Life Essence (1996)
by Fendi

Nice clean scent, would easily suggest this as a daytime wear, last great too.

Distinguished, gentlemanly scent of great discretion. Classic and understated without being extravagant.
Crisp and clean herbal opening, mossy chypre formula as lasting impression.
Just like Theorema uomo, inspite of various structural differences, the sheer expression of both invigorating yet classy Mediterranean freshness.

Very nice light woody unisex fragrance. The top is very fresh, with greens of grass and various leaves both fresh and dry. The top also has a light cirtus note that goes very well with the whole composition. At times, it reminded me of the very attractive Agua Fresca by Adolfo Dominguez, and that becomes more and more apparent as the drydown progresses. I can imagine a cool, young european bussinessman wearing this on a holiday or on any free days. Many women like this as some friends were surprised when I showed them the scent and they said it was very refreshing and cool, without being bland. The sillage is very nice too, and the longevity can be different depending on skin types. The drydown is all soft woods and almost like swedish furniture and teak, but still with a fresh breath in it given by the oakmoss.

I rather like this, but don't understand why it's touted as a men's fragrance. If I remember correctly (and I could be wrong), Fendi marketed this as a unisex fragrance.

Life Essence by Fendi is a finely constructed aromatic wood fragrance. As another reviewer said, there is something in the citrus opening that is reminiscent of L’Eau d’Issey, but I find that it soon changes to become an excellent warm, green, coniferous accord quite different from Issey. At any rate, the middle notes of Life Essence is dominated by a cypress note is quietly solid and captivating. The dry down continues the aromatic conifer motif with an enjoyable cedar smoothed and supported by sandalwood and moss. Life Essence is a very interesting fragrance that I especially like because it is rather understated, making it a great fresh wood scent for the office.

A friend described this one as "aggressive". Hmmm...certainly not for everyone in that regard but it is fabulously decadent and makes me think of the hot, rich, older, continental gentleman I hope to meet someday! I use it almost exclusively for celebratory occasions.