Casamorando 1988

The Verdict

Casamorando 1988 is best suited for cooler weather, specifically autumn afternoons. Its bold opening might be overwhelming in warmer environments. It leans toward formal occasions, but its synthetic edge prevents it from truly shining in a sophisticated setting.

First Impressions & Dry Down

Casamorando 1988 opens with a sharp, peppery carnation, underpinned by a significant dose of coriander. The initial impression is reminiscent of old, powdered makeup – slightly dusty, with a metallic tang that borders on unpleasant. The central accord leans heavily on a creamy ylang-ylang, attempting to soften the initial harshness. However, the neroli presents as slightly bitter, like unripe orange peel, rather than its more refined, floral counterpart. The rose is a ghostly presence, barely detectable beneath the dominant ylang-ylang. The drydown reveals a synthetic sandalwood note, accompanied by a birch tar accord that evokes a diluted, smoky leather. The amber base is present, but lacks depth, coming across as a sweet, generic fixative that clashes with the intended refinement. The original composition's sophistication is notably absent here, replaced by a certain loudness and imprecision in the blend.

Performance Reality Check

The longevity is moderately impressive, lasting approximately 6-7 hours on skin. The projection is initially strong, reaching about an arm's length for the first two hours, before quickly settling closer to the skin. I tested this in a climate-controlled office setting.