Written by Kristina Kybartaite-Damule

Fans of boozy fragrances are always eager to explore new releases from Kilian's The Liquors collection. One of the latest additions, Old Fashioned, was highly anticipated—and for good reason. Many hoped it would mark the return of the discontinued Single Malt.

For those who never had the chance to try Single Malt: it was a beloved fragrance released in 2014, created by the renowned perfumer Sidonie Lancesseur. Its composition—Plum, Colombian Tolu balm, Texas cedar, Bourbon vanilla absolute, and Wheat absolute—smelled like an exquisite liquor. Slightly dusty with a hint of medicinal amber. Despite its boozy character, it maintained an undeniable elegance, which is why, to this day, fragrance enthusiasts are still hunting for secondhand bottles of Single Malt. Unfortunately, it’s becoming increasingly rare to find; especially for a good price.

When Old Fashioned was announced, many hoped it would serve as a successor to Single Malt. This hope was fueled by the inclusion of notes like Wheat absolute, Cedarwood, and Tolu balm in the official description, as well as the fact that the same perfumer—Sidonie Lancesseur—was behind the creation.

Upon smelling Old Fashioned, it’s clear that Single Malt served as inspiration. However, the two fragrances are undeniably different. While Plum isn’t listed in Old Fashioned’s official notes, my nose detects a juicy, almost raisin-like quality reminiscent of it. The fragrance is boozy and evokes the image of a fine whiskey. I must admit, Old Fashioned is incredibly alluring.

That said, compared to Single Malt, Old Fashioned feels more modern. It’s less dusty, more airy, and has greater projection. While ambroxan isn’t mentioned in the notes, I sense its presence. Much like Baccarat Rouge 540, this fragrance has the effect of becoming less detectable to the wearer over time, but others around you will certainly notice it. In fact, I’ve personally received compliments on Old Fashioned even when I could no longer smell it myself.

(Yes, this is definitely a compliment-magnet fragrance, if that’s what you’re looking for—yet another reason to celebrate this release.)

For those still mourning the discontinuation of Single Malt, Old Fashioned may offer some peace, though it’s important to remember that they are not the same. That said, both fragrances share an intoxicating, addictive quality that makes them unforgettable.