Wear this several times, then several times more before deciding whether you like it. Most likely you'll start with a gasp and a grimace but end up with a lifelong love story.
Old non-magnetic cap is a magical spice explosion that dries down wonderfully to a creamy sandlewood heavy base, newer version is still good, but nowhere near as magical. As this one didn't survive long enough to get the flat boxes, you have to be careful which one you buy (especially with the prices now). I have 100ml of newer version, which, OK fine I'll wear it, no problem, and 25ml of the precious, wondrous original vintage with clip cap. I'll be heartbroken when that's gone.
I'm so in love with Amouage on the whole, I figured they could do no wrong in my eyes. Even the one I don't like is fascinating in its composition but sadly Fate does not have me as mesmerised as Interlude (which is simply magnificent!) but it hasn't let me down either especially on the complexity front. The spices in the top of this are very prominent if you don't like Indian food and cumin you won't appreciate this. Luckily I do! Fate is quite challenging at first because of those prominent spices, 20 minutes later though and they settle down and fade to reveal a gorgeous heart, I mean so many notes, it becomes like their other fragrances a constantly moving tapestry. The heart is stunning I get incense, sandalwood, a hint of fruit and rose too...there's lots more in there and its hard to pick out individual notes. All I can say for sure is you are rewarded in the dry down after a bold and polarising opening. Update: wearing this again and I'm in love!!! The dry down is very fruity which is unexpected and it's pretty light compared to others in the Amouage range. After trying the likes of jubilation, epic and memoir this one faded into obscurity but Fate is certainly back in favour with me.
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