The Verdict

Scent Profile: A fresh, woody aromatic blend with grapevine and amber.
Seasonality: Best for cooler months and evening wear.
Sillage: Moderate, projecting up to 5 feet.
Longevity: Lasts 6+ hours.

Introduction

Jo Malone’s Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense is a modern take on a woody aromatic fragrance, designed to appeal to those who crave a more intense and masculine scent. While Jo Malone is often associated with light, floral colognes, this fragrance embraces a darker, more assertive profile. Originally released in 2000, its reintroduction with Tom Hardy as the brand ambassador signals a shift towards a grittier, more rugged image.

Fragrance Notes

Top Note: Cypress
Middle Note: Grapevine
Base Note: Amber

Fragrance Profile

The fragrance opens with the fresh, aromatic note of cypress, lending a green, woody quality that feels crisp and invigorating. The heart of the scent is dominated by grapevine, which adds a slightly green, fleshy, and earthy nuance. The base of amber provides warmth and sensuality, rounding out the composition with a subtle resinous depth.

However, the overall impression of Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense leans heavily into synthetic woody aromas, which can come across as harsh and unrefined. While the intent is to create a bold, masculine scent, the execution feels overly aggressive and lacks the subtlety expected from Jo Malone.

Occasion

This fragrance is best suited for evening wear or formal occasions. Its bold, woody profile makes it a good choice for events where a strong, assertive scent is desired. It’s also fitting for casual outings in cooler weather, where its intensity can complement the crisp air.

Season

Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense is ideal for fall and winter. The warmth of the amber and the sharpness of the woody notes make it too heavy for summer, but it thrives in cooler temperatures where its boldness can shine.

Performance

The “Intense” in the name suggests a higher concentration, and it delivers on longevity and projection. However, the synthetic undertones can be overwhelming, detracting from the overall experience.

Longevity

6+ hours

Sillage

Moderate, projecting up to 5 feet

Conclusion

Jo Malone’s Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense is a bold attempt to venture into more masculine territory, but it falls short of the brand’s usual finesse. The fresh, woody aromas combined with synthetic undertones create a fragrance that feels harsh and unrefined. While it may appeal to those seeking a rugged, assertive scent, it lacks the elegance and subtlety that Jo Malone is known for.

For fans of woody fragrances, this might be worth a try, but it’s unlikely to win over those who prefer the brand’s lighter, more approachable offerings. Its performance is commendable, with moderate sillage and decent longevity, but the overall composition feels more aggressive than luxurious.