The 12 days of Christmas, day ten

“On the tenth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me…10 lords a leaping.”

Lords a leaping? Our heads went right to sports—specifically to gorgeous, great-smelling athletic men with regal lineage. And so, Polo!

This isn’t a new scent but boy, it’s a good one. Consider it a men’s fragrance classic that would make for a great gift in our 12 Days of Christmas gift guide. Pair it with a gorgeous sweater and cashmere scarf, and it’s even more chic.

The brand’s new incarnations—Polo Red, Polo Black, Polo Blue—are all worthy, but there’s nothing quite like the original of 1978.

Vetiver, thyme, patchouli, oakmoss, cumin, coriander, cloves, basil, Artemisia: Talk about a spicy mix. This is a bold spritz that reminds of young men passionate about their polo, their soccer, football or their rugby. Young, vibrant, sexy and anything but understated. But then, sometimes you don’t want subtle. That goes for the wearer of said fragrance as well as the appreciator.

Ralph Lauren Polo, $76 (50 ml), www.thebay.com

ILLUSTRATION: LAURA GULSHANI