XS (2018) vs Encre Noire

The r/fragrance community views XS (2018) as a successful reformulation that captures much of the appeal of the original 90s classic without requiring a hunt for increasingly expensive or potentially degraded vintage bottles. While acknowledged as slightly inferior to the original, it's praised for its fresh, citrus-forward character and considered worth purchasing as a reliable daily wear option.

The r/fragrance community views Encre Noire as an excellent value niche fragrance with distinctive character, praised for its woody, cypress-driven composition and quality at its price point. However, it's highly polarizing due to its dark, dry, and uncompromising nature that appeals primarily to fragrance enthusiasts rather than mass audiences. The flankers (Sport and A L'Extreme) offer more wearable alternatives while the original remains the most character-driven option.