Artisan by John Varvatos

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There are many scents out there that can be overbearing and heavy, however, us guys (and our girls) would prefer something a bit lighter and more inviting. Artisan by John Varvatos is just such a fragrance. It was introduced in 2009 and has a unique vibe to it, that I feel is almost perfect for the summer months.

On the other hand, I am not completely sold on this fragrance and its use within my rotation of scents because it does have some issues with its performance. Read on, as I break down what makes this scent one of interest.


What does Varvatos Artisan Smell Like?

artisan

Notes include: Tangelo, Marjoram, Thyme, Murraya, Lavandin, Kephalis, Ginger Absolute, Serenolide, Belambre, Orange Blossom, Clementine, Purple Ginger, Ginger root, Mandarin Orange, Georgywood

Click here to try: John Varvatos Artisan Eau De Toilette Gift Set, 4.2 Oz.


My Full Wear Review

The first thing that I note about this cologne is how light and airy of a fragrance it is. It is warm and inviting and definitely one that has a bit of sexiness to it. This is the type of fragrance that will have women wanting to draw closer to get a whiff.

It’s pleasant citrus notes highlight a layer of complexity to the scent and give it a very fresh opening.

The citrus notes here, are tangelo and mandarin orange, much like in Artisan Acqua. However, this one is much more of a citrus fragrance than a citrus aquatic. These top notes are joined by herbal ingredients and floral notes.

I get orange blossom, neroli, and ginger, mostly. The initial citrus blast is gradually taken down a notch by the underlying floral notes, and the light spiciness.

I want to write more about the dry down and the other notes that came out of the fragrance as it wore on but I honestly didn’t get the chance. After an hour or two, it’s pretty much an orange and neroli blend, which I have to press my nose against the skin to really pick up on.

While this scent smells great, it has two distinct problems. First, while it is light and airy, it’s also pretty weak and people have to be pretty close to you in order to detect it (or you have to spray a ton of it).

Secondly, it loses whatever strength it may have had really quickly. This cologne doesn’t last long at all…which is insanely disappointing because I like it.


Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

The sillage at the start, is light to moderate, but at least you know it’s there. A short time later and the ability to project is non-existent. Then, it’s essentially gone from the skin. What a bummer, because I like the aroma.

Maybe 2 hours of wear on my skin. Terrible

Why is this such a common theme with Varvatos fragrances, that I’ve tried? My skin is pretty good at keeping fragrances on it, for a max time, but this brand’s colognes just evaporate it seems.

This scent has so much potential, if it only lasted longer and could project better, I would probably wear it quite often. Much like, The One by Dolce & Gabbana, it’s beauty is tarnished by performance issues.


Overall Impressions of Artisan

I want to be able to wear and recommend it, but I just simply can’t. Maybe if you can find a really cheap bottle, you might have better luck with the performance, but paying full price here? Nah.

The aroma itself is really great. I love the citrus notes and summertime vibe. Super fresh with a great ginger touch. It just falls apart completely.

Apparently, other people have had a bit more success with how long it lasts for them. For me, this one has just always completely disappeared in short order. Artisan is a cologne that smells really good, that just doesn’t save it in the end, though.

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Artisan by John Varvatos
  • 8/10
    Aroma - 8/10
  • 3.5/10
    Sillage - 3.5/10
  • 2/10
    Longevity - 2/10
  • 8.1/10
    Versatility - 8.1/10
  • 7.1/10
    Uniqueness - 7.1/10
5.7/10
User Review
0/10 (0 votes)

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