Smalto Pour Homme by Francesco Smalto

Lavender, Clary Sage, Bergamot, Anise, Neroli, Tarragon, Rosemary.
Geranium, Rose, Heliotrope, Carnation, Cedar, Cyclamen, Juniperberry.
Oakmoss, Tonka Bean, Vanilla, Amber, Leather, Musk.

If you happen to enjoy classic masculines, Smalto will not leave you disappointed. For a good example, I like and wear Alain Delon Plus. While both it and Smalto are assuredly related, Smalto is smoother and leans farther "green" than Delon, but these and a host of others from that era were cast from the same mold. It is a bit retro, but very viable to those who eschew loud classics, yet enjoy their construction.

Smalto's citric-lavender opening is very bright, aromatic and enjoyable for the first few minutes or so before settling down. It mushrooms on the skin and is accented by green spices. The presence lowers quickly and morphs into the classic, 1980's vibe.

Smalto showcases a green theme on me, courtesy of herb, spice and cyclamen. There's a subtle smoke and balsam in the mix and these qualities mix well with the undercurrent of wood and floral tones. Smalto is a fougere that has you believe it's a powerhouse 80's scent the first couple of minutes. I'm taken aback at just how quickly it becomes "respectable". Picture Stallone shedding his skin to reveal he's actually Michael Caine.

There seems to be numerous masculines of this ilk that accomplish similar results. Smalto is just one more on the list, but it still is every bit as good as its competitors. It simply brings nothing new to the classic table.

Once Smalto transitions into the base and drydown, it lowers the presence and volume even more. This stage is more or less predictable in how it smells. The lavender is still accounted for, but gives way for some leathery moss to inhabit the accord. The essence of Smalto is moss, leather and wood that have tilted green the entire ride.

I find Smalto average but good. It's good bang for the buck currently, but unless you love classic fougere's, I strongly recommend a sample wear. Neutral rating from Aromi with positive attibutes.

Comments

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