Drakkar Essence Guy Laroche 2014

This scent will complete my collection of fresh fragrances for the time being, now that the cold season is approaching and I truly have enough options among the fresh makers. But why, among all my recent tests, Drakkar Essence? On one hand, because this fragrance is strong and I mean that in the literal sense. There are probably only a few fresh scents with such a pronounced presence and aura.

That the menthol contained in the mint is the decisive essence or Essence here is something no one can deny. One could easily refer to this EDT as the "Wrigley's Airwaves" among fragrances, which is by no means meant to be derogatory. Because despite all the mintiness, one never thinks of comparisons with Pinimenthol or the like. It is too well balanced by woody notes as well as musk and grapefruit.

This results in an overall very strong freshness that is neither particularly green nor extremely aquatic and only slightly citrusy. In that sense, everything has been done right ... and yet: There is also a distinct trace of classic aftershave in here, and anyone who is reminded of one or another shower gel must be granted this opinion. That is not inherently bad, as shower gels are made to give the skin a nice fresh aroma - but I can understand if the attribute "cheap" pops into someone's mind ... and I feel a bit that way too.

Drakkar Essence is certainly a highly underrated fresh fragrance for a low price. Those who like mint will find it to their taste. Longevity and sillage are above average for a representative of this genre. However, Drakkar Essence is not modern in the sense of being original. It's solid, but a bit old-fashioned, quite distinctive, but more on the "Duschdas level."