Giorgio Armani Code Elixir was introduced in 2025 - a more leathery edition of the much-loved original. Notes of green mandarin, leather, liquor, tonka bean. From the brand - "Giorgio Armani reveals Armani Code Elixir, a powerful new fragrance and the most concentrated within the Armani Code range. Powerfully concentrated, Armani Code Elixir is a fusion of ambery, leathery, and spicy notes that intertwines magnetic masculinity with captivating warmth."
Fragrantica - "The leather is the protagonist here for sure, the green mandarin gives it a sparkling vibe in the opening that might give the impression of booziness but it's not. The grilled tonka bean offers a sweet and smoky tone that soften the edges of the leather a bit and also add to its overall character. The dry down is what I like the most here, it's so well balanced. For those who care, this is more of an evening out or night dressy dinner date kind of fragrance."
Fragrantica - "The signature tonka bean here is captivating, offering a complex blend of smoky sweetness, a boozy warmth, and hints of almond and tobacco. It's a truly addictive quality that defines the scent. What stands out most is the dominant suede leather accord, which is bold and unapologetic – definitely not for the faint of heart. There's also a distinct smoky note that some might find challenging or "medicinal." However, for those who appreciate the deep, peaty nuances of a fine Scotch, this smokiness is a stroke of genius, adding a layer of sophisticated intrigue."
Fragrantica - "This has a challenging start that leads to a better finish. The opening here is a bit jarring on my skin—there’s a sharp, almost antiseptic quality that leans synthetic and medicinal. For a moment, it even brought to mind the scent of plastic bandaids, which was unexpected and a little off-putting. My daughter's friend said it smelled like insulin. Fortunately, that phase is short-lived. After about 15 minutes, the harsher edges begin to fade, and the fragrance softens into a much more wearable blend. The leather becomes smooth and slightly creamy, while the grilled tonka adds a warm, gently sweet undertone that’s both cozy and polished. The liquor here is subtle but effective—it doesn’t dominate, but it adds a low, amber-like warmth that enhances the base without becoming overly boozy. Combined with the tonka and leather, it creates a comforting dry down that feels deeper and more coordinated than the opening suggests."
Fragrantica - "A strong, masculine leather, and subtle smoky and boozy accords are there, but none of this is too strong or off putting. The leather is definitely more prominent than the more subtle smoke and boozy accords. Everything blends in well. Armani Code Elixir smells like a group of guys in their 30's playing poker, relaxing in plush chocolate brown or cherry red leather club chairs, sipping single malt scotch and smoking Belvederes. And I am not saying there is a significant tobacco accord ... I wish there was. I just get a subtle, hazy, and slightly sour smoky accord in the distant background."
