XS vs Encre Noire

The r/fragrance community views XS (2018) very positively as a solid designer fragrance offering excellent value. While it doesn't quite match the original 1990s vintage, the reformulation is close enough that most community members don't feel compelled to hunt down older bottles, praising its fresh, green citric opening and woody dry down with good performance for the price point.

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.