Jean Paul Gaultier’s Ultra Male, launched in 2015, is an audacious and dynamic fragrance that has quickly become a staple for men who seek to make an impact. Building upon the legacy of the iconic Le Male, which has graced shelves since 1995, Ultra Male is a bolder, sweeter, and more intense interpretation. For many, this fragrance represents the epitome of modern masculinity, with its powerful projection and captivating scent profile. Let’s dive into the key aspects of Ultra Male—why it stands out, what makes it so desirable, and how it fits into a fragrance collection.
The Bottle: An Icon Reimagined
Jean Paul Gaultier fragrances are instantly recognizable by their bottle design—typically in the shape of a torso. Ultra Male’s bottle retains the classic torso shape but takes on a dark, nearly black color with striking blue stripes. This deep, moody aesthetic reflects the fragrance’s intense and seductive nature. Like Le Male, Ultra Male’s bottle is both a nod to Gaultier’s edgy fashion background and a statement of the fragrance’s daring, unapologetic identity.
Scent Profile: Bold, Sweet, and Addictive
The heart of Ultra Male lies in its oriental-fougere composition. It’s a bold, intoxicating fragrance with a sweet, fruity opening that blends seamlessly into deeper, spicy notes. Ultra Male is often described as a night-out fragrance, perfect for cooler weather due to its warmth and depth.
Top Notes: Sweet and Fruity First Impression
At first spritz, you’ll be greeted with a burst of pear—yes, pear! It’s a unique, juicy, and slightly sweet note that immediately sets Ultra Male apart from typical men’s fragrances. Alongside the pear, you’ll notice the citrusy bite of bergamot and the fresh, aromatic touch of lavender. These initial notes create a vibrant, playful introduction, leaving a sweet, fruity impression on the skin.
Heart Notes: A Spicy and Aromatic Core
As the fragrance settles, the heart notes take center stage. Here, Ultra Male introduces cinnamon and clary sage, which provide a warm, spicy complexity. The cinnamon adds a rich, almost gourmand quality to the scent, while the clary sage offers a green, herbal contrast that balances out the sweetness. The addition of cumin introduces a slight earthiness, contributing to the overall complexity of the fragrance. This blend of spice and sweetness is what makes Ultra Male so addictive—it’s as if the scent continuously evolves on your skin.
Base Notes: Warm, Dark, and Long-Lasting
Ultra Male’s dry-down is where the fragrance shows its true strength. The base is composed of black vanilla, amber, and patchouli, which give the fragrance a creamy, warm, and slightly smoky finish. The vanilla, in particular, provides a lasting sweetness that lingers on the skin for hours, making it perfect for those long nights out. The cedar adds a woody touch that rounds out the scent, giving it an overall masculine vibe despite its initial sweetness. The combination of vanilla and woods creates a warm, comforting trail that’s impossible to ignore.
Performance: A Beast in Longevity and Projection
One of Ultra Male’s most praised attributes is its longevity and projection. This fragrance is often described as a “beast” because it lasts for over 8-10 hours on the skin, sometimes even longer depending on the conditions. You can confidently apply it before heading out for the evening and still smell it on your clothes or skin the next day.
The projection is equally impressive. Ultra Male has an incredible sillage—meaning it leaves a strong scent trail behind you. This makes it a great choice for social events, parties, or dates when you want to leave a lasting impression. Be aware, however, that because of its potency, it’s easy to over-apply. Just a few sprays are enough to get noticed, so it’s best to start lightly.
When to Wear Ultra Male: The Perfect Night-Out Fragrance
Ultra Male excels in the colder months—fall and winter are its prime seasons. The warmth and sweetness of the fragrance work beautifully in chilly weather, creating a cozy, inviting scent. It’s best suited for evening wear or special occasions, like nights out, parties, or dates. It’s definitely not your everyday, casual scent; Ultra Male is meant to stand out, so save it for moments when you want to make a bold statement.
During the day, especially in warmer weather, the sweetness can be overpowering. However, in controlled environments like air-conditioned spaces, it still shines. The best part is how it shifts as the night progresses—starting off fruity and sweet, and deepening into something more sensual and smoky as time goes on.
Who Should Wear Ultra Male?
Ultra Male is ideal for men who are confident, daring, and unafraid of standing out. It’s a fragrance for the modern man who embraces both his masculine and playful sides. Despite its sweetness, it never feels overly youthful or immature. Instead, it strikes the perfect balance between bold and seductive, making it suitable for men of various ages, but especially those in their 20s and 30s who are looking to turn heads.
If you’re someone who loves attention or enjoys making an impression through your fragrance, Ultra Male is perfect for you. It’s bold without being brash, sweet without being cloying, and masculine without being too traditional. Ultra Male challenges the norms of typical men’s colognes, making it a must-have for fragrance collectors or anyone who loves a dynamic, evolving scent.
Final Thoughts: Why Ultra Male Deserves a Spot in Your Collection
Jean Paul Gaultier’s Ultra Male is a powerhouse fragrance that knows how to make a statement. Its blend of sweet fruits, spicy cinnamon, and warm vanilla creates an unforgettable olfactory experience. Whether you’re heading to a party or a romantic night out, this fragrance is your secret weapon for commanding attention and leaving a lasting impression.
The performance is nothing short of impressive, making it a great value for those who want a fragrance that lasts all day—or all night—without needing frequent reapplication. While it’s not for everyone, Ultra Male is perfect for anyone who loves bold, sweet, and long-lasting scents. It’s versatile enough for special occasions but powerful enough to be a signature scent for those who can pull it off.
If you’re new to Jean Paul Gaultier fragrances, Ultra Male is a great introduction to the house’s signature style of bold, creative scents. If you’re a fan of sweet and spicy fragrances, it’s hard to go wrong with this one. And with its eye-catching bottle design, it’ll look great on any fragrance shelf!