Bright Crystal Absolu
Eau de Parfum, Versace (2013)

The opening note is raspberry dominant on me, after a brief initial burst of a lemony accord laced with aldehyde-like "icy" characteristics. I get more of a lemon impression that the yuzu that the scent pyramid promises, and the pomegranate mentioned is practically missing in action - no pomegrenade here.

What is definitely present is a white floral drydown, mainly magnolias and also peonies; there are hints of white lotus in the background. The magnolia a particularly good rendering of this tree's blossoms' aroma in a petrochemical way.

A somewhat ambery nonspecific woodsiness - not much acajou to my nose - heralds the begin of the base, whose centrepiece is a cluster of sweet white musks. The previous elements have not evaporated altogether, with the oleander we as well echoes of the raspberry making themselves known now and then until the final moments.

I get moderate sillage, excellent projection, and a good eight hours of longevity on my skin.

A fruity-floral potpourri for spring days, with some nice moments, but rather predictable in some aspects. The basenotes are quite generic, and overall this creation struggles to reach out beyond the usual, expected and middle-of-the-road. On the other hand, it is never sickeningly sweet nor egregiously intrusive. 2.75/5