Acqua di Genova Colonia (1853)
by Acqua di Genova

ACQUA DI GENOVA COLONIA a classic master piece,a sophisticated fragrance that holds a crown in italy,a perfect blend of citrus an lime ,lavender an soft rose,a scent fit for a KING, VILLORESI ACQUA DI PARMA COLONIA an ACQUA DI GENOVA all have a special place in my heart with villoresi slightly winning the 21st century crown with the help of this classic crown holders.

7th July, 2011.

I received a freebie sample of this in a swap and gave it a test without thinking much of it. I've been pleasantly surprised over the first (and subsequent) samplings, which is no small feat given that I'm not muc§h of a traditional cologne fan. As another reviewer said, there's no big surprises here. The mix of citrus to florals is superb and the subtle rose and jasmine take enough edge off the sharp citrus such that the composition is very balanced and very smooth. Longevity is much better then the typical cologne and the woody basenotes clearly distinguishable. I prefer Genova to most of its counterparts (AdP for example) - it's no Eau de Guerlain but it's a thumbs up regardless.

12nd June, 2010.

While I hesitate to give an purportedly traditional cologne a thumbs down, I found AdG to be far too floral, far too feminine, and far too loud to be considered in the vein of colognes as wonderful as Lorenzo Villoresi, Acqua di Parma, and Farina Gegenuber. The opening is a strong white floral backed up by a cloying musky powder.

2nd March, 2010.

This is a very subtle production, nicely balanced and predominantly citric. I agree with a previous reviewer in that there is a discernible presence of lime in the top notes, and it gives the opening a particularly distinct edge. The rougher lavender and rosemary elements are distant sparring partners, and never remotely intrude on what is a rather deftly woven citrus accord.

The gentle floral elements beyond the opening offer a faintly bittersweet passage into the heart notes, but it maintains its slightly tarter side well into the dry down. There are no real shifts in tone, more subtle changes in emphasis, and it is this very clean and subtle character that makes Acqua di Genova so endearing.
In the latter stages, a brief experience of light woods and musk brings a rather simple but engaging fragrance to a conclusion. This fits the bill when I want a cologne to display a lack of contrivance, and seem effortless

5th February, 2010.

I'm a bit confused -- there seems to be 2 versions of this -- one in tribute of 150 years of the original. I purchased the tribute version, which is a more subdued take on the vibrant lemony classic original, being more concentrated on neroli and wood notes and more suited to Autumn.. It reminds me very much of Hermes Concentree Orange Verte, but is slightly more complex. Anyway, both versions are magnificent.

7th October, 2009.

This is a true classic, a lovely scent in the typical cologne style. It has a soft character, the citrus is gentle yet prominent. The citrus notes combine graciously with the rose. The rose is beautiful, not heavy or too sweet. I think this is very similar to R&G Extra Vielle. Light wood notes at the end. No surprises here, but quite enjoyable.

11th September, 2008.