Absolute Love Potion

Notes & Nuances

Absolute Love Potion aims for Initio's Absolute Aphrodisiac, and the resemblance is noticeable. The initial blast presents a heady mix of white florals and a sweet amber accord. The vanilla in the heart is immediately present, supported by a musky foundation. There's a distinct castoreum note attempting to add animalic depth, but it registers as somewhat synthetic, unlike the smoother rendition in the original. The drydown unveils a leathery amber, less refined, more blunt. It mimics the key elements, but lacks the nuanced blending. I'd estimate this is about 90% close. The crucial difference lies in the ingredient quality; this is where the separation happens.

Wear time & Sillage

Longevity is impressive, clocking in at around 8-10 hours on skin. Projection is moderate, creating a noticeable scent bubble for the first 2-3 hours, then settling closer to the skin. Sillage leaves a faint trail, but not a room-filling statement. Decent performance for a clone house.

The Verdict

Absolute Love Potion is a competent interpretation of Absolute Aphrodisiac. If you crave the scent profile and find Initio's price prohibitive, this is a viable alternative. However, be aware of the synthetic edge, particularly in the castoreum and leather notes. For those sensitive to such nuances, the original remains the superior choice. Worth buying if you prioritize affordability over ultimate refinement. Don't expect perfection; expect a good imitation.