Honest Review of Montblanc Men’s Fragrances

Montblanc, The Brand.

Montblanc is renowned for its quality craftsmanship. There is something about closing a deal with Montblanc’s $460 silky smooth pen in your hand on an oak wood table in a boardroom. Their quality craftsmanship which start in 1903 has extended far beyond pens and includes leather accessories, watches, sunglasses, and fragrances.

Montblanc is a story of survival and reaching peaks. The name Montblanc, occasionally referred to as Mont Blanc, is inspired by the highest peak in the Alps. The signature white star emblem of the brand is recognized worldwide.

With its ever-changing landscape, first starting in pens, then leather, and finally into fragrances. Montblanc Colognes have become staples in the industry since they entered 2001. Today, Montblanc has launched 40+ unique perfumes and as part of their high-quality craftsmanship has partnered with some of the greatest noses in the industry.

Let’s dive right into some of their best fragrances.

Montblanc Colognes Review

1. Montblanc Explorer – the go-to for Montblanc
2. Montblanc Individuel – the unique winter scent
3. Montblanc Presence – the perfect fall scent, but still good for anytime
4. Montblanc Legend EDT – the fiercely sweet and youthful scent
5. Montblanc Legend EDP – the more masculine and powerful big brother to Legend EDT

Montblanc Explorer

If someone tells you their signature scent is Montblanc without specifying which fragrance, they are most likely talking about Montblanc Explorer Cologne. This is their bread and butter and deservingly so.

What Does Explorer Smell Like?

Montblanc Explorer bursts onto the scene with a crisp, invigorating wave of citrusy bergamot, embodying the spirit of adventure and sophistication. Montblanc Explorer follows a familiar formula found in many renowned men's fragrances, blending top notes of bergamot and pink pepper with heart and base notes of vetiver, ambroxan, patchouli, and woody aromas. At its base, this is a very much a fantastic smelling woody citrus fragrance.

When to Use Explorer?

This is a mass-market signature scent. Montblanc Explorer is versatile enough for both day and night. Its fresh opening makes it suitable for the office or casual daytime activities, while its deeper, woody base notes lend themselves well to evening wear and formal occasions. You can wear this anytime, anywhere.

Who Is Explorer For?

This fragrance is designed for the modern man who enjoys a blend of classic and contemporary scents. It suits those who appreciate a refined, yet adventurous scent that is neither too overpowering nor too subtle. This fragrance’s citrus opening lends itself to a younger cohort but is versatile enough to be worn by a man who wants an energizing burst.

Performance of Explorer

Although some complain about the performance of Montblanc Explorer, I find that this fragrance does the trick. Since many people compare this to the powerhouse beast of Creed Aventus, I believe they expect a similar performance. This being a classic signature scent that you can wear almost anywhere, the performance is just right, with a moderate sillage and about 6-8 hours of longevity.

What Are Other People Saying of Explorer?

People like this fragrance because it is “fresh and uplifting” and quite frankly “Wow this smells just like Creed Aventus.” Other than the comparisons, people refer to this as one of the greatest mass-market fragrances of all time. It is very inoffensive and appealing to everyone. On the other hand, few people do mention that the blend is on the edgier side with strong bursts of citrus and pepper in the opening.

Is Explorer Worth It for the Money?

Absolutely. 

Montblanc Individuel  

This is another one of those Montblanc Classics. Launched in 2003, this fragrance shines in its unique way.

What Does Individuel Smell Like?

With its light, airy embrace, Individuel offers a refreshing opening, where juniper berries and lavender combine to evoke the crispness of freshly laundered linen. This scent might remind you of fresh clean clothes right out of the dryer. The base notes of vanilla, chocolate, and sandalwood make this a comforting scent that works well in the cooler months.

When to Use the Perfume?

As we just mentioned, this is a great winter cologne that is very versatile. Its inoffensive nature and clean fresh DNA make it perfect for the office or gym.

Who Is the Perfume For?

This perfume is perfect for a young casual guy who likes to take care of himself. The sweet notes of Raspberry and pineapple work very well for someone to come off as a playful guy. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a balance of fresh, floral, and woody notes, and who want a versatile fragrance that transitions well from day to night. If you enjoy Joop Homme or Creed Original Santal then this fragrance is for you.

Performance of the Perfume

This fragrance on my skin lasted me about 6 hours and on the clothes, it lasted about 8-10 hours. It offered a moderate sillage that can be smelled from about 3-4 feet away in the first 3 hours and then projects in a more close to the-skin aroma.   

What Are Other People Saying?

People love how this fragrance tends to uplift the spirit. Most people talk about either wearing it to the office or the gym and find it to be versatile. Some people complained about it being too dense for summer, so I would steer clear of wearing it in particularly hot weather.

Is It Worth It for the Money?

For under $30, this is a great deal to add to your collection. If you want a good, non-offensive uplifting cologne to wear out and about, then this is well worth it.

Montblanc Presence  

Montblanc Presence was launched in 2001 as the first perfume they created. If you like cinnamon, then this is the scent for you. This is an ambery warm cinnamon-like fragrance. Imagine a warm apple cider with a cinnamon stick. It is perfect for a sunny day in October.

What Does the Perfume Smell Like?

Presence captivates with its warm, spicy embrace, where the richness of cinnamon melds seamlessly with subtle spices, and apple creating a distinctly comforting and inviting aura. In the opening, the cinnamon is balanced with cardamom and ginger while it settles more with sweet apple and floral scents. At this point, the fragrance gets a little powdery. The final spice comes mostly from tonka and musk giving it the cashmere embrace that is so classic with a warm spicy fragrance. It’s pretty unique, but if it smells like anything it’s JPG Le Male.

When to Use the Perfume?

This is an absolute fall daytime fragrance. Nothing screams fall like cinnamon and apples. It is versatile enough to be worn at any moment, but if you are the type to change your fragrances often, then let this be your fall scent.

Who Is the Perfume For?

This perfume is for someone who wants something different, and they wants to be unique. If you do not like cinnamon, then I would steer clear away from this one, but if that’s your thing then go all in for it. It is elegant and sophisticated in a good way, and not in a way that you have to dress up, although you could if you would like.

Performance of the Perfume

Montblanc's Presence gives us both moderate sillage and longevity. It lasts roughly 6 hours and projects nicely for about 1-2. It is unique and intimate and will get noticed for its nuance.

What Are Other People Saying?

People love this fragrance for its addictively unique character. Its DNA is not so similar to other masculine scents that I can put my finger on. Some people complain that it might be too old-fashioned for them and that it is not for everyone.

Is It Worth It for the Money?

Well, that depends on what you are looking for. If you want a unique scent, love cinnamon, and want a new warm spicy scent in your collection, then go for it, you will be happy you did. This fragrance coming in at under $25 is well worth the price tag. 

Montblanc Legend EDT   

Montblanc Legend EDT is the perfect fruity and sweet fragrance for any young man looking to freshen up their wardrobe. It is versatile, it is very likable, and a great compliment-getter.

What Does the Perfume Smell Like?

Legend EDT dazzles with a lively fusion of lavender and pineapple, delivering a fresh, fruity aroma that’s as clean as a spring morning. If you have ever smelled Fierce by Abercrombie and Fitch, then you know exactly what this fragrance smells like. In a smell test, I could not tell the difference. The dried fruits paired with the lavender are a great combination in this blend. It’s fresh and will not harm.

When to Use This Perfume?

When you speak of versatility, this is one of those. This fragrance really can be worn whenever. Summer, Fall, Winter, or Spring. You can wear it day or night.

Who Is the Perfume For?

This is and should be a signature scent for any younger man. Anywhere from teen years to early 20s will make the cut. This is a handsome scent, so if you want to feel handsome and dress up what you have on, then this is for you.

Performance of the Perfume

The performance on this is similar to the other Montblanc’s we’ve reviewed so far. It gets about 6-8 hours of longevity but it projects a little better without being offensive. You will get about 1-2 hours of solid projection.

What Are Other People Saying?

People like wearing this cologne in a more elegant or formal setting although they do mention its versatility. They love being complimented on it and appreciate the fresh fruity clean smell. Some prefer something more unique saying that this fragrance is too popular and too similar to Fierce for their liking. Some felt that they expected better performance and have chosen to go for the EDP instead. We’ll talk about that one next.

Is It Worth It for the Money?

At $35 this is a great fragrance to have in your collection for when you want to feel youthful and handsome. This is a great gift idea for any young man and they will probably love you for it. Well worth the price tag. 

Montblanc Legend EDP

Montblanc Legend EDP was launched in 2020, as the beast mode counterpart to Legend EDT. The stronger concentrate shares the same DNA as Legend EDT and therefore shares that it is a versatile compliment-getter fragrance. It is a clean woody ozonic scent with a nice citrus undertone. It lasts long and women love it.

What Does the Perfume Smell Like?

Legend EDP stands as a testament to classic elegance, blending traditional masculine scents with a modern twist that appeals to the contemporary gentleman. In it’s DNA it has a lot of similarities to Percival by Parfums De Marly and is a great alternative. This woody scent has some touches of leather with minimal amounts of sweetness from the violet leaves. The violet adds that subtle flavor like the cucumber that adds the perfect touch to your G&T. This is that scent that reminds me of that guy you wish you were, nicely dressed, clean, and surprisingly nice to everyone.

When to Use the Perfume?

I wish I could tell you what this fragrance should be used for. It’s too versatile to give it just one use. This is a true signature scent that is versatile enough to be used for any occasion.

Who Is the Perfume For?

This fragrance is designed for the modern man who appreciates a blend of fresh, floral, and woody notes. This clean versatile fragrance is truly for anyone.

Performance of the Perfume

This perfume has a solid performance. It lasts roughly 8-10 hours making it a solid choice for all-day wear. It also has at least 3 hours of good projection and a strong sillage to make your presence known.

What Are Other People Saying?

Others often praise Montblanc Legend EDP for its well-balanced and sophisticated scent profile. They love how good of a compliment this is to any collection and appreciate the compliments. Pretty much everyone agrees this is a clean masculine scent that lasts all day long. People searching for unique fragrances felt that this did not do it for them, but still appreciated its sophisticated scent nonetheless.

Is It Worth It for the Money?

Of the fragrances on this list, this one comes in at the most expensive nearing $40, and deservingly so. Of this list, it is the most well-rounded, modern, and complimented fragrance you can find. I would say anyone and everyone should add this one to their list.

Summary:

1. Montblanc Explorer – the go-to for Montblanc, Aventus look alike scent that is a great signature scent.
2. Montblanc Individuel – a truly unique scent that is warm and comforting for the winter months.
3. Montblanc Presence – an truly enjoyable cinnamon and apple scent that blends perfectly for the fall months.  
4. Montblanc Legend EDT – an incredibly addictive sweet scent that is almost exactly like Fierce by A&F  
5. Montblanc Legend EDP – a strong signature scent that is woody and sure to get you complements.