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Dior Sauvage EDT vs EDP Comparison

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For this head to head cologne match up, it’s an eau de toilette and eau de parfum battle between: Sauvage EDT vs. Sauvage EDP. The original and its flanker follow ups, have become the most popular fragrances in the world. So, there are many who want to know the distinctions and strengths of each option.

Which one of these Christian Dior fragrances smells the best? Which one has better strength? Is sexier? Please continue below for my full comparison, as well as, my original reviews for both of these scents.

Note: If you’re looking for the new releases, Sauvage Parfum or Elixir, click there for my full review on it.

Quick Overview

My Verdict

Dior Sauvage EDP is the better fragrance. It smells smoother, performs better, and feels more refined than the EDT.

The EDT is still good, but the sharper bergamot, Sichuan pepper, and lavender opening can be a bit much. The EDP fixes those issues with warmer ambroxan, smoky vanilla, nutmeg, and anise. I would choose Sauvage EDP over the EDT

Category Dior Sauvage EDT Dior Sauvage EDP Winner
Opening Sharp bergamot, Sichuan pepper, and lavender. Intense at first, but smoother once the pepper settles down. Warmer and smoother with ambroxan, smoky vanilla, nutmeg, anise, and less lavender. Less sharp and more wearable. Sauvage EDP
Projection Starts strong, then settles into a more moderate projection after the opening stage. Projects more powerfully and creates a warm scent cloud with only a few sprays. Sauvage EDP
Longevity Lasts around 6-7 hours in warm weather and about 8-9 hours in colder weather. Can last 10+ hours and has a clear advantage in overall staying power. Sauvage EDP
Versatility Very versatile and works casually, dressed up, at the club, and across different climates. Slightly better in warmer weather. Also very versatile and may be a better fit for formal situations due to its smoother, warmer profile. Tie
Overall Scent Good, popular, and useful, but sharper, spicier, and more copied than the EDP. Cleaner, warmer, sexier, smoother, and better performing. The vanilla and ambroxan combination improves the Sauvage DNA. Sauvage EDP

Sauvage EDP or EDT? Tale of the Tape

Sauvage EDT

Notes include: Bergamot, Ambroxan, Sichuan Pepper, lavender, pink pepper, and more

Click here to try: Sauvage by Chrisitan Dior Eau de Toilette Spray for Men, 3.4 Ounce

Read my review: Sauvage EDT Review

Sauvage EDP

Notes include: nutmeg, bergamot, ambroxan, vanilla absolute, lavender, Sichuan pepper, anise

Click here to try: Sauvage by Dior Eau de Parfum Spray 100ml

Read my original review: Sauvage EDP

Opening

The opening of the EDT features a fairly sharp bergamot note that is joined by the spicy Sichuan pepper and calming lavender. It’s pretty intense to my nose, not that pleasant from the jump, but it does calm down and get smoother as it moves forward.

It’s just the way that the citrus juiciness interacts with the spicy warmth of the pepper, I find it to be somewhat bothersome. Not terrible, but the eau de toilette original, never fully won me over to its opening charm.

I think that the eau de toilette, really starts to shine once the pepper fades a bit, and the lavender/ambroxan combo get into full swing. With those notes flanking it, the citrus smells better, as well.

It becomes balanced, instead of ‘in your face’.

Sauvage EDP,  starts off with the ambroxan note that has become a distinct ingredient in both of these scents. The ambroxan is warm and joined by a nice smoky vanilla and less lavender than the EDT version.

When it doesn’t have the same Sichuan pepper blast, I find the result to be much more pleasant and wearable. The nutmeg and anise, share some of the weight of that accord, and the end result is great.

Which do I prefer? The EDP, it doesn’t have the sharpness or spiciness of the original, and it’s just a better aroma for me. There still is enough spice to keep the eau de parfum from being flat and boring, but it also keeps things smooth.

It is a simple change of the composition’s structure and the addition of the vanilla, but Dior did it perfectly and improved upon the original.

To me, the opening of the EDP is the perfect Sauvage blend to date, and I doubt, that they’ll be able to improve upon it.

Edge: EDP

Projection

Sauvage EDT has pretty strong sillage from the start and then settles into something more moderate. The EDP should have the ability to project itself better, since it has a higher concentration of fragrance, does it?

Yep, the EDP is a beast with its sillage. It doesn’t take much to create a warm cloud of fragrance around the wearer and it keeps going.

When testing it out, numerous times, the EDP really only needed a few sprays. Anything beyond that, can fill up a room, rather easily. The original can do the same, but only for a short while, before it turns moderate on my skin.

So, the EDT even when starting strong, never seems to reach the same heights as the eau de parfum.

Edge: EDP

Longevity. How long does Sauvage last?

With Sauvage EDT, it lasts about 6-7 hours on my skin when it is warm and the humidity is higher. When it’s colder, I can get about 8-9 hours of wear from it.

How long does Sauvage EDP last? It will go 10+ hours, without any worry that it’ll quit. Seriously, the enhanced concentration and newer composition structure, really boost the longevity of this name.

The Sauvage EDT, is pretty consistent in how it lasts. It’s definitely not a bad option, by any means, but doesn’t hit the same heights as the higher concentration eau de parfum.

I’ve never been able to get double digit hours of wear from the EDT, like some people, apparently can. This is a clear win for the EDP.

Edge: EDP

Versatility

There really isn’t a difference in how versatile either of these is. Both fragrances can fit well in a variety of situations from casual to more dressed up to club wear. They can also work in different climates without much issue.

Maybe, the original feels slightly better in warmer weather, as it isn’t as heavy. Though, it isn’t strictly a summer fragrance either, but it’s solid in the heat. That’s about it.

With the EDP, perhaps it works better in formal situations. Otherwise, it’s an even match. In either case, you will get plenty of opportunity to use whichever Sauvage scent.

Edge: Push

Overall Scent

Overall, which fragrance is the better buy?

I always thought that the original Sauvage EDT was good but not great. It was something that I could wear from time to time, but it never really captured my interest for very long. It’s nice, it’s popular, and definitely has its uses but it wasn’t my favorite.

The more time that I spent with it, the less I enjoyed it. It still has nice aspects, isn’t a terrible fragrance by any means, but I don’t really like wearing it. Plus, it’s been copied to death, and a lot of the originality is gone for me.

The EDP has given me a much greater appreciation for this name. Dior took what I didn’t like about the original (mainly the sharpness and spiciness and abundance of lavender) and then created this version, which is awesome.

It smells better, performs better, and is sexier than the EDT. The ambroxan and vanilla are great together and the spice is more varied and not as strong, as it had been.

The bergamot is a role player in the EDP, but it is much better suited, and adds a change of pace from the rest of the wear.

The EDP is powerful, clean, warm, and just a joy to wear. Without a doubt, I’d pick it over the EDT.  There are too many scents like EDT, trying to be the ‘best dupe’ of Dior Sauvage. EDP hasn’t been copied nearly as much.

Even with the release of the newer Parfum version, the EDP is still the best smelling cologne of the Dior Sauvage lineup.

Winner: Sauvage EDP

Who Should Buy Dior Sauvage EDT?

Buy Sauvage EDT if you want the brighter, sharper, and fresher version. It is still very versatile and works for casual wear, nights out, warm weather, and everyday use. It also makes sense if you prefer a lighter Sauvage or find it at a better price than the EDP.

Who Should Buy Dior Sauvage EDP?

Buy Sauvage EDP if you want the better overall fragrance. It is warmer, smoother, longer lasting, and stronger projecting than the EDT. It is also the better pick if you want Sauvage for dates, evenings, dressed-up situations, or colder weather.

FAQ: Dior Sauvage EDT vs EDP

Which is better, Dior Sauvage EDT or EDP?

Dior Sauvage EDP is better overall. It has a smoother opening, stronger projection, better longevity, and a warmer, sexier scent profile.

It’s my favorite of the entire Sauvage line. You might also check out Elixir, if you want something quite different.

Does Dior Sauvage EDP last longer than EDT?

Yes. Sauvage EDP can last 10+ hours, while the EDT usually lasts around 6-9 hours depending on weather and skin.

Does Dior Sauvage EDT project better than EDP?

No. Sauvage EDT starts strong, but the EDP projects better for longer and creates a fuller scent cloud.

Is Dior Sauvage EDT fresher than EDP?

Yes. Sauvage EDT is the fresher and sharper version, with more emphasis on bergamot, pepper, and lavender.

Is Dior Sauvage EDP more mature than EDT?

Yes. Sauvage EDP feels more mature because it is smoother, warmer, less sharp, and has more depth from vanilla, ambroxan, nutmeg, and anise.

Which Sauvage is better for daily wear?

Both work for daily wear. Sauvage EDT is better if you want something fresher and lighter, while Sauvage EDP is better if you want stronger performance and a smoother scent.

Which Sauvage is better for dates?

Sauvage EDP is better for dates. It is warmer, smoother, sexier, and less sharp than the EDT.

Which Sauvage is better for summer?

Sauvage EDT is slightly better for summer because it is lighter and fresher. Sauvage EDP can still work, but it should be sprayed lightly in the heat.

Which Sauvage is better for winter?

Sauvage EDP is better for winter. It has more warmth, depth, projection, and longevity.

Should I buy Sauvage EDT or EDP?

Buy Sauvage EDP if you want the best overall option. Buy Sauvage EDT if you prefer a fresher, sharper, and slightly lighter take on the Sauvage DNA.

Sauvage EDT by Christian Dior

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In the world of fragrance, it is often an exciting event when Christian Dior releases a new cologne for men. After all, this is a brand which has come out with some absolutely amazing scents in the past and has a long history of creating winners for guy’s who enjoy a sophisticated scent.

In 2015, they released a new fragrance, Sauvage, which features an ad campaign starring Johnny Depp. Since then, this fragrance has become an absolute powerhouse in the world of men’s colognes.

Sauvage is super popular and a constant best seller (literally became the first men’s fragrance to be number one worldwide, outselling even all ladies’ perfumes) . The question is, is it worth it?

In this post, I want to give some of my thoughts about this new cologne and whether or not it lives up to the name of Dior. How does it smell? What are the notes? Does it last long? How’s the sillage? Is it actually something one should buy?

🌍 DIOR SAUVAGE — AT A GLANCE
Fragrance Family Fresh Aromatic Woody
Key Notes Bergamot, Ambroxan, Sichuan Pepper, Lavender, Pink Pepper
Season Spring Summer
Occasion Office, School, Casual, Dressed Up, Bar
Longevity 6–7 hrs typical, up to 8–9 hrs in winter
Sillage Moderate to fairly strong — noticeable without overpowering
Rating ★★★★☆ 8.1 / 10
Quick Verdict
A fresh, mass-appeal daily scent with a sharp bergamot opening, spicy pepper kick, and smooth ambroxan-lavender dry down. Very versatile and easy to wear, especially in warmer weather, with solid performance and broad appeal.

What does Dior Sauvage EDT Smell Like?

sauvage

Notes include: Bergamot, Ambroxan, Sichuan Pepper, lavender, pink pepper, and more

Click here to try: Sauvage by Christian Dior Eau de Toilette for Men, 2 Ounce

My Full Wear Review

By now, one has probably seen the magazine adverts or the short ‘film’ starring Johnny Depp, in the media blitz before this fragrance’s release. This eau de toilette cologne is definitely a mass market affair.

However, that doesn’t mean that it is a terrible cologne. In fact, I rather enjoy the scent even it isn’t 100% unique in it’s scent or even if it can become a signature cologne for a guy.

2022 Update: Sauvage has become an absolute best seller in the world of men’s fragrance and has spawned seemingly endless imitators and somewhat similar scents (like: Dylan Blue)

Before we start, let’s see how Dior describes this eau de toilette: A radically fresh composition, dictated by a name that has the ring of a manifesto. That was the way François Demachy, Dior Perfumer-Creator, wanted it: raw and noble all at once. Natural ingredients, selected with extreme care, prevail in excessive doses. Radiant top notes burst with the juicy freshness of Reggio di Calabria bergamot. Ambroxan, derived from precious ambergris, unleashes a powerfully woody trail. Sauvage is an act of creation inspired by wide-open spaces. An ozone blue sky sprawled above a rocky landscape, white-hot beneath the desert sun. 

The composition is rather simplistic yet definitely delivers the masculine vibe that the designer was going for. The ambergris derivative , Ambroxan, is quite noticeable and gives Sauvage a solid foundation from which to present itself. It is clean, fresh, and inviting with a warm and spicy kick delivered by the Sichuan pepper note.

The opening features a very sharp bergamot note and lavender to go with that pepper kick. It is very similar to that of Luna Rossa Carbon, only that Prada fragrance doesn’t have the same level of citrus intensity in the start. I’ve done a post comparing these two colognes.

While Sauvage definitely has a sharp start, I feel like it gets smoother after some time has passed after application.

On my skin, the citrus subsides, after about 20 minutes of wear and I really start to get a noticeable ambroxan aroma. It is so well blended with the pepper, that some of the spicy edge is taken off of that note. However, the warm and smooth composition does have that solid spice throughout.

Sauvage is another cologne that strikes me as really fresh and sort of has that ‘right out of the shower’ vibe to it. The lavender note, which is found in so many soaps and fresheners, really adds to this feeling.

Lavender is one of the main differences between Sauvage and Luna Rossa Carbon, as it is much stronger in the latter than in this Dior scent.

The floral notes here are a bit underappreciated. Yes, the lavender is prominent in the composition, but there is also geranium and labdanum that are present in the background of Sauvage.

These help to support the outdoorsy, wide open spaces, vision that the designer was going for. They are pretty faint but they can come through in a whiff, if you’re familiar with how these notes smell.

 

While it is warm and has that underlying spice, there is a certain woodiness of cedar, which helps to further the raw masculinity which comes through in this scent. It is a very pleasant experience, though, it does draw reminders of other colognes I have smelt in the past.

So, I can’t really reward it points on a factor of uniqueness. A lot of that enveloping sort of feeling that comes with Sauvage, I think is due to the presence of pink pepper, especially in the dry down. It’s one of the main notes in something like Guess Seductive Homme, and I pick up on that pink pepper vibe with this Dior.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

Sauvage is a fragrance for the warmer months and it did very well on a hot day here. It seems like it should have been released before the summer season and not after because I don’t get a cold weather aura from it at all. That’s sort of odd considering how ‘warm’ it smells with the amber and pepper notes.

It has a moderate to fairly strong projection, in that it doesn’t overpower but it seemed to hold up fairly well on my skin for maybe 6-7 hours so the longevity is at least decent as well.

This is based of doing a few sprays for each wear, however, it can be overwhelming sometimes if you’re prone to wearing a lot of fragrance.

The opening act can indeed pack a punch. But, that is fairly short-lived and it becomes more moderated thereafter. Still, not a bad ability to leave a scent trail or just project off of the skin.

Update: Since I originally wrote this review, I have a lot more experience with Sauvage, and I do get much longer wear during the wintertime. Maybe bump that to 8-9 hours. Humidity, stifles its ability to last on my skin for its full capability.

Other folks report, having much better longevity with Sauvage than I do, and say it goes all day. Again, like every fragrance, it is going to depend on your own skin chemistry and how the cologne reacts with it on a particular day. For me, it’s just pretty good but not outstanding in how long it lasts.

Sauvage is actually a very versatile fragrance and I think that is one of the reasons that it has become so popular with the masses.

It’s something that could be worn to work or school (if you go light), but can be worn causally, dressed up, or even at the bar. It really has become ubiquitous at this point, but it does have so many uses that it’s completely understandable.

Lots of women do find this to be a sexy fragrance. I think it smells more ‘clean’ than anything sexy, but if members of the opposite sex are saying its sexy, I guess it is.

It’s pretty ubiquitous at this point, there are so many guys wearing it, and so many clones that it’s lost some of its appeal.

Overall Impression of Sauvage EDT

Overall, I think this is a very solid cologne but nothing all that special. I’ve never been a huge fan of wearing it, but I like it well enough. Dior Sauvage is too sharp for me at times, but then I catch a whiff and I rather like the ambroxan/citrus/lavender blend of the eau de toilette. I ‘get’ why people like it so much.

Though, as someone who reviews and wears a ton of different colognes, Sauvage just strikes me as kind of meh. However, if you want a cologne that is very versatile, has a wide fan base, and delivers good performance…Dior Sauvage EDT is a solid bet for the vast majority of guys. You won’t stand out, but you’ll get a lot of use out of a scent, with such a massive appeal.

Since the release of this original Sauvage, Dior has also released, the EDP and Parfum versions. In my opinion, they are both better than this one, Sauvage EDP being my personal favorite.

This version is very wearable and will provide a solid daily wear option for many guys. It’s not amazing, but it does an overall good job.

How Sauvage Compares to Similar Fragrances

YSL Y vs. Sauvage EDT– Comparing two popular ‘blueish’ fragrances. This time it’s Y from YSL to compare to the Dior best seller.

Dior Sauvage Parfum vs. EDT– Two variations of the Sauvage name, I personally prefer Parfum against the original. But, what are the differences?

 

Dior Sauvage FAQ’s

Which Dior Sauvage version is best? 

Everyone has their preferences with these fragrances, for me it’s: Sauvage EDP and Elixir. I think that the eau de parfum is the perfect blend of the original EDT formula. Not as sharp, smoother, but with a great dynamic.

Elixir is also great. However, it takes things in a different direction and not everyone will be into that formula. Anyway, here’s how I rank all of the Sauvage colognes: Dior Sauvage Ranked

Is Dior Sauvage good for everyday wear?

Yes, it’s a very versatile cologne. There are reasons that it’s a best seller and one of the main one’s is how it can fit with the style of so many people, in so many situations.

Is Dior Sauvage too common?

It’s been a best selling fragrance for over a decade. It’s been copied by almost every designer and anyone else who makes colognes. So, yes, it is very common. However, people still do like it and you should wear whatever you want to.

There won’t be much, if any pushback or negativity towards wearing it. Guess what? Most people like popular things.

Is Dior Sauvage better than Bleu de Chanel?

Which one? Sauvage EDT? No, I think the Bleu de Chanel fragrances are all better. Sauvage EDP? Now, you have a case. But, here’s how I ranked them: Sauvage vs. BdC vs. Aventus

 

Dune Pour Homme by Dior

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Dune Pour Homme is one that I experienced for the first time many years ago. Sometime in the past year or so, I picked it up again in the form of a travel sprayer decant. I thought that I’d already published my review of it, but I guess not.

So, this is another blast from the past, a fragrance first released in 1997. How does it smell? Is Dune worth a try?

Dune Pour Homme Overview

Notes include: fig, sandalwood, cassis, vanilla, tonka bean, basil, sage, rose, mignonette, cedar

My Full Review

Here’s how Dior describes Dune: Original and harmonious, Dune pour Homme takes its inspiration from breezy seaside escapes. Its composition associates fresh, woody and oceanic notes in a fragrance that is serene and in harmony with nature.

I’m not sure when this scent got discontinued (Update: it is apparently back or has been limited to certain markets. So, you can actually get Dune fairly regularly now). Nor do I know when my decant of it is from. So, who knows if any reformulation took place that effected its performance?

The scent itself, I don’t think so, as that smells exactly how it is sounds based on the notes list.

The opening act is really fresh with basil and sage, coming out of the gate hard. There is a light fruity cassis note that joins, but never feels too pronounced on my skin. It just sort of hangs around for most of the wear.

Under that fresh spice? Fig. Lots of it. Also, mignonette, which based on what I’ve read is giving it that greenish-watery-violet smelling aroma. I like it, more so than the usual violet leaf note that gets stuck into a ton of fragrances.

The basil and sage’s dominance hangs around for a little bit. But, this one will go from more herbal/green/fruity to a warm and dry fresh woods.

That fig, cedar, and sandalwood really take shape. The sweetness here is very light and faint. Sure, vanilla and tonka are there, but not all that noticeable to me. After the first hour, not even on the radar.

I like Dune a lot at this stage. The remaining sage note gives it an enjoyable freshness when paired to that of the woody notes.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

Sillage wise, this stuff is light and airy. Again, maybe that didn’t used to be the case. This batch doesn’t really leave a scent trail and isn’t going to project too far from the skin.

It is a nice scent bubble. 1-4 feet for a majority of the wear. Dune isn’t a cologne that is going to overpower or bomb out a room.

That being said, I can still pick it up on my skin around six hours later. It’s passable, just know what you’re getting into with this Dior.

Seasonally, spring through early autumn. I like this in moderate temperatures and the warmer air. I really want to be outside when I have this on. I don’t live in a desert area, but I could enjoy wearing this around a place like Las Vegas on certain days.

Dune Pour Homme is a daytime fresh woody fragrance. Not a nightlife or romantic wear. But, within that daytime arena, this one is pretty versatile.

It isn’t totally stuffy nor childish. It can work casually or in a more formal setting. Not like tuxedo level, but it’d be fine in an office.

Overall Impressions of Dune

Overall, do I like Dune Pour Homme? Yes, I do. It has a style that is unique and yet feels timeless. I don’t know of another men’s fragrance that smells exactly like this. This Dior is such a departure from the other colognes out on the market today.

It evokes the sandy dry air of the desert, but where it just begins, and not too far off from the sea. I dig these sorts of scents, that give you visions of a specific place you’d want to wear it.

Fig is one of my favorite underutilized notes. The stages of freshness, green herbal, and then warm air and dry woods are great.

The performance? Not so much. Maybe the initial bottles had more power than this. But, this batch is pretty darn airy. When you pick it up, it’s beautiful. But, a lot of the time you won’t even notice.

As a skin scent or a 1-2 foot radius aroma, Dune Pour Homme will stick around for about six hours. Again, not great, but not horrific. If I had a full bottle, I’d be spraying a ton to really try and get the full effect.

As it stands, this Dior is discontinued. It’s a great and unique 1990s fragrance, but not a must have for most people. Sure, if you find a bottle for cheap, give it a try. However, unless you’re a collector, you probably don’t need to chase any super expensive bottles on the internet.

Though, as of now, they seem to still be under $100. So, it’s not too big of a gamble.

Sauvage Elixir vs Eau Forte

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Sauvage Eau Forte is the latest edition of the best selling Sauvage series from Dior. With any new release, it is obviously going to draw comparisons with what came before it. One of the more beloved options is Sauvage Elixir.

I have worn and tested out each of these fragrances fully and now want to compare them against one another in this post. How does each smell? Which lasts longer? Which is the better buy?

Tale of the Tape: Sauvage Elixir vs. Eau Forte

Sauvage Elixir

Notes include: grapefruit, wood, lavender, nutmeg, cardamom, cinnamon, patchouli, vetiver

Click here to try: Sauvage Elixir at Macy’s

Read my review: Sauvage Elixir

Sauvage Eau Forte

Notes include: elemi, spice, blanched lavender, wood, musk

Click here to try: Eau Forte from Sephora

Read my full review: Sauvage Eau Forte

Opening

Sauvage Elixir opens things up with a lot of spice. This Dior has a blast of cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In the top, there is a much lighter grapefruit versus the EDT version’s heavier use of citrus.

The next phase will have more of the lavender and some sweetness from licorice and amber. Sauvage Elixir is spicy, woody, with enough sweetness to change it up. Lots going on in the mix.

Eau Forte begins with a cold and fresh aroma. The elemi note is a mix of waxy and resinous that brings something a tad different to the table . There are spices, woods, and the impression of water from this alcohol free formula. It’s interesting.

The Sauvage lavender note is present and there is a good balance of the ingredients early on. The musk isn’t too much, the spice and cold are actually pretty wonderful.

Which do I prefer? I like how Eau Forte starts. It is much more approachable and less intense than is the powerhouse of Elixir.

Edge: Eau Forte

Projection

Elixir is a very strong fragrance, which projects itself to a wide radius. Now, it will obviously abate somewhat, but it is still going to be a powerful scent throughout most of the wear.

Eau Forte is in the lighter to moderate camp. Initially, it does have some punch, but this Sauvage is going to be more intimate than other editions in the line. It’s also not nearly as heavy of a sillage as Elixir.

It’s not a close match in this category.

Edge: Elixir

Longevity

Sauvage Elixir takes this category easily, as well. It lasts 12+ hours on my skin and is an absolute beast with how it performs.

Eau Forte doesn’t have a ton of power, in terms of projection, but the longevity is actually pretty good in that lighter state. For me, this version of Sauvage hangs around on skin for about 8 hours.

Still, not close enough to challenge Elixir.

Edge: Elixir

Versatility

Elixir isn’t a formal scent. It’s mostly one for autumn and winter. Evenings out or casually. Wearing it for work, you’ll probably want to go easy on the sprays.

In this category, I think Eau Forte is the more versatile of the two, as to when each can be worn.

I think Eau Forte has a more low key vibe that can fit in better for more formalized occasions. Even if it’s not a powerhouse, it’s not out of place in most situations.

That’s what can make it a better play for daily wear situations. It holds up well in almost any climate and doesn’t have that same in your face intensity that Elixir can.

Edge: Eau Forte

Overall Scent

Overall, which of these Sauvage releases do I prefer?

Eau Forte isn’t a bad fragrance. I like the way that it starts things off and I like the transition into the middle notes. It’s got a nice, fresh aroma that makes it very enjoyable to wear.

Now, the back half of the wear isn’t as interesting. More about the lavender note and it doesn’t have too much in the way of an outstanding performance.

It was a release that had a lot of potential, delivering something somewhat different than the other Sauvage colognes, but doesn’t fully capitalize on that. Something I think that Elixir actually did.

But, as a daily wear or something along those lines, Eau Forte is a nice enough cologne, just not great.

Meanwhile, Elixir is bold and the most unique fragrance in the Sauvage line. It is a lot to deal with at times, in the beginning stages of wear. However, I think its depth and nuance use of notes later on are a main draw for me.

Eau Forte isn’t as good as what I get out of Sauvage Elixir. Especially, at the retail price. If Eau Forte comes down significantly when it hits the discounters, that might be a reason to pick it up. Otherwise, I’ll pass.

Winner: Sauvage Elixir

Gentleman Society vs. Dior Sauvage EDT

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Dior Sauvage is a constant best seller, but so is the Gentleman series from Givenchy. It’s just spread over different fragrances with less in common with one another versus the Sauvage lineup.

One of the more popular options over the past few years, has been Givenchy Gentleman Society. Guys will often look for it and want to compare it with the popular Sauvage EDT.

In this post, I’m going to give my comparisons between these colognes, and talk about which I feel is the better of them.

Tale of the Tape: Sauvage vs. Gentleman Society

Sauvage EDT

Notes of Sauvage: bergamot, ambroxan, lavender, pepper, wood notes

Click here to try: Christian Dior Sauvage for Men Eau De Toilette Spray, 3.4 Fluid Ounce

My Original Sauvage Review

Gentleman Society

Notes include: sage, cardamom, daffodil, vetiver, sandalwood, cedar, vanilla

Click here to try: Gentleman Society

Read my review: Gentleman Society by Givenchy

Opening

Sauvage starts off with a blast of bergamot, pepper, and the ambroxan note. It’s super bright, energetic, and clean.

The Sichuan pepper is a powerhouse early on, as is the bergamot note. The citrus here is very noticeable and actually is a nice note, even when it feels quite sharp.

The lavender will take on more of a role later on, but it’s presence is felt throughout.

Gentleman Society begins with a sweet, spicy, and seemingly nutty mix of notes. Sage is a leader up top, with some cardamom also coming through. That’s the spice of the mix.

Not too spicy, but tempered by the vanilla note and daffodil, that has it shine in the early stages of the wear.

Which cologne do I prefer here? I’m going with the Givenchy scent over the Dior for the opening.

It’s more interesting has a smoother blend than what I get with Sauvage EDT.

Edge: Society

Projection

The original Sauvage is an eau de toilette versus Society which is a higher concentrate eau de parfum.

However, it’s actually a closer match up in terms of their projection and sillage. Both start out as being above average with their reach. Neither is a weak fragrance, so don’t worry about that.

Then, both will moderate during the wear.

I think that Society has a high peak, though. Along with that, it maintains a higher level for me for longer.

Not a huge win here, but an advantage for the Givenchy.

Edge: Society

Longevity

With Sauvage EDT, it will last for 7-8 hours on my skin. It’s always been a solid performer and definitely gives you some value, in this regard.

But, Gentleman Society lasts longer than the Dior. For me, it seems to quit around 9 hours, so it can provide an extra hour or two of wear beyond what Sauvage seems capable of.

Givenchy takes this category.

Edge: Society

Versatility

Seasonally, I’d say Society is better autumn through early spring. I’ve worn it when it’s warm out and wasn’t pleased with the results.

Sauvage, does a better job across seasons. I’d still avoid extreme cold with it, but it can be fine for almost any other conditions.

Neither of these is a formal fragrance. Society seems geared toward younger guys, as does Sauvage to some extent. Day or night with either, but Sauvage actually might be the better daily wear.

I think this is where Sauvage EDT has a slight advantage.

Edge: Sauvage

Overall Scent

So, overall, which of these fragrances do I prefer?

I’ve never been a huge fan of the original Sauvage. I don’t hate it, I think that it smells fine, but I have grown tired of it and all the scents that have copied its style.

That being said, I still can appreciate the fragrance’s performance and the dry down which is better once the pepper note calms down.

With the Givenchy, I like the opening 45 minutes or so of the wear. That’s the highlight of the fragrance. After that, it’s fine but sort of boring, but I don’t think Sauvage does anything to make me really want it versus its competitor.

I’ll take Society over a bottle of Sauvage, even if I don’t love that Givenchy cologne. Actually, I would go with Society Extreme, which I enjoy much more than either of the fragrances we’re comparing in this post.

I might also pick Sauvage EDP over Society.

But, between these two, it’s Gentleman Society EDP.

Winner: Society