Here we are, waiting for 2011 to end and anticipating all that 2012 will bring. As I reflect on what has occurred, I’m reminded of how blessed I am. Another year of good health and family is enough but 2011 also gave me a chance to spread my fragrant wings and for that, I’m grateful. Thank you Complex, Men’s Health and Antenna magazines for allowing me to share my views with your readers. (The Winter issue of Antenna recently came out and will be posted in the coming days.)

Before I totally let go of 2011, I wanted to share the five fragrances that left a lasting impression on me.

Liz Zorn’s Rivertown Road continues to amaze me. It’s complex and unlike anything I experienced. At a recent holiday gathering at my home, I let a fellow fragrance lover experience it and he could only sum it up as incredible. He also asked where he could buy it.

I discovered Carner Barcelona’s Cuirs at the Elements Showcase and have been singing its praise ever since. It shouts leather and commands a presence. It deserves its own theme song a la Shaft.

Team Odin continued its fragrant expansion in 2011. Its fifth scent, 06 Amanu was one of my go to scents this summer. It’s crisp opening is so fresh but it stays with you and gets better as it wears and that’s what sold me on this one.

Jardin du Poete was added to Eau d’Italie’s collection in 2011 and I wouldn’t be surprised if it becomes one of its best sellers. With top notes of bitter orange and grapefruit, it’s bright and earthy and holds its freshness all day.

Last and certainly not least, Penhaligon’s Juniper Sling is the quiet sleeper of 2011. Inspired by London Dry Gin, it equal parts warm and sweet while possessing the right amount of booze to keep it playful. It’s a great example of brand staying true to its heritage while being modern. It’s the scent of a well-groomed man.

Happy New Year.

For a few more lists of best of 2011, check out Persolaise, Olfactoria’s Travels and  Eyeliner On a Cat.