Don announces itself with a sharp, metallic blast of gunpowder—literally the note, not a metaphor—paired with molasses sweetness and a whisky warmth that arrives immediately. It's simultaneously rough...
**Polarizing opening, rewarding drydown**: The gunpowder-molasses contrast strikes hard at first, which some find off-putting while others view it as creative and intentional; patience reveals a sweeter, more balanced dry stage that most appreciate.
**Genuinely unique spicy-smoky profile**: Don doesn't follow typical tobacco or leather fragrance formulas; the literal gunpowder accord paired with spun sugar makes it stand out in conversations about bold, unconventional scents.
**Strong cold-weather performer**: Consistently recommended for fall and winter wear; its warm whisky-tobacco base and solid longevity make it ideal for evening and night-out occasions rather than summer daily wear.
**Join the Club collection skepticism**: Some fragrance enthusiasts view the line as lower quality relative to other Xerjoff offerings, which tempers enthusiasm for Don despite its distinctive character—worth sampling before committing.
**Not a blind buy**: The combination of intensity, unusual gunpowder note, and aggressive opening makes this one to test before purchasing; it rewards those seeking something unconventional but will disappoint anyone expecting conventional comfort.
