Ok, I’d be lying if I said I selected this perfume for any reason other than the packaging. But can you blame me? Dripping in luxury, this 100 ML bottle of decadence looks as if pure gold was melted over the entire bottle in one seamless pour. Then as if by magic, the symmetrical Creed logo rises from the liquid gold just a fraction to deepen the metallic shine. It’s flawless by design, with the cut cap standing proudly like a gold brick chiseled to perfection.

The box is as beautiful. A hardy white craft board is embossed in gold and silver, with Creed’s 3-feathered crown gracing the box top and center. Millesime Imperial is place on the box as a plaque, giving it an even more regal look and feel. And the scent?

When I was gifted a Creed cologne bottle of choice to feature on an Instagram promotion, I wasn’t able to get the full experience of scent testing before making the selection. I picked Millesime Imperial based on the packaging, as well as the description of it’s aura.

“The gold standard in fragrance, this refreshing and invigorating scent evokes citrus groves and lush seaside palaces. As versatile as it is opulent, Millesime Imperial is worn by both men and women who appreciate its salty-sweet mix of sun-kissed citrus and rich musk. Fit for royalty, this sophisticated scent is famed for its signature golden look and befits any occasion, from the corner office to the corner suite.” – Creed

The scent is classified in Creed’s marine fresh citrus category, with top notes of bergamot, green mandarin and lemon. The iris middle note is only surpassed by the base note of sandalwood, amber and musk. If you’ve tried any of Creed’s fragrances before, you could compare the scent to Himalaya, Neroli Sauvage or Pure White Cologne.

Having only experienced (and loved) Creed Aventus prior, I could only have hoped to love the scent as much as I did the bottle. The verdict? I wouldn’t be writing this post if had been anything other than brilliant. Upon first spray, Millesime has a deep, musky scent that’s heavy and sensual. It was easy to imagine it as a unisex choice for evening wear.

Then a strange sensation, on second breath, the distinct musky scent gave way to a succulent sandalwood aroma with a subtle floral finish. Sounding like a scent connoisseur yet? It can be a strange thing to define something as intangible as a scent. This fragrance definitely isn’t for the lighthearted. After a single full spray touching the top to the base of the spritzer, the smell was full and robust.

When selecting perfumes, the choice is best made per event. Wearing one smell everyday is dated, and over-rated. Just like changing your clothes, a scent is a part of who you are in a day or moment. Wear what defines you in that moment.

Because of the luxurious, sultry notes of Creed’s Millesime Imperial, I would categorize this bottle as an ideal choice for evening wear. Imagine a chandelier-lit dinner in a long, sparkling gown. A night walk on a cold beach, barelegged in an oversize sweater, an evening at the theater for a ballet performance, and a casual night in by the fire wrapped in nothing but a blanket are all moments perfect for fully embodying the essence of Millesime.

Sound like the mood fits? You can shop Millesime Imperial here, along with Creed’s other signature luxury fragrances and create a moment of your own.