Lubin Upper Ten Review: Historical Elegance or Modern Mediocrity

The world of fragrances is constantly evolving, introducing new scents that aim to capture specific moods, moments, or narratives. Among these recent introductions is Lubin's "Upper Ten," a fragrance that not only evokes a sense of nostalgia but also draws inspiration from a historical tapestry of American migration during the 1800s. This scent is said to represent the influential figures who contributed to the United States' industrial prowess. However, while the backstory may be intriguing, how does the fragrance itself fare? In this article, we'll explore the various layers of Upper Ten, from its olfactory profile to its overall character, diving into whether it lives up to its historical branding or falls flat in execution.

An Inspiration Rooted in History

The Narrative Behind Upper Ten

Lubin's Upper Ten emerges from a fascinating historical context, referring to the "ten thousand who mattered." This phrase, attributed to American poet Nathaniel Willis, highlights the individuals who played pivotal roles in establishing the country's industrial foundation. The fragrance invites wearers to imagine the allure and sophistication of an 1880s gentlemen’s club in cities like New York and Chicago. However, while this narrative serves as a rich backdrop, it raises the question: does the fragrance encapsulate the gravitas of its inspiration, or does it merely skate over the surface?

The Perfumer’s Vision

Crafted by Thomas Fontaine, Upper Ten aims to transport its wearer to a bygone era through its scent profile. The promise of elegance and power is woven into an aromatic tapestry that features wood, leather, spices, and florals. It seeks to honor the pioneers whose efforts forged a unique fabric of American identity. Yet as we explore its complexities, we must question if these historical ambitions translate into a wearable scent or if they dissolve into something more generic.

A Journey through the Fragrance Notes

The Opening: A Bright Beginning

Upper Ten starts its aromatic journey with a sequence of lively notes. The initial burst presents a fresh lemony essence, accompanied by the delicate warmth of saffron and the spiciness of green cardamom. A dash of pink peppercorn quickly brightens the mix, setting a somewhat energized tone. However, while the opening dazzles with promises of vibrancy, it simultaneously teeters on the edge of familiarity, reminiscent of many fragrances flooding the market.

The Transition: A Composite Cloud

As the fragrance evolves, a curious shift occurs. Within approximately five minutes, the initial brightness begins to fade, transitioning into a softening bouquet of spices and woods. The vivid citrus notes recede, allowing juniper berries and the addition of geranium to come forth. Here lies a challenge: while promising a blend of warmth and complexity, this stage exhibits a blurred composition that raises concerns of synthetic undertones dominating the experience. Genuine depth seems elusive as layers dissipate into a vague aroma without clear definitions.

The Heart: An Ambiguous Experience

A Distinct Mid-Stage

Moving into the center of Upper Ten's development, we find a heart dominated by ambery warmth and subdued wood. The amber is described as more a broad concept than a specific note, often overshadowing the more delicate elements emerging from the background. The initial woodiness transforms into a generalized scent, lacking the richness and texture one might expect from superior ingredients. Casual whiffs of fruitiness intermingle only sporadically, drawing attention to the overall simplification of this bouquet.

Subtle Complexities

During this mid-phase, smokiness begins its slow ascent, gradually wrapping around the already established woody notes. Here, we confront whether this progression enhances the scent or detracts from its character. Unfortunately, there seems to be little distinctiveness in the experience, leading to an underwhelming sensation as nuances float rather than stay grounded in their intended imagery.

The Drydown: A Whiff of Ambiguity

The Shift Towards Smoky Notes

As we transition towards the final stages of Upper Ten, a significant alteration occurs. The fragrance embraces a heavier smoky profile that lingers persistently. The sweetness once present evaporates, replaced by dark, woody elements. This trajectory marks a stark departure from where we began, leading into a territory that, while potentially appealing to some, echoes familiar themes embodied in various contemporary scents.

Final Impressions

In the closing hours of its wear, Upper Ten reveals an aromachemical signature dominated by hints of smoky cedar with only odd flashes of sweetness. The character becomes less literate in describing individual notes and instead yields a more ambiguous scent bubble. Yet, for longevity, Upper Ten does impressively hold onto its presence, giving it a sillage that, while not overwhelming, is discernible. This lasting appearance does provide a silver lining to an otherwise complex experience.

Final Thoughts on Upper Ten

When evaluating Upper Ten as a whole, it is crucial to consider both its historical resonance and its olfactory performance. The intention behind the fragrance may aim for the sophisticated allure of the American elite from the 1800s, but the execution appears to miss the mark. Within the realm of modern fragrances, Upper Ten finds itself occupying an average position with familiar notes that do not captivate nor evoke a profound emotional response. While it may appeal to those searching for an uncomplicated, versatile scent for daily wear, the lack of originality in character may hinder its ability to resonate with enthusiasts seeking evocative experiences. Given the requested price point of $200 for a 100 ml bottle, one might find better value—both in craftsmanship and thematic depth—elsewhere.

Retail Information

Those interested in experiencing Upper Ten can find it available for purchase at various retailers, including Luckyscent, First in Fragrance, and Premiere Avenue, with prices hovering around $200 or €149. Additional options for sampling, including 1 ml vials starting at $5.99, can also be found at select outlets like Surrender to Chance.