Eau du Coq (1894)
by Guerlain

This EdC is pretty fizzy, with a lot of the type of sappy lemon that doesn't stand up and rub its peel in your face. It goes through a minute or so of surprising weakness right at the beginning, maybe while the alcohol initially covers some of the notes, so be prepared for this. Even after this phase, I thought I hadn't sprayed enough, so I did some more and I now realize that the stuff is just inherently weak, even for an EdC. I like the sharp intensity and brightness of what little scent it provides, but I've encountered plenty of stronger EdCs with beautifully appealing scents. In the end, you're left with nothing. I'll give them the benefit of the doubt, and conclude that the weakness stems from their using all natural ingredients, but I could just go buy a $5 bottle of 4711 instead. (Already did!)

30th June, 2011.

Nice citrus topnotes, but sorry, too floral and feminine in the heart notes. I don't feel comfortable enough to wear this in public, so I've got to give it a thumbs down.

8th April, 2011.

Eau du Coq (interesting name) is an AWESOME classic eau. It takes the classic formula (think 4711 or Chanel Eau de Cologne) and gives a more herbal, peppery character, but the citrus and big fat neroli are still right there. It dries down to a a nice mossy/woody base that stays close to the skin.

I actually really like this Eaux, because it lasts a few hours on me before finally dissipating. Although, it doesn't beat Eau de Guerlain in my book.

EDIT: Luca Turin calls Eau du Coq, "A good cologne with a drop of Jicky in it". Well, I don't smell anything animalic (perhaps a very slight piss note), and I don't smell any lavender or vanilla. Anyway, if you like Eau du Coq, buy a couple bottles and douse yourself in it because that's what they're meant for :)

23rd March, 2011. (Last Edited: 24th March, 2011.)

Eau du Coq by Guerlain isn't bad, although I found it personally to be too citrus-forward. Guerlain's Imperiale beats Coq for sheer scent, although Coq lasts (slightly) longer.

2nd March, 2011.

People invariably complain when reviewing any Eau De Cologne, that the longevity is abysmal. This is often due to the fact that they are unfamiliar with the purpose of the eaux. Eau de Cologne as a fragrance type (not necessarily simply as a term of dilution) is best seen as a bath or personal hygiene product rather than a perfume. EDCs are used as part of ones bathing process, in lieu of a bath, or as a way to freshen up during the day. Most EDCs can be very effectively used in this manner, while serving as a base to one's fragrance of the day. They most frequently feature fresh hespiridic notes and other types of highly volatile essential oils which give the impression of cleanliness and freshness and thus are not meant to be long lasting in and of themselves.

Eau du Coq is my absolute favorite EDC. It has an opening of citrus featuring a perfect lemon on top of the best hespiridic accord that exists, consisting of bergamot, orange, and neroli. There is a wonderful fresh/floral/indolic center of jasmine, patchouli and lavender sitting on a surprisingly sensual base of sandalwood, oakmoss and a subtle hint of civet. Never has there been a better EDC, and I'll be surprised if a better one is ever developed. I will never be without Eau du Coq for any reason whatsoever.

4th January, 2011.

Spectacular. I find it very hard to pick out the individual notes in this beautifully blended, fresh, extremely complex fragrance. A bright, utterly characteristic citrus of gossamer lightness, with a complex and slightly bitter herbal heart. It gives the tiniest suggestion of something foul, not in a bad way. Sophisticated, sexy, could be unisex, and unlike anything in the boring mainstream. Alas I find the longevity to be rather weak, which I guess is not too surprising for a classic eau de cologne. A must-have.

10th October, 2010.