Tabu is a dense, unapologetic relic of 1930s perfumery that feels like stepping into a dimly lit room lined with heavy velvet curtains. It opens with an aggressive burst of bergamot and orange, immedi...
Enthusiasts frequently categorize Tabu as the bold ancestor to heavy-hitters like Youth Dew and Opium, noting that it shares a similarly spicy, resinous, and balsamic DNA.
The fragrance is renowned for its powerhouse performance; the community consensus is that it possesses extreme sillage and exceptional longevity, often outlasting modern Eau de Parfums despite its Cologne concentration.
While some modern reviewers find it polarizing or "dated," many celebrate it as a high-value vintage classic that offers a "poetic" and "intimidating" character for a very low price point.
It is overwhelmingly recommended for cold weather wear, specifically during winter and fall evenings, as its resinous warmth can become overbearing in high heat.
There is a notable distinction between versions, with long-time fans suggesting that while modern reformulations remain true to the original heritage, they may feel more "top-heavy" and less complex than antique bottles.
