Quercus by Penhaligon's, 1996

Quercus is a lightweight clean and elegant citric floral-chypre with a woody foundation that turns out initially cool, pungent, minty and aqueous, may be a bit metallic, in order to become soon warmer, mossy and fruity. The fragrance, in the same vein of fragrances like some Acqua di Parma's and Ck One, has that crisp lemony vibe that turns it out as a bit old-school british style as happens with many of the brand in the age of the dark syrupy and powdery scents. The juice is very appreciated by women and by many sellers is marketed as feminine. The floral heart, with prominent lily of the valley, reminds effectively a bit the CK One vibe but this fragrance becomes endly slightly more fruity and womanly. The flowers, in accordance with the usual appointments of the brand, are astringent and botanic. The prickliness of cardamom manteins the juice in the unisex range. The base turns out deep and boise with a touch of galbanum, amber, fruit and musks, manteining the initial translucency with just a subdued coolness, a certain soapiness and with a notable woody note od sandalwood. Pleasant citric-mossy juice with a certain fruity/floral sophistication.

The initial citrus impression is short-lived  and swiftly followed by Bergamot and most predominantly Lily of the Vally; the sweet floral mote of the latter being the core contributor to the unisex nature of this scent.  On my skin the oakmoss stays in the background, but some of the later wood and musk develops nicely; the wood note is the reason that a traditional man can carry this off well, although on a skin that emphasises the floral components that might be more difficult.  The similarity to CK One is obvious, but there are differences, especially the lack of the synthetic undertone in Quercus. The longevity is exceptional in my experience; about eight hours or more. The Quercus hand creme is of phenomenal quality, but the deodorant stick appers to contain quite a bit of alcohol that might be an irritant for some skins. Try (on your skin) before you buy. 

The top notes of lemon, lime and mandarin combined with bergamot create a very slight citric opening which feels too meek for comfort. It reminds me of Nivea shaving balm in the early stages, which for a fragrance of this pedigree is highly disappointing. However, the drydown is far more refined and closer to what I had hoped for from the outset. The base of oakmoss, sandalwood, galbanum, musk and amber are olfactory stalwarts which ensure that Quercus finishes very well. If the opening had been more enterprising I would have loved this, as it is, this is an unbalanced let down.

There is no question on the resemblance to CK 1. Its a virtually identical scent but the quality of the Penhaligon is much higher. Its not as sharp, artificial or offensive. I hate CK1 but actually like Quercus. Longevity is good on me too, I got about 10 hours of a three spray application this morning. Projection could be better but its not a major failing on this point, merely 'adequate'.

I have to give this a Thumbs Up just because I reach for it so often, but only because it is so easy. It asks very little of you, and some days you need that! Bright, fresh, looks just like water, nothing to trouble you really. Although someone in my office this week asked if someone had opened some glue as I walked past... Could you wear it with a hangover? Most certainly, this is a go to fragrance for those 'muzzy days'.

Lovely citrus opening, Floral dry-down. Problem is Projection. I put on a few daubs, couldn't smell it. dumped on about 1ml, still sniffing hard with nose to collar to catch a whiff. I LOVE the fragrance, but it is almost like your favorite fragrance, diluted in a liter of water, then applied. Make this in a Parfum...I'd buy it!

The opening of Quercus has lemon-lime and green herbal (basil) notes which are refreshing and lively. The floral notes are effectively used for a mans fragrance: they soften but are not sweet and do not dominate. There is an attractive moss base, with a tiny bit of spicy green galbanum. A bit of sandalwood peeks through as well. This is a medium-toned scent: it is attractive in a low-key way. I find it pleasant, but not compelling or distinctive. It is a mossy sort of scent, not outstanding nor distinctive. Mild endorsement. (revised from previous review)

A light citrus nothing. I emptied the sample vial contents over my upper torso 'Mandom' style but half an hour later I wondered if it was all a dream... Hardly any smell to start with so commenting on longevity would appear redundant. The best I can say is that it is unlikely to cause offence.

I think I will be stating the obvious again, but this really almost the same scent with CK One. Disappointing.

Quercus - soft,warm, and brown. No, not like a sleeping puppy, more like a kinder, gentler, more civilized Quorum. Imagine a retired banker, of the old school, Eton and Oxford bred. Distinguished and masculine but with a slightly subdued sperm count. He potters about in his garden, he potters about in his club, he potters about at the County Show. Fellow says to him in the latrines: "What ho, Reggie, damned fine scent you're wearing! What's it called?" "Quercus, don't you know, well accepted everywhere, quality all the way. Doesn't shout too loud but lets you know it's got the money."