Valentino Uomo Intense Valentino 2016

How often have I lingered around DHI? Countless times I found the scent too waxy, too polished, too musty.

Then came the release of VUI: large displays in every store of the Turquoise brand. I tested the fragrance and it enveloped me with what I had painfully missed in DHI: a bold statement. The entire space around me was flooded with this powdery-sweet-bitter scent. The sage and leather shake hands in reconciliation, only to immediately go to war with the vanilla and tonka bean. I think I also perceive chocolate in a distant form. Towards the end of the fragrance, you can smell the base DNA of Valentino Uomo. A soft and creamy caramel coffee on a leather couch, with the leather not being particularly dominant for me. Rather, it plays a role in the background. For me, this is an absolute autumn and winter scent. In both summer and spring, it would be way too strong and too sweet for me. However, in the winter months, it provides a cozy warmth.

The longevity and sillage are both extremely strong at first, but later the sillage decreases significantly, leaving behind a light aura that surrounds you. The scent can cling to me until the next day.

I ultimately purchased mine at the Valentino Boutique in Rome and am glad to have it in my collection now (the bottle is also great! *melts*). Absolute recommendation from me, the better DHI and a great "gift scent"!