Green Amazonia for Him

Benetton regularly puts out many OK, inexpensive fragrances more akin to deodorant-y smells than anything else. Some are good everyday smells. But sometimes the house hits a ball out of the park with some of its creations (e.g., Cold, Hot, Benetton Colors Man Black). This is the same. Green Amazonia is a beautiful green, leafy, natural-smelling composition. To my nose, it smells very close to one of the best modern releases from the great houses: Hermès H24 Herbes Vives (Forever Green Him -which is good- takes a cue from the original H24 but IMHO this is better rounded, less generic and more refined). It is like a cologne version of H24HV but less complex, fresher, and more fleeting, with an adequate lasting power and projection. In itself, it is great, but considering the price, an absolute steal. Get it.

I picked this up on a trip in Latin America, and it served me well. The opening is very nice, green and peppery. It's simple and clean, and works very well for hot climates. I am not a fan of the dry down. There is something about the composition of this fragrance that makes it smell like a salad and sweet bell pepper. It must be the mix of the sage and vetiver. As the citrus fades, all you're left with is those two notes. The performance on this is very poor, 1-2 hours of longevity on clothing and skin. There is no real projection, and sillage doesn't exist. Though cheap, this isn't for sale in the U.S, getting a new bottle will be difficult. Therefore I can't recommend over spraying or regular use if you are nostalgic for the scent, or really like it. I am fond of this, simply because it reminds me of my trip, but I will not be wearing this. This will sit on my shelf, only as a reminder. Ok scent, poor longevity, great opening, kinda gross on the dry down. 5/10 - Average, fine.