Enigma Deux

First Impressions & Dry Down

Enigma Deux opens trying hard to be Angels' Share. The boozy cognac note is there, kinda, with a decent hit of cinnamon. However, it's immediately apparent this is a budget version. The oak smells a bit synthetic, lacking the depth and nuance of the real deal. The heart comes through with a blast of tonka and praline, almost identical to the original, but with a slightly cloying sweetness. The hazelnut is barely detectable. The drydown is where it differs most. The vanilla and sandalwood are present, but the benzoin feels a bit harsh, leaving a somewhat plastic-like impression compared to Angel's Share's warm, resinous base. I’d say it gets about 84% of the way there.

The Performance Stats

Projection is moderate for the first hour, then it sits closer to the skin. Longevity is decent. I get about 5-6 hours on my skin. Don't expect this to last all day. It’s a noticeable fragrance for a couple of hours, then a pleasant skin scent.

Conclusion

Enigma Deux is a respectable attempt at Angels' Share. If you can't justify the hefty price tag of the original, this is a decent compromise. It's not a perfect replica, the synthetic edges are undeniable, but it offers a similar vibe . Ideal for someone who wants to sample the Angels' Share profile without committing to the full bottle price. If you appreciate subtle nuances and higher quality ingredients, yes. But if you're simply looking for a sweet, boozy, gourmand fragrance, Enigma Deux will do the job.