Note di Colonia II

This is my preferred one of the 3 and I bought the 150 ml bottle while still testing samples of #3 and 1 at home in various conditions, I'll buy them probably, too. BTW I don't understand how it is possible to write a review on a niche frag without having a significant sample at home - not even enough for me to write a review - or the full bottle: then only I can write about it. But maybe I'm still having much to learn ... The opening is a magic combination between a set of citruses and an association between a soft cardamon and basil. Basil plays an original role as it adds a deeper and somewhat heavier effect to the citruses which are therefore difficult to individualize. The Guaiac wood is present from the very opening with a definitely nuancing effect, just like the soft muscs' effects and a never invading sandalwood & vetiver. The citrus notes disappear only after several hours as magically as they opened, but in this composition everything is smooth, soft, and progressive, leaving no surprises. Even after 8 or 10 hours, the delicious skin scent is very close to the opening and its soft and peaceful evolution. The longevity is impressive, and this is definitely not a Cologne in the common sense. The quality of ingredients and probably their concentration place this frag at least at the level of an EdP. I don't quite agree with the sequential 3-act analysis of these scents symbolized by Puccini's opera Turando as presented by AdP: I rather feel that this example of modern parfumery plays with variations around a very original theme, maybe reflected by the central theme of Puccini's composition at the time. Though I usually prefer floral scents, this is a true masterpiece as its softness and first class combination of non floral ingredients combines modernism with classicism in a very very original way. Great job for a first niche line, thanks AdP !

This is really very special, but the notes in the perfume pyramid are a little deceptive. You would assume (particularly given that this is an ADP release) that this is essentially a citrus-heavy fragrance that, once those citrus notes have gone, evolves to a woodsy dry-down, as is the tried and tested formula for hundreds (at least) of other fragrances. In fact, aside from an opening 60-second burst of bergamot, I get very little citrus from Note di Colonia II which instead arrives almost straight from the bottle with a full-on Guaiac experience pushing straight through that citric top-line. The Guaiac here is dense and dry but also super-smooth with none of the rubber/tarmac notes that can plague that note - it's a clever conjuring act, in fact, to present Guaiac as full-on and rich as this without it lurching into harshness. Nestling behind this is a clear herbal element coming from the interplay of basil and cardamon (I pick up hints of thyme, too?) which adds a depth and dimensionality that is perhaps serving to harness the Guaiac. Slowly a creamy, almost coconutty sandalwood joins the party to partner the Guaiac and the interplay between these two kinds of wood is just beautiful and, for me, the absolute highlight of Colonia II. The quality of ingredients and sophistication of the blend is clear throughout. Highly recommended for lovers of pure, natural (or at least natural, non-synthetic smelling) wood fragrances.

This (along with Note di Colonia I) was love at first sniff. In fact, the whole collection is superbly done. Shop around, the Note Collection be purchased at prices that mere mortals can afford. I hunted it down like a bloodhound, I was a little obsessed! I have been a fan of AdP Essenza, a classic eau de cologne that epitomizes tuxedoed elegance, but other AdPs, while nice, never really excited me. So I wasn't expecting the beauty of Note di Colonia II. Dry, sparkling, woody and slightly herbal aromatic that radiates class and sophistication without smelling nostalgic. Appropriate for all occasions, anytime, but I imagine it's cool dry citrus and woods would excel in heat. Not listed in the notes, but I think might be there, are pepper and something bitter, perhaps tomoato leaf, so so perfectly blended that no one note stands out. Nothing about this feels synthetic (although longevity suggests otherwise). I get decent longevity, not a beast mode scent. This is better for night out at a concert, or a lovely dinner alfresco, than for a night out clubbing.

Just stopping by to say that this scent is the best of the best for me. An absolutely masterful wearing experience. Mostly linear (no white musk in here), masculine, projects nicely, last long and it seemed like almost everyone likes it even though it is a niche scent that is somewhat unique. This is very very close to perfection. For such a natural citrus fragrance that has strength and prestige it is actually priced good compared to some of its peers due to the large bottle (price per ml). If this scent was an element, it would be smokeless fire. I tip my hat to you Aqua di Parma.

I swooned the first time I wore this. I also made my husband wear it and YES it works for both of us. My teenagers also love it. If only I could afford a full bottle I could perfume the whole family! I had to restrain myself from sprinkling some on the cats. It conjures an Italian barber shop/salon and the crisp, put together feeling of wearing linen and walking down old cobblestone streets. This fragrance is expertly blended and just beautiful.