paloma Picasso launched Minotaure in 1992, a men's scent named after the half-man, half-bull creature. Her father, Pablo Picasso, drew and etched it again and again. The opening is surprisingly broad. Aldehydes and bergamot meet green galbanum and anisic tarragon, with a prickle of coriander. The heart is almost feminine, crossing jasmine, rose and lily of the valley. Geranium keeps one foot in the fougère tradition. The base is what people remember. Creamy sandalwood, tonka, amber and vanilla settle in. A little cedar and musk finish the picture, and the whole thing hugs the skin for hours. Warm, powdery and very much of its time. It recalls Chanel's Égoïste, released two years earlier, for that generous sandalwood. Minotaure is sweeter and less spicy. It has aged with some dignity. Fans of old-school masculine orientals will find plenty to like.
When to wear it
An evening scent for autumn and winter. One or two sprays on the chest are enough, and the vanilla base lasts into the next day.
It belongs to the Oriental / Amber, Fougère family. Minotaure is one of 2 creations by Paloma Picasso in our encyclopedia.
