Bigelow Barber Cologne Elixir Black No. 1581 (2007)
by C.O. Bigelow Apothecary

Elixir Black smells nearly identical to John Varvatos. Whereas JV is almost nauseatingly sweet, EB is a touch spicier, but is thinner and doesn't last quite as long. I must say I was expecting more from a company which produced such fine shaving products, but I suppose it must have seemed like a failsafe idea at the time. It's inexpensive and really quite good, but if you own one don't buy the other.

26th July, 2010.

This scent smells almost exactly like Vaevatos Vintage. The vanilla is dominant in the dry down which I don't love as much, but overall this is nice scent. I also picked it up on clearance which makes it even better.

12nd January, 2009.

Starts out with a nice oud topnote that is quickly joined (15min) by a sweet tonka, vanilllic amber base that dominates the fragrance as it dries down. This is a warm scent that is rather nicely suited to the cooler months. Black Elixir projects nicely off the skin and lasts about 3-4 hrs. Nice scent, a little unbalanced with vanilla playing too large a role in the composition.

13rd December, 2008.

I find this cologne a little bit too sweet. It is extremely overpowered by the scent of vanilla. Would be better suited as a perfume.

13rd July, 2008.