Black XS, from Rabanne was released in 2005. The perfumer behind this creation is Christian Dussoulier, Olivier Cresp, and Rosendo Mateu. It has the top notes of Lemon and Sage, middle notes of Cardamom, Cinnamon, Praline, and Tolu Balsam, and base notes of Ambergris, Brazilian Rosewood, and Patchouli.
I kinda love the smell of Black XS it's sweet, fruity and densely woody with a hint of spice. The opening is sweet, sharp and quite unsettled frankly then when it does the fruitiness is really nice and a strange mixture of citrus sharpness and a strawberry note that is vaguely reminiscent of the fondant soft centres in roses/quality street chocolates. The dry spice coming from sage and a definite cardamom note. The overriding patchouli gives it a slight chocolately vibe and the rosewood base which to me makes this fruit/wood combo remind me a little of something like Thierry Mugler B*Men. I really like Black XS it's distinctive & different but I just don't think I could see myself wearing it. I've got about 5 sample vials so maybe a few more wears and I might want to add it to the collection if it grows on me sufficiently.