Acqua di Parma Colonia (1916)
by Acqua di Parma

I must say this fragrance is truly wonderful. I agree with Luca Turin that is has an Edwardian flair (since it was introduced shortly after he left the throne). AdP opens with a sparkling, elegant lemon tempered with lavender and a bouquet of Herbs du Provence like rosemary, thyme, and basil. After about ten minutes the floral heart kicks in. This is not a perfumey or powerful floral like Hammam Bouquet, but a conservative, moderately dry field of rich Bulgarian roses blended exquisitely with exotic ylang and a drop of stuffy jasmine. AdP eventually dries down to a light musk, moss, and cedar base. As far as I am concerned, this IS the traditional cologne embodying all the elements of turn of the century perfumery. I high recommend it.

A very well made scent for sure; especially for a cologne. That's where it loses me however since I'm not a fan of fragrances that have a distinct "cologny" vibe going on. It has nothing to do with being "dated" either. It's simply a personal preference I have about "Colognes" in general.

That aside, if you like colognes with citric florals, you would be hard pressed to find one that is better than this is.

Truly a "reference" fragrance. Classic in composition, I consider it simply the benchmark of colognes!

Acqua di Parma Colonia is a classic, and deservedly so - its citrus/floral combination is among the best I've smelled. Although it is almost a century old, I don't find it to be dated; while some scents even from the 80s garner "old man" remarks from my fellow 20-something-year-olds, I feel sophisticated, rather than archaic, while wearing this. I would probably own a full bottle if it didn't disappear so quickly; nevertheless, fans of classic citruses should probably give this one a look.

I made the mistake of buying this in the 50ml size and it is almost finished quicker than I imagined. This is for two reasons:

First, if you spray just a litttle it does not last. Spray a lot however and after many hours I can still smell faint, beautiful scent on my skin and shirt. Certainly when spraying a good quantity I get a good four - five hours of good projection and strength, which for and EDC is very good. (Still wished it lasted longer though)!

Second, I love this, and I mean love it. What I love the most are the top notes. They are to me, addictive, so sweet and yet fresh without being aquatic or ozonic type. They are real and solid. I could use this again and again, just for these notes.

Overall, a class act and perfect for a casual evening out, dinner with friends or just for after my usual evening shower to freshen up with.

Only really appeals to me because of the fact that Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant were fans among others. I suppose it does have a touch of class to it but if it was on the shelves of a chemist next to Brut for £5.99 then it wouldn't be touched