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Polo Crest by Ralph Lauren

Artemesia, Basil, Bergamot, Cumin, Juniper Berry, Rosemary.
Carnation, Geranium, Jasmine, Pine Needles, Rose, Thyme.
Amber, Cedar, Leather, Musk, Oak Moss, Patchouli.

Approximately a quarter century ago, Polo Crest was released. Since then, there have been a few imitators good and not so good. Truth be told, others already blazed this trail before Lauren decided to try his hand at it. The Artemesia, Juniper, Carnation and Pine remind us of certain releases going back at least 15 years.

This combination of implemented notes cannot avoid conjuring up others that are in this genre. That said, how does Polo Crest stack up or even better, stand on its own?  Comparisons aside, Crest is classically constructed that gives heed to a time before its own. Dated? I suppose some would and could think so, however it has stood the test of time and definitely has its fans. I would be one of them. Crest affords a mature wear for sure, but one has to remember that during its release, young men were trying, buying and wearing this well done brew.

The contrast it gives pertaining to contemporary releases is a bold one. It will ( more than likely ) paint a mental picture of your Dad or Uncle wearing this back in the day. You hear this often enough on community forums. My mindset is so what? Is "that" so unpleasant that it would stop someone from wearing an iconic scent? Perhaps it is. I choose to wear what I want if I genuinely like it.

Crest opens with a blast of citric woods accented with spice. Within one minute, the floral array of Carnation, Geranium and subtle Rose insert themselves into the accord, followed by an oncoming Juniper and Pine. This is the heart and soul of Polo Crest. It's rugged and masculine, but not macho. This is a man's scent and stands in defiance of the more androgynous masculines available.

As Crest transitions to the base and drydown stages, earth tones, moss, leather and a slightly different rendition of woods comes alive. These are less gregarious and softened a bit, but just as masculine and enjoyable. Sillage is good with longevity approximately 5 hours before I'd consider reapplication. Thumbs up from Aromi for Polo Crest by Ralph Lauren and as always, a sample wear is recommended.

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