Fragrances

Adidas Deep Energy Cologne Review

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Most of the colognes which I have reviewed thus far on this site have been of the more expensive variety. Designer fragrances do come at a premium price and while you do sometimes get what you pay for, there are still great colognes at inexpensive prices. One cologne that I want to highlight today is Adidas’ Deep Energy.

This eau de toilette, sells for right around $10 and can provide a great value for guys looking to smell good. While it isn’t the best cologne on the market, Deep Energy is surprisingly pleasant for something so inexpensive. Update: It’s discontinued.

What does Adidas Deep Energy Smell Like?

adidas_deep_energy

Deep Energy Notes: mandarin, bergamot, green apple, cardamon, lavender, musk and woods

My Full Review

I first got my bottle of Deep Energy in a gift set of 3 Adidas fragrances. I didn’t particularly care for the other two scents, but I did find Deep Energy to be a relative steal at the price.

This cologne is a sporty one, and not one that will necessarily, be the best choice for going out on a date or something like that. Although, I suppose you could if you had no other options.

It opens up with a citrus blast of mandarin orange and bergamot, with a crisp green apple, putting itself within the mix. From the start, there is a musky undertone that is present, but it never struck me as being too heavy.

As it dries down further, it can become more difficult to distinguish between the individual fruit smells, because they do sort of blend into one.

After a quick opening act, the lavender note really starts to kick in, and is joined by a cedar wood base. It’s soothing and fresh, while still retaining that sporty edge, which Adidas is known for.  I really like how it smells at this stage, as the blend isn’t overly fruity, but does have a nice crisp and pleasant aroma.

Energy is in the product title and it definitely lives up to the moniker. The mandarin and green apple notes within this fragrance, help to make it an invigorating choice.

While many other cheaper colognes, can tend to overpower, Deep Energy is one that is subtle yet stands out as a unique and pleasant experience.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

Projection wise, it is pretty moderate for the opening hour, and then the sillage is closer to the skin. It isn’t completely weak, but a cologne that is more light and refreshing, than constantly demanding attention.

The longevity has always been good for me. Well, I mean, good for something at this price point. It’ll go for up to 6 hours or so, before fading. That’s not bad at all, when you consider that re-application won’t cost a bunch of money.

I’ve mostly worn this fragrance at work or out around town while running errands. Due to its price, Deep Energy is a good choice as an everyday cologne, that can be worn on days where you don’t want to use up the more expensive designer fragrances you might own.

It’s sporty and light enough for gym wear. Most of all, it’s a nice choice for younger guys who are still in school, and need something simple and fresh.

Deep Energy has a bit of spice to it which helps to give it a comforting warmth, from a very light cardamom note, which is persistent throughout.

Unlike something such as Opium Pour Homme, this Adidas cologne has its subtle spice paired with woodsy notes and fruity notes like green apple.

Overall Impressions of Deep Energy

I rather like Deep Energy as sort of a starter cologne or one that can be worn in casual situations because it is a overall nice smell. I have gotten plenty of complements while wearing it, and it is also fairly long-lasting, which is even a better value.

Is it amazing? No, but, it is a nice little fragrance that you don’t really need to think about before applying. It isn’t offensive, it is clean, and gets the job done.

If you’re in the market for an inexpensive cologne, definitely check out Deep Energy, again it’s only $10 or thereabouts, so it won’t break the bank.

Update: This has been discontinued for years now. The secondary market, seems to have sold off most of the excess bottles and the price has shot up. Don’t pay insane prices for this.

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.

Mont Blanc Legend Spirit vs. Legend Night

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For this edition in the head to head men’s fragrance match ups, I want to do another comparison between, two Mont Blanc fragrances: Legend Night vs. Legend Spirit. Which of these descendants from the original popular cologne, smells better? Which has a better performance? Which is overall the better buy?

I have worn, tested, and reviewed each of these scents. Now, I will break them down by category, before ultimately declaring a winner.

Tale of the Tape: Spirit vs Night

Legend Spirit

Notes include: grapefruit, pink pepper, bergamot, musk, aquatic accord, lavender, cardamom, oak moss, wood

Click here to try: MONTBLANC Legend Spirit Eau de Toilette, 3.3 Fl Oz

Read my review: Legend Spirit

Legend Night

Notes include: candied apple, cedar, vanilla, cardamom, vetiver, sage, mint, bergamot, fir, lavender, violet, patchouli, and musk

Click here to try: MONTBLANC Legend Night Eau De Parfum, 1 fl. oz.

Read my review: Legend Night

Opening

Legend Spirit opens up with a citrus and aquatic blend of notes. Beyond that, is a warm and slightly spicy blend of cardamom and pink pepper. It is a nice scent, clean, and that cardamom note really helps to prevent it from settling into a standard issue aquatic.

Legend Night starts off with bergamot and candied apple. The citrus is the same as Spirit, but Night goes in an entirely, different direction. The second layer is of vanilla, sage, cardamom, and cool mint.

You get plenty of creamy vanilla and apple mix, with the warm spicy undertones.

Which is better? To me, Legend Night, has the better start. The initial juiciness of the fruits, the cool and warm contrast in spice, and then the vanilla note. It’s great.

Edge: Night

Projection

So, Spirit is a moderate with its sillage, but on the lighter end of that spectrum. Legend Night is also moderate overall, but has a strong start, and can be quite noticeable for a while, at a distance.

It’s also just a heavier fragrance versus Spirit, which can be used into the spring and summertime, whereas Night isn’t a hot weather wear.

Edge: Night

Longevity

Legend Spirit gives me 5-6 hours of wear and that’s about it. Pretty consistent with that range. Legend Night will get me 7 hours, but when I double spray each side of my neck, it goes for 9 hours.

Spirit doesn’t get any more time, with double sprays. I don’t think either of these are amazing with their longevity. Pretty standard for most Montblanc colognes. Night, has just worked better for me, over many times testing them.

Edge: Night

Versatility

Legend Spirit gets the edge in versatility. It is a warm weather fragrance but can do well year-round. It can go casual to work to a date with ease. Legend Night, is great in cold weather, and fine in the moderate temperatures.

It is also more geared toward casual and nightlife, as the name suggests. So, probably not the best business fragrance, but neither really is.

Edge: Spirit

Overall Scent

There is a lot to like about Legend Spirit. It’s got a clean and aquatic citrus aroma, with nice touches of spice. It’s pretty average in its longevity and sillage, but I do really enjoy the cardamom note in this one. Nice overall cologne.

Legend Night is better and it’s one that I wear on a pretty regular basis. It too has the cardamom, but an overall, warm and enveloping scent. It’s sweet, fruity, spicy, and has sex appeal.

I’ve gotten complements with Legend Night from ride share drivers to women to random folks at the bar. I really dig this type of scent and when it’s in the right environment, it can be amazing.

To me, it’s a fairly easy win.

Winner: Legend Night 

Invictus Intense vs. Invictus Legend Comparison

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The Invictus line from Paco Rabanne just keeps churning out new editions. The latest, is Invictus Legend, which came out in 2019. It is most often compared to Intense, but which of these scents smells the best? Which lasts longer? Which is the better buy overall? Legend vs. Intense?

Tale of the Tape: Legend vs Intense

Invictus Intense

Notes include: orange blossom, black pepper, malt accord, wood, black amber, ambergris

Click here to try: Paco Rabanne Invictus Intense Eau De Toilette Spray 100ml/3.4oz

My Invictus Intense Review

Invictus Legend

Notes include: grapefruit, amber, geranium, metal, mead accord, guaiac wood, laurel, sea salt, bay leaf

Click here to try: Paco Rabanne Invictus Legend eau de parfum for men 3.4 Fl Oz

Read my Review: Invictus Legend

Opening

Invictus Legend starts things off with almost a tropical sort of feel. It is a blend of lemon and grapefruit, with heavy aquatic notes and amber. The bay leaf, that is found in the Invictus line, is pretty faint in Legend.

Meanwhile, Intense begins with amber and a salty marine note. It seems more like salty breeze than anything oceanic. Then, the orange blossom note comes in, along with the boozy malted accord.

Which is better? It’s a really close call, but I think I still prefer Intense, over the newest release. I really dig the boozy and amber mix, it feels distinct, and darker than the other Invictus scents.

Edge: Intense

Projection

With the name Intense, you’d expect this one to be pretty clear cut. However, while Invictus Intense is fairly strong, the sillage isn’t crazy. In fact, I would say that Legend actually projects better than Intense.

It isn’t by much, but Legend will radiate off of my skin, by a few extra feet at its peak strength. Neither of them, is weak, however.

Edge: Legend

Longevity

With Legend, I can get 7-8 hours of wear out of that fragrance. It’s really good and will handle most purposes. Again though, Legend beats it out. I get 8-10 hours of wear, on my skin. Legend gets the edge.

Edge: Legend

Versatility

In terms of when you can wear each of these fragrances, they are about the same, excluding climate. Legend will work better in the heat, while Intense, isn’t really built for the height of summer.

Other than that, they are both pretty youthful scents. Better for casual wear, school, or nightlife. Not really professional sorts of fragrances. Legend gets a slight edge.

Edge: Legend (slightly)

Overall Scent

After trying out Invictus Legend, I found it to have many positive qualities. I especially love the citrus, toned down bay leaf, and greater use of amber than the original Invictus.

To me, Legend acts sort of as a midway point, between the original and Intense. It’s got great performance, aquatic elements, and a fresh aroma.

However, if I’m choosing which to wear, I’m still riding with Intense. I love the depth of this fragrance. I enjoy the booziness and amber, the sweetness, and woody base. I think it smells better.

If you liked the original or Invictus Aqua more, you might want to go with Legend. But out of these two, Intense is still number one. Though, I’d probably pick Legend as my second option.

Winner: Intense

Dior Homme (2011) by Christian Dior

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Somehow, I’ve never gotten around to reviewing the Dior Homme line (other than Sport), up to this time on the website. Since I didn’t have a bottle of this stuff anymore and it’s been a while, I had to get myself a sample vial, and put it through its paces once again. In this post, I’ll cover what’s its notes are, how it smells, performs, and whether or not it is worth a buy.

What does Dior Homme Smell Like?

Notes include: vetiver, iris, cacao, bergamot, amber, leather, sage, and lavender

Click here to try: Dior Homme By Christian Dior For Men. Eau De Toilette Spray 3.4 Ounces

My Full Review

Note: Dior has updated Dior Homme with a new formula, that I have yet to try, but will smell quite different. It apparently doesn’t have the iris note. In this post, I am reviewing the last formulation, which was a sort of reformulation itself...Dior does these things. So, note that if you’re buying from the major retailers going into 2020, you’re going to be getting something different than what I’m describing here. I will do a separate review for the new release, when I get to test it out.

I am updating this review, a few years after the fact. Why? I needed to expand upon this fragrance and what it is. I purchased a bottle in the largest size, after my initial review, and it became my go-to scent outside of testing things for this site.

The opening of Dior Homme is a clean rush of iris, that has sort of a unisex quality to it.  However, there is this underlying cacao note that gives it a certain sweetness and helps to further the powdery aroma.

The cacao will get a bit stronger, later, but does make an early appearance. Dior Homme is very smooth and floral, especially once the lavender note begins its ascent.

What I think is unique about this fragrance is its use of bergamot. Obviously, lots of male scents use this notes, but here it is so damn subtle and just about perfect in how it comes across. It’s just a peak of citrus popping off of the floral/leather/cacao notes, which gives it this zesty freshness.

It is an interesting contrast, between the light juiciness of the bergamot, and the underlying dryness coming from various notes like sage and vetiver. The sage is only noticeable to me, for a brief period of time.

I’ve smelled it as a more intense note in other men’s fragrances, but it has never had that much power in this composition.

To me the cacao isn’t as noticeable as it is in Dior Homme Intense, but it does give off that sweetness, and I think it’s the leather that’s holding it back somewhat. Then, there is the vetiver, which has the woodsy sharpness that seems to tie things together.

What I’m ultimately left with is a smooth and fresh blend of mostly the iris and leather. The cacao and lavender, as a secondary pairing. Some amber, with whatever’s left of the other notes. It hits my nose with such a cooling sensation. Like, a really dry cold breath of fresh air.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

Projection wise, I’d call it a softer fragrance. Not super weak but more toward the moderate end of the scale. It’s not an overwhelming beast, but does have a nice perimeter around your person.

The longevity lasts me from anywhere to 5-7 hours, depending on the circumstance, and it can hang around on the skin for longer than that…but that’s when it’s noticeable.

Update: with the full bottle and its powerful sprayer, the longevity is a bit better than 5-7 hours. Now, I’d say it’ll give me 8 hours, pretty regularly. 9 with good climate conditions.

Seasonally, I wear this mainly in autumn and winter. The springtime is great too, but I generally stay away from the heat of summer.

The high humidity can make it a bit messy. We’ve had a week of temperatures of 50-75 degrees Fahrenheit, and Dior Homme, fits in beautifully.

In terms of its versatility, Dior Homme is on the dressy casual to fully dressed up end of things. Though, I would honestly have no problem wearing this anytime, it does have that air of class, maturity, and refinement.

So, yeah, you could wear this casually or out on a date. It does have a sexy quality and women enjoy smelling it.

The reaction that you get will largely depend on how that person, deals with the iris note. Some don’t like the powdery or ‘make up bag’ sort of smell. Though, the leather and other notes, do prevent this from being a female scent…for me at least.

I’ve never once gotten a negative reaction from wearing Dior Homme, but I have gotten a ton of positive reactions. It’s not necessarily the most complemented, but it does draw them.

Overall Impression of Dior Homme

Overall, would I recommend Dior Homme? Of course. It’s probably a classic, at this point in time. It’s such a well balanced scent that has a interesting and unique aroma, that can be appreciated by anyone, and not just those who are really into niche fragrances. This is great juice.

I’m kind of sad that they’re reformulating this cologne. I still have plenty left, but I guess I may need to buy another back up bottle, unless the new version just blows me away.

Dior Homme is a modern fragrance, that is extremely well put together. It has been emulated by other colognes, over the years, but this remains my favorite use of the iris note. I love this scent, it’s basically my signature wear, if I can have one outside of my commitments to this site.