Gucci Pour Homme II Gucci 2007 male 751

The Verdict

Gucci Pour Homme II is one of those fragrances that has achieved legendary status precisely because it is no longer available. Created by Karine Dubreuil and launched in 2007 as the sequel to the original Gucci Pour Homme, this tea-forward composition captured something rare in men's fragrance: quiet sophistication without sacrificing distinctiveness.

The fragrance takes the calming, meditative quality of black tea and weaves it into a composition with violet leaf, bergamot, cinnamon, and tobacco. The result is something that many compare to a perfectly brewed cup of Earl Grey, elevated with spice and warmth. Since its discontinuation, bottles that once retailed for around seventy dollars now command four hundred dollars or more on the secondary market.

While not every reviewer is smitten with it, the consensus leans decidedly positive, with many considering it one of the finest tea fragrances ever produced for men and a tragic loss from Gucci's lineup.

What It Smells Like

The opening delivers a refreshing burst of violet leaf and bergamot that creates something approaching a cool, green, almost cucumber-like impression. This initial freshness is bright and inviting, though some have noted it fades rather quickly.

As the fragrance develops, the star of the show arrives: a beautiful black tea accord that intertwines with cinnamon and pimento. The tea note reads as more green than black at times, sometimes approaching jasmine tea territory. The spices add warmth and a gentle bite without overwhelming the composition's refined character. Opinions on the cinnamon-pimento combination vary, with some finding it the perfect complement and others wishing it were dialed back.

The base settles into a subtle foundation of tobacco leaf, myrrh, musk, and olive wood. These notes are present but understated, requiring close proximity to fully appreciate. The overall arc is one of declining intensity, from a bright opening to a barely-there, skin-scent finish that rewards intimacy.

When to Wear It

Gucci Pour Homme II is ideally suited for warmer weather and daytime wear. Its lightweight, refreshing character makes it perfect for spring and summer, while its refined quality makes it appropriate for the office. This is the kind of fragrance that earns compliments from those who come close enough to notice it, rather than projecting across a room.

Business meetings, casual brunches, and afternoon social gatherings are all ideal settings. The tea accord gives it an air of cultured sophistication that feels right in environments where understated elegance is valued.

Longevity & Projection

This is where Gucci Pour Homme II receives its most consistent criticism. Longevity is generally reported as moderate, ranging from five to eight hours depending on skin chemistry, with some unlucky wearers reporting only two to three hours. Projection fades noticeably after about two hours, making it a close-to-skin experience for most of its lifespan.

Sillage is described as soft to moderate at best. Some reviewers suggest Gucci made the right choice by leaning toward subtlety, as the fragrance envelops rather than projects outwardly. Those who prioritize sillage may want to apply generously or look elsewhere.

The Community Says

The fragrance community is largely positive about Gucci Pour Homme II, though a vocal minority finds it overrated. Fans praise its unique tea accord and consider it irreplaceable, lamenting its discontinuation. Critics describe it as nice enough but no more than average among tea-based fragrances, suggesting it benefited from scarcity more than quality.

A common thread in discussions is the difficulty of finding a suitable replacement. While alternatives exist, many collectors insist that nothing quite captures the same balance of tea, violet, and tobacco that made Gucci Pour Homme II special.

Who Should Buy This

If you are a fragrance collector who appreciates tea-based compositions and does not mind paying a premium for a discontinued gem, Gucci Pour Homme II is worth seeking out. It is also an excellent choice for men who prefer subtle, sophisticated scents over loud crowd-pleasers.

However, those who demand strong longevity and projection may find it disappointing relative to its current asking price. Consider sampling before committing to the significant investment a full bottle now represents.

The Bottom Line

Gucci Pour Homme II is a beautifully crafted tea fragrance that earned its cult following through genuine quality rather than hype. Its understated elegance and distinctive character make it memorable, even if its performance does not always match its reputation. For those who value refinement over raw power, it remains one of the most elegant masculine fragrances of the 2000s.