When I read the words cinnamon and orange in a fragrance pyramid, I jump right at it, as I did here, since I am still on the lookout for a scent where this combination is at the forefront.
After I had blindly purchased a sample, the first test followed with joyful anticipation, but this was not fulfilled as I had thought.
L’eau de Tarocco begins herbaceous-citrusy, reminiscent more of the peels of citrus fruits than their contents, with no trace of sweetness.
Quickly, a spiciness comes in, where I can most distinctly smell cinnamon and ginger; the citrus fruits are replaced by a dark, fully bloomed rose, creating a truly interesting accord with the spices that I have not encountered before and which thankfully does not veer into soapiness.
Towards the base, it becomes warmer, slightly smoky and woody, and the rose-spice combination recedes.
L’eau de Tarocco is not sweet for me, but primarily rosy-spicy and unfolds best at higher temperatures. It is therefore also a nice change from the common colognes, which can become quite boring after frequent wear ;-)
After I overcame the initial "shock," I now like it well and it could develop into a candidate for repurchase when the sample comes to an end.
The longevity is typical for colognes at 2-3 hours, with sillage in the lower mid-range.
The 200ml bottle has a nice appearance, but unfortunately is very unwieldy for me.