Hello again,
I’m back with another vintage review, and today I’m examining an inspirational and nostalgic fragrance for many, Aspen by Coty! Originally introduced in 1989, Aspen is a near-clone of Davidoff’s Cool Water, itself introduced one year prior. Without a sea water note to soften the mint in the latter’s formula, Aspen gets its freshness from various citrus fruits such as bergamot and is supported by a floral heart with a woody-amber base.
Aspen opens with a bright burst of orange, lemon, and lime and is quickly followed by an airy-floral heart that cannot be pinned-down to a single flower, but jasmine and lavender predominate the drydown. This initial impression lasts throughout the day and is supported by a lovely heart of juniper and coriander. The final notes of amber, musk, and cedar are a well-appreciated addition to this powerful fragrance.
While Cool Water fans may not be as impressed by Aspen due to its lack of more hydrating accords, it is certainly more complex and reveals more nuances, over time. And for the price, I’m not sure I would even consider buying Cool Water again knowing Aspen can be had for under $10 at discount retailers!
- Concentration: Eau de Cologne
- Primary: Bergamot, Lemon, and Jasmine
- Secondary: Lavender, Coriander, and Oakmoss
- Tertiary: Musk, Amber, and Cedar
- Sillage: Even as a cologne, Aspen projects like a powerful parfum as its bergamot and lavender notes are detectable from a decent distance.
- Longevity: Again, as an EdC, I am very impressed! I thought the relatively small amount of parfum in the formula would make this a 2-3 hour wear, but I get a good 4-5 hours, on a given day!
- Versatility: This is not the most widely wearable fragrance I have worn, but it certainly has its place – especially in these hot summer months! Some have said it gives off a bit of an ‘old man vibe,’ and I understand that argument, but I just love it.
- Originality: As a close imitation of Cool Water, I am impressed with the – however, I’m not surprised this was released just a year after the widely successful and disruptive Davidoff fragrance was introduced.
- Packaging: Simple, clean, and old-school in the Coty tradition… not much more to say!
- Price: For under $10, this is a tremendous purchase – even if blind – as it is both powerful and a crowd-pleaser.
- Overall: While complex and strong, at times, Aspen is not overly challenging, projects well, lasts a good amount of time, and is great for hot summer days. I think you’ll really enjoy this fragrance!
- Score: 9/10
Thanks so much for reading!
