Knize Forest

Knize Forest, an Aromatic Fougere, was an olfactory journey that encapsulated the essence of a timeless forest. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this fragrance wove a tapestry of natural and aromatic notes, creating a captivating symphony that unfolded on the masculine skin. As the initial notes danced into the air, a burst of freshness emanated – a harmonious blend of Orange, Bergamot, Lavender, Petitgrain, and Amalfi Lemon. It was like stepping into a sunlit clearing, where the zesty citrus and herbal nuances instantly invigorated the senses. The opening was a breath of crisp, clean air, setting the stage for the journey through Knize Forest. Venturing further, the heart notes revealed a rich interplay of Basil, Sage, Oregano, Palisander Rosewood, Carnation, Geranium, and Rosemary. Here, the fragrance deepened into the heart of the forest, where the aromatic herbs mingled with the warmth of wood and the subtle sweetness of florals. It was an exploration of nature's bounty, where each note contributed to the complexity of the fragrance, evoking a sense of grounded masculinity. As the fragrance settled into its foundation, the base notes emerged, grounding Knize Forest in the earthy embrace of oak moss, Vetiver, Sandalwood, Musk, Amber, French labdanum, and Patchouli. This phase was akin to the sturdy roots of ancient trees, creating a solid and enduring foundation. The earthy, woody, and musky tones intertwined, leaving a lingering trail that was both sophisticated and comforting. Knize Forest was more than a fragrance; it was an ode to the untamed spirit of the forest, encapsulated in a bottle. It spoke to the man who appreciated the rugged beauty of nature, finding strength and inspiration in the authenticity of the outdoors. The composition was a harmonious balance of citrusy brightness, herbal complexity, and earthy depth, making it a timeless choice for the discerning gentleman who sought a connection to the essence of the wild. In the symphony of Knize Forest, the woods came alive, and the wearer became part of the enduring legacy of the masculine spirit intertwined with nature's grandeur.

According to the Knize website, the notes are: Top note: orange, lemon, petitgrain, bergamot, lavender Heart note: rosemary, sage, oregano, geranium, rosewood, clove Base note: vetiver, patchouli, sandalwood, ambergris, labdanum, oak moss, musk Great fougere fragrance, in the same vein as Green Irish Tweed. Smooth and quite natural smelling. The sandalwood-ambergris base is very Creed-like. Thumbs up.

This, together with Knize Ten, is the most interesting composition in the Knize's range. A green fougère that in many apsects recalls of the more popular Green Irish Tweed (expecially during the inital phase). A pine and herbal opening (mainly rosemary and sage) with hints of mint that evolves into an oakmoss and sandalwood lead drydown. Overall Knize Forest is airy and salubrious and will make the happyness of many coneheads out there. Long lasting, refined, distinctive and a lot cheaper than GIT. Rating: 7.5-8/10

This does smell very much like a forest, even without any coniferous notes (this is actually mostly composed of aromatic greens, fruits, and woody notes). But although it's pleasant and well-blended, it comes across as just another ordinary fougère rather than as anything to make anyone sit up and take notice.

Knize Ten is a favourite, but Forest is a big disappointment for me. A very basic Irish Spring soapy scent, a typical early-90s sudsy fougère, with a touch of creamy musk in the dry down. I’ve had a small sample for years that I’ve never felt much urge to finish.