Earlier this year, I sampled Kilian’s much-hyped Angels Share from their “Liquors Line.” I enjoyed that scent but found its gourmand profile similar to a few others I’ve tested before. So, in the interest of completeness, today’s blog post will feature my thoughts on the three other perfumes in the series.
Kilian – Roses on Ice – This smells ok, and if it were 200 dollars cheaper and available at your local drugstore, would be passable. This cucumber, juniper, and muted rose perfume never really rises to any great heights. It’s fresh, a little spicy, and vegetal. There is no reason to own this when there are so many better options out there. It reminds me a little of Polo Blue, only not as good. And, if you’re after a fresh, peppery rose scent, look at the excellent Moschino Toy Boy. Both are a third of the price of this one.
Kilian – Apple Brandy on the Rocks – A ho-hum mix of bergamot, spices, and boozy fruits that overdoses a little on the fruits. Heads into generic designer musk/ambroxan territory in the dry down. It feels like a cheaper version of Boss Bottled. Kilian has some nerve charging such a high price for this sort of concoction. It was a bit of a disappointment. Stick with the original, which has a little more presence.
Kilian – L’Heure Verte – A real surprise packet. Comparisons with Lolita Lempicka au Masculin are warranted. L’Heure Verte certainly takes some of its style cues from the Annick Menardo classic. It has the licorice anise bite of that scent. However, the Lolita feels heavier, containing all sorts of edible notes, i.e., tonka, praline and vanilla, etc. The green absinthe and the aromatic feel of the woods in the Kilian adds a point of difference and some greater versatility. Still, there’s something undeniably sweet/earthy but edible in the underlying notes of L’Heure Verte, perhaps due to the combined effects of the vanilla and patchouli. It’s my favourite from this line.
Have you tried these new scents? Do you have a favourite?
Bottle images courtesy of Fragrantica.
L’Heure Verte is definitely a winner! Still, I find it overpriced…
Great review!
Thank you very much, Tetê. I think we can say the same about most niche perfumes these days.
Insightful, as always, dear Daniel. I really like Roses On Ice and am yet to try the new additions. Considering his background, I’m surprised it took Kilian so long to launch a boozy range.
Thanks for reading and writing, Rich. If you like the originals, it is likely you will enjoy these ones too.