Colonia Sandalo Acqua di Parma 2016 Eau de Cologne Concentrée

This fragrance is truly not a "no-brainer," meaning it is not a scent that can be applied thoughtlessly in almost any situation without causing a stir. On the contrary, it is a true "brainer," one that should be chosen with care. A fragrance that requires contemplation. And for that reason alone, it has become one of my favorites at the moment.
Moreover, there is a prevailing attitude that AdP CS is more suited for the established man in his prime. I agree with the former, regarding gender. For me, it is clearly a men's fragrance.
When it comes to age, I am divided. I believe that the noble and elevated DNA contributes to the fact that this fragrance should be worn with precision and style. Of course, it is easier for an "adult man" (I deliberately do not want to specify an age) to create this atmosphere of self-confidence and authenticity than, for example, a restless, searching, and somewhat insecure to naive "young man." But even he can wear it; the only risk is that he might "overdo" it.

Although AdP CS is the only one from this "Eau de Cologne Concentree" line that I have smelled so far, I dare to claim that all releases can be attributed to this distinguished, Italian, stylish, and classically noble label. Just the presentation: brown glass with a bronze-shimmering label, featuring the traditional coat of arms, suggests this in my eyes. In comparison, the Blu Mediterraneo line appears much more youthful, playful, and lighter. Additionally, the unisex classification runs almost uniformly throughout the entire line. Ultimately, while these fragrances are indeed pronounced summer scents, the design of the bottles (not least supported by the latest release, the AdP
Blu Mediterraneo Bergamotto Di Calabria La Spugnatura) consciously targets a broader and more easily impressed audience. I do not want to speak poorly of this, as ultimately the "blue" ones serve as a gateway into the world of AdP. This was also the case for me. Through Fico de Amalfi, I came to love the Italian traditional house and have become quite a fan of it.
And it was precisely through AdP CS that this affection was immensely strengthened.
It has a presence that is very difficult to grasp and describe. I acquired it here in the Souk as an almost full 100 ml bottle, complete with packaging. More or less blind, as it was solely the reviews and statements here that prompted me to get it. And I am very glad about that.

When it comes to AdP and its proprietary DNA, I can say that a lot of value is placed on it. The typical citrus note always resonates, especially at the beginning. However, it never completely disappears; it is merely complemented by other tones in its performance. Particularly in combination with lavender and cardamom, it develops a liaison that, for me, creates the association of a bright/white and warm summer breeze. Not one that nearly overwhelms you in midsummer. Much more one that caresses you in the evening, at cooled temperatures, far from oiled, sweaty, and tanned skin. There is no heavy blow here, and I certainly do not want to refer to it as a "beast" or "sillage monster," but for an understated fragrance, it is indeed very understated or better, it radiates this understated character very strongly outward, as if everyone should really perceive that this is a fragrance that exudes this subtle, refined, self-assured, and elevated demeanor.
As long as there is a certain sensitivity and one consciously chooses this fragrance, it is the absolute foundation of what defines the person wearing it. It gives you this inner strength, patience, balance, and a great deal of dignity. It leaves no doubt in the minds of those around you about your choice. It establishes a connection with you as the wearer that not every fragrance achieves so precisely. This leads to a balance between fragrance and person, a yin and yang that forms a unity and cannot be viewed separately. Therefore, it will not elicit compliments, but not because it is too weak or goes unnoticed. No, the compliments are absent because this fragrance conveys that it does not require any. It is 100% aware of its performance every second and thus needs no recognition. It would much rather let you enjoy the moment without projecting onto individual elements.

As already mentioned, the risk of overdressing with AdP CS is always present. I want to emphasize this point again (!) But with targeted engagement and understanding of this fragrance, it brings immense joy because it shows you that no fragrance in the world can transform its wearer. What it can do, however, is to carry a person's sense of self, good self-understanding, and skilled reflection outward. And not in a flashy way, but extraordinarily uniquely.