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Cuir Intense
by Guerlain
Cuir Intense by Guerlain is a powerful, intense leather fragrance with high sillage and exceptional longevity, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate bold, linear scents. It opens with a sharp, animalic leather note that can be overwhelming, carrying undertones of gasoline, tannic forest, and wet leather, combined with florals like osmanthus and ylang-ylang that soften the impact over time. As it dries down, the scent evolves into a dry, powdery, woody base with tobacco, sandalwood, and musk, giving it a refined, rustic elegance that lingers for hours. Its performance is legendary—projecting strongly for 12+ hours even after multiple washes, and even a single spray can leave a noticeable trace of leather on clothing and skin. The fragrance is best suited for fall and winter wear, its weight making it inappropriate for warm climates or casual settings. While some describe the floral opening as comparable to old skin salves or crayons, others find it distracting or overly medicinal. Despite its thematic claims of exclusivity and luxury, it’s regarded more as a heirloom leather scent rather than a true niche beast—accessible yet unapologetically masculine, true to the Guerlain lineage of opulence and depth.
Pros
- +Extremely long-lasting and powerful sillage with projection that lasts 12+ hours
- +A true perfume experience with a dominant, realistic, raw leather character that stands apart from lighter or sweeter leather scents
- +Highly balanced with a powdery, sweet dry-down that softens the initial intensity and makes it more wearable over time
Cons
- −Overwhelming opening with strong animalic, petrol-like, and tannic notes that can be off-putting
- −Difficult to wear in warm weather or in casual settings due to its heavy sillage
- −Misleading for beginner leather enthusiasts due to its harshness and linear structure—it's not subtle or complex, but rather direct and intense