Bacchus

This fragrance is a robust masculine, which was available in after-shave, cologne and a few other items. It is a peppery chypre, clearly in the tradition of Aramis and Braggi, although it is a lighter formulation that doesn't last nearly as long. Presented in a green flask modeled after a long-necked Roman urn, with a gold bas-relief of the face of Bacchus, Roman god of revelry, the top notes are bright citrus (lemon, bergamot, perhaps a touch of mandarin and grapefruit) with light floral and herbaceous overtones. Black pepper and spices (cumin, clove) appear, lasting into the woody midnotes, which fade rather abruptly into the base notes of patchouli, oakmoss and musk. Bacchus lacks the rich ambery-leathery smoothness that bridges the top and base notes of Aramis, still it is quite enjoyable for what it is. It is a mature man's fragrance --- not for frat boys having a toga party, but rather for a statesman relaxing in the Baths or discussing world affairs in the Forum, then abandoning himself to the pleasures of a Bacchanal. Caesar would have been proud!