If we already develop a rapport and not strangers anymore, I would be different. But a complete stranger? I'd rather receive a nice polite introduction e-mail.
My intuition is usually correct. Guys who write like this most of the time end up sending endless e-mail back and forth wasting my time without firming up a plan to meet. I have no choice than being my usual blunt self in a professional manner. It may sound cold and ruin his fantasy but he has ruined my desire to meet him. I'm trying to be as efficient with my life and business, ya know? I have no time for endless e-mail that is going nowhere.
