Dior- Ambre Nuit (La Collection Privée)

Ambre Nuit from Dior's exclusive La Collection Privée is an easygoing, light and almost fruity amber fragrance that leans masculine. As a matter of fact, despite it's "Privée" label, I find Ambre Nuit to be too simplistic in that mainstream "men's cologne" way. It's the blast of sharp citrus and pink pepper that controls the opening of this fragrance and makes me think less Dior couture and more department store counter.

That said, Dior's Ambre Nuit holds a certain charm: it's the contrast between the cool "cologne" and inherent warmth of the amber base. And the amber itself is nice and light  with no hint of the oft expected oriental vanilla or smoke/incense. Instead, there's a juicy rose note that smells somewhat boozy yet feels fresh and light. Someone who feels unsure about amber perfumes and avoids them because they're too heavy and dark may find Dior's interpretation more appealing. Of course, one may argue (and I do) that Ambre Nuit dries down into more of a peppery wood than a true amber. My personal taste is far more baroque and ornate (see yesterday's list of favorite amber perfumes); however, if you're just dipping your toes into this rich pool, or if you're a man who likes amber in theory but feel uncomfortable wearing Ambre Sultan (why?), give Ambre Nuit a chance to lure you deeper.

Notes: amber, bergamot, grapefruit, rose, pink pepper.

Dior- Ambre Nuit from La Collection Privée ($155, 4.2oz) is available from select Dior boutiques around the world (South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa, CA. and Las Vegas in the US), Bergdorf Goodman, and dior.com.

Photo: Dior Homme, autumn/winter 2011, photographed by Kevin Foord for the Guardian, UK.