Imperial

The Scent Profile

Fragrance World's Imperial aims for Gissah's Imperial Valley, and gets reasonably close, maybe 80-81%. The opening is a bright, peppery bergamot with a herbal edge from the davana. It's a touch sharper, slightly more synthetic than the original, but not offensively so. The heart brings in a woody, slightly medicinal oud alongside a clean rosemary note. The original has a smoother amber nuance; this leans a little drier, a little more austere. The drydown is a musky, leathery vetiver. Where the Gissah is rounded and luxurious, Imperial is a bit more angular.

Bottom Line

Imperial is a solid alternative if you like the Imperial Valley profile but can't stomach the price tag. It's a good daily driver for the office or casual wear. It’s masculine, slightly serious, and won't offend. You're paying for smoother blending and higher-quality ingredients, but Imperial offers a very respectable interpretation . If you want refinement, save for the original. If you want a good-smelling, long-lasting scent that won't break the bank, grab this.

Projection Power

This is where Imperial shines. I get a solid 6-7 hours on skin with moderate projection for the first two hours. It projects respectably. the performance is genuinely impressive.