A*Men Ultra Zest, from Mugler was released in 2015. The perfumer behind this creation is Jacques Huclier and Quentin Bisch. It has the top notes of Blood Orange, Ginger, Mint, and Tangerine, middle notes of Cinnamon, Coffee, and Pepper, and base notes of Patchouli, Tonka Bean, and Vanilla.
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this fragrance unfortunately I didn't get it before release as I had missed the voice mail from my Mugler friend who was going to leak me some slightly early. (for the UK) Anyhow...It's landed in stores now, I knew exactly what to expect from this and it delivered. The top notes are juicy and sweet with blood orange and even pineapple (my sister got in my car and said "It smells of pineapple in here") then the base is classic patchouli and vanilla creamy sweetness but with a strength and undeniable Mugler DNA. Having said that it wouldn't surprise me in the slightest if AMen haters could be a fan of this. The base has distinctly more vanilla than most AMen flankers, well it certainly seems that way in any case. I ran the full gamete of emotions with this scent from liking the obvious top notes I'd expected, to absolutely loving Ultra zest and dreaming up gushing reviews to post here, then to the realization that I'd spoken (thought) too soon and that Ultra Zest is actually a mediocre affair, perhaps even a disappointing flanker. The truth is after several wears now that not only does this fit a much needed niche of fresh orientals, versatile enough to wear on a hot day but also still cozy and warming. Ultra Zest's citrus top notes are lasting, this is an important quality for me. I'm not someone who is obsessed with other peoples comments on my fragrance choice but having worn it 3 times over the Easter weekend I received an unprecedented amount of compliments. Seriously, even from strangers in the local shop, friends and family and perhaps the biggest praise imaginable from my mum. (who is very hard to please at the best of times...in EVERY regard.) The base dries down very soft and inoffensive but still with hints of zesty orange, it's great. I've toned down my review now to reflect what this fragrance is...a good wearable fragrance and welcome addition to the Mugler collection with good performance.