Armani Code Special Blend

Got a bottle of this a couple years ago when I first turned up my cologne game. Someone already summed it up perfectly below. "The original with tonka turned up a notch, and no leather ." It takes the OG and puts a little twist on it. Makes it a little different so that if you love the DNA but want a change, this is an option. Super hard to find now, so don't go spending mega monies unless you are just a die-hard collector.

I was given this blind by my fiance at the time, after trying the original Code (and liking it). Yes, the smooooth bergamot and neroli are prominent on top, then a pit stop of some star anise. Smokey leather , bright vanilla, and some citrus still hanging around make their permanent stay enjoyable. Longevity was moderate when I first received the bottle. This frag taps people on the shoulder to let them know it's around.

The original with tonka turned up a notch, and no leather . I love this fragrance. Now it’s hard to get, but I will always cherish my bottle!

I'm disappointed that there are so many limited reviews on this fragrance. Then again, it might be that everyone is smart enough not to give Armani their time of day, since they haven't produced anything exciting in a while. Well, based on the aforementioned, I was forced to buy this fragrance blindly, since no stores in my area carried it, and I'm utterly disappointed. For those stating this is 80% Armani code original, you hit it on the head. I'd say it's more like 90%. Regardless, it's a complete flop, in my honest opinion. The name, the packaging, the marketing, and hype is so appealing. The "roasted" tonka bean was the note that got me. In all fairness to Special Blend, the opening and mid do indeed give off an incense/smoky/burnt complexity to the original formula, but once it settles (about 30 minutes in), it's the same Armani code we're all familiar with. Although it isn't a bad fragrance, it isn't worth it's outrageous price. If you're looking to replenish your Armani code, this is a decent choice, but if you already own the original, save your money. Longevity and projection is also just as terrible and the original, if not worse.

It starts with an orange citrusy smell but soon turns to warmer-spicy star anise and woody notes. Great for fall/winter days. Not too strong subtle fragrance. I believe it suits all ages. I give 7 out of 10.