Orange Bitters Cologne (2023)

I used to dislike citrus fragrances, finding them too sharp and cleaner-like, but Orange Bitters completely changed my mind. The citrus here is deep, rich, and beautifully warmed up by sandalwood and amber—no harshness at all. I don't detect the plum note, but I don’t miss it either. I actually bought this after reading a review recommending layering it with Scarlet Poppy, and they were absolutely right—the two together are gorgeous, and SP really helps extend the wear time. On its own, Orange Bitters lasts about 3-4 hours in cooler weather, but struggles in the heat with minimal projection. Still, it's a stunning, cozy citrus scent that's anything but ordinary. Smells like Angostura Orange Bitters, in a good way.

My boyfriend calls this one “the gin fragrance”, probably because it reminds him of a cocktail adornished with orange bitters. It’s a very realistic orange peel scent and completely transports me to the Holidays. I got this one in a Jo Malone store when looking for something to pair with Scarlet Poppy. A wild pick that I would’ve never considered, but the creaminess of SP’s tonka really rounds this up. It’s stunning. My second favourite pairing is Wood Sage & Sea Salt because it really amplifies the woody, citrusy profile of Orange Bitters.

This is one of the best sandalwood fragrances I have. Yes, it is true to its name and smells like orange bitter and spices, but that is the first half of the wearing. The dry down is this warm, creamy sandalwood that I’m really enjoying. I’ve been wearing this layered with Ginger Biscuit when I’m craving for something sweet and spicy, and it’s a delicious combination, but orange bitters is so much better by itself. Completely unisex

This is absolutely delicious. It opens up very crisp and bitter, like orange bitters used in drinks. Then it smoothes beautifully into an amber scent, embraced by the plums. The patchouli is there to warm up, but it's not a patchouly scent in my opinion. I also layered it with a sample of the "Pomegranade noir" lotion, and i swear i can smell cocoa. Turned into a woody-spicy-cocoa-citrusy scent.

I'm on the fence. It smells a little too masculine in the dry down on me, but I love the opening freshness. I do like the minimalist bottle this year. What I love best about Jo Malone is that none of their products smell of limoneone at all....they all smell clean and natural and don't bother my allergies.