What changed
Basenotes threads report batch variance from ~2018 onward (some weaker batches, an alcohol-content tweak). The debate is genuinely contested — many owners insist recent batches smell and perform identically and attribute complaints to musk anosmia.
Reported change minorLast reviewed Jun 2026Sources: Basenotes
These reports are community-aggregated and not confirmed by the brand. Batch variance can mean different bottles smell noticeably different; buyers should check batch codes when possible.
Listed notes
Want consistent quality?
Dupes target a fixed profile and don't ride a brand's reformulation cycle — if batch variance on the original is making you nervous, these are stable alternatives the community has scored:
- View all dupes →Alexandria FragrancesRoyal EquestrianSpot-on · 8/10 longevity · $44.99–$109.99
- View all dupes →ALT FragrancesStallionSpot-on · 7/10 longevity · $39–$49
- View all dupes →Al HaramainDétour NoirClose, with tells · 7/10 longevity · $15–$28
Or try something similar with no reformulation concerns
Pegasus EDP
From $18$290· Save 94%
Community-reported
Accuracy
Spot-on
9/10
Longevity
8/10
The Scent File MethodVerified Jan 2026
Top of 5 scored dupes
Other reformulations to watch