THOMAS DE MONACO
RAW GOLD
2020
PERFUMER
Fredrik Dalman
Liquor
Coffee
Vetiver
Plum
Black Pepper
Lipstick
Leather
Suede
Saffron
Tonka Bean
Opoponax
Patchouli
Civet
A reformulated version was released after this limited release as Raw Gold (2023). It was reformulated again in Raw Gold (2024).
‘For over twenty years, Thomas De Monaco has been living and working as a creative director and photographer between Paris and Zurich, working for international clients in the premium and luxury industries – Hermès, Dior, YSL, Armani, Moët & Chandon, Hennessy, Rolex, Cartier and Piaget, to name but a few. In December 2020, after more than three years of development, he presented Raw Gold, his first own fragrance. As an initial limited edition with 1.400 flacons, the eau de parfum has been the subject of considerable discussion, and has found a place in the hearts of collectors and connoisseurs.’- Thomas de Monaco
This review is for the limited edition from 2020, you can also check out my review/comparison for Raw Gold (2023) (which was followed by Raw Gold (2024).
Raw Gold was the first offering from the house and it a statement-maker of a first entry. In short, Raw Gold is arguably my favorite honey scent on the market; beating out gems like Hiram Green Slowdive, Zoologist Bee and the closest comparison might be Lorga Nectar Cachete (which is heavier on the saffron/leather).
There’s a very dry and slightly medicinal character to Raw Gold (somewhat similar to the vibe I get from Unique’e Beverly Hills Exclusive or even Meo Fusciuni Little Song), but it’s very sweet. Yet again, not too sweet and it comes across as more mature and less linear than Hiram Green Slowdive or Zoologist Bee. I always love the scent of honey fragrances, but I end up finding the fragrances too cloying. Here, it’s kept in check.
The honey persists, but it does not completely overtake the dry, patchouli, woodiness, the leathery vibe and a slight fruitiness. Coffee is listed and while I don’t get coffee distinctly, I do get a roasted quality; almost smelling like a dry cookie at times. It’s almost gourmand, but the saffron pushes through as it dries. Overall, it’s not the easiest to pull off, as it’s a dry, strong, linear experience. The 2023 version is easier going, but lacks something special that this limited edition has, so I’m happy to own a bottle.
