Domenico Caraceni: 1913

A finely tailored rose-centric scent with an elegance that speaks of impeccable taste, very much like a bespoke suit. I used to think Domenico Caraceni 1913 is gender-neutral but with regular wearings I'm delighted to find it leaning ever so gently towards masculine territory, unveiling a slightly spicy muskiness underneath the plummy rose geranium. It also feels cool and dry as though a subtle vein of resinuous frankincense runs through it, but this is a blend so smooth I've long given up trying to decipher the component notes. Suffice to say I'm happy to join the discerning groups of fans in celebrating such an exquisite fragrance.

Notes:

petitgrain, styrax, geranium bourbon, neroli bigarade, rose absolute, tobacco essence, cypress, frankincense.

Domenico Caraceni: Ivy League

Given a name synonymous with an elite group of institutions bearing proud traditions of sporting and scholarly excellence, Domenico Caraceni's Ivy League certainly has a lot to live up to. naturally I expect a fragrance that is youthfully 'preppy' yet conveys a certain sense of tradition.

Ivy League opens briskly on my skin with bitter citrus, gradually softening to a sparkling blend of light white florals that retains enough of its green soapy profile to keep its sillage freshly-preppy and away from 'mature women' territory. There is also the occasional hint of earthy vetiver roots reminiscent of Dior's Eau Sauvage - faint at first but gaining prominence as the florals recede. Projection and sillage are both tastefully moderate, with just a touch of sweetness in the earthy musk drydown.

While I do wish for the citrus soap element to last longer, in terms of concept Ivy League delivers. Yes, the opening may come across somewhat detergent-like to some but the fragrance development itself is as exhilarating as a road trip with your college buddies. I also think Ralph Lauren would kill to have this formula - Ivy League would have been an outstanding addition to the Polo family!