Cologne Grand Luxe

About 15 years ago, I purchased a small bottle simply labeled "Cologne" at the Fragonard store in Grasse. I thought it was funny that the scent with the simplest and most humble name was such a lovely glowing scent. Just last week, I found the bottle, and tried it on. I was shocked that the topnotes still sparkle, and have a juicy succulence of high quality natural oils. The herbs smell fresh. Lavender makes this just a touch masculine. Hell, it's still a great cologne. Based on the notes, specifically the lemon, mandarin and lavender, I suspect this is the very same scent in a much nicer bottle.

I am flabbergasted that people say this is a dupe for Colonia. It's not. Yes, it begins with a tart citrus-lavender combo, but it quickly transcends to a warm, resinous mélange or benzoin and sandalwood. It still stays suitable for hot weather, but it's much more sensual. The sandalwood in Cologne Grand Luxe is much warmer than the type used in Colonia. This far from a copy. It's merely a classic men's "cologne' scent with a twist, and one that is sold for an insane value at that.

I realise Fragonard perfumes are high-class dupes of popular fragrances. Vétiver is a dupe of Terre d’Hermès EDT, and Grand Cologne is a dupe of Acqua di Parma Colonia – all at a much lower price. I layer them with the originals and it works great. Vétiver + Terre d’Hermès for outdoor sports, Colonia + Grand Cologne for other daytime occasions. Been getting compliments.

Classic mens aromatic/citrus cologne style fragrance. The opening is a blast of neroli/ petitgrain and citruses dries down to a aromatic fresh cologne with warm ambery/resinous undertone. Really really classy cologne and a little different from the usual cologne styles with the added amber. Longevity is 3-4h unfortunately.

Looking for a scent for my husband i tried this: Great men's cologne for warm times of the year! The burst of neroli and citrus is so good and refreshing and then it grounds down to sandalwood. Great classical scent that make you think of a man wearing an Italian suite with a crisp white shirt.