Come sit on butterfly`s wings and court the thoughts of magnolias.

After a few visits to my favourite, local fragrance counter recently, I sampled some 15 men`s fragrances and was later taken aback by their ephemeral nature, save for one brand, which was too pungent for too long, and one other, which was just right--the newest Calvin Klein offering to the fragrance fold: "Euphoria Intense" (distributed by Coty Prestige, U.S.). Released earlier this year, it is a follow up to their similar brand from 2005, whose moniker was simply "Euphoria" (garnering a Fifi Award in 2006). "Euphoria Intense" was developed by cognoscenti noses Carlos Benaim (who was granted a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Society of Perfumers in 2004) and Loc Dong (who also created "Euphoria" with Benaim and Dominique Ropion). Benaim and Dong have each played a role in crafting literally dozens of popular fragrances for men and women and had collaborated on seven previous olfactory projects. "Euphoria Intense" eau de toilette spray is presented in an oblong, slightly rounded at the corners, bottle. The liquid inside is of a burnt umber colour. An iridescent bronze, rectangular block cap covers almost the entire top of its glass container, which is housed at the perimeter of its flanks and crest in metal--like a warrior`s helmet--boldly exemplifying masculinity. "Intense" belongs to the oriental/woody olfactive group, and although there may be other notes that comprise its bouquet, i.e., rainwater, sudachi, etc., the signature is basically, starting with the top notes, the spices ginger and pepper. The middle notes involve the green/grass components of black basil and hydroponic sage, plus the woods/mosses of cedar and vetiver. The bottom notes feature the animal source element ambergris, the flower labdanum, the resin/balsam myrrh, the woods/mosses agarwood (oud) and patchouli. Compared to its former namesake, "Euphoria," "Euphoria Intense" is, unequivocally, more intense (no pun) and oriental smelling, as well as sweeter. However, it is an intriguing departure from what I was sporting earlier: "Georgio Armani Emporio" (citrus/aromatic), "Prada Amber Pour Homme" (oriental/fougere) and "Hugo Boss Number One" (animalic/aromatic/citrus). One has to be careful with this new edition as it can be smothering if copiously applied; otherwise it is a simplicity to wear. The man exuding it wishes to very warmly, but tactfully, enrapture its receiver in the world`s garden of curious presence and it is therefore recommended for romantic wear. Calvin Klein`s "Euphoria Intense" eau de toilette will magically allow him to come sit on butterfly`s wings and court the thoughts of magnolias.

Reviewed By: James Hogan
On Dated: 09/27/2008

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