Memoir Man Impression

The Scent Profile

Generic Perfumes' Memoir Man Impression opens with a bracing, albeit slightly sharp, accord of wormwood and mint. The basil is less pronounced than in the Amouage original, lending a somewhat less complex initial green facet. The heart aims for the distinctive incense and lavender interplay, but the incense here lacks the smoky depth and leans towards a more synthetic, almost pine-like quality. A ghost of rose is present, but barely perceptible. The base offers a predictable tobacco and leather combination, rounded with sandalwood. However, the sandalwood is quite subdued. Overall, it approximates the original's DNA at roughly 84%, sacrificing nuanced smokiness and depth for a more linear, less refined experience.

Wear time & Sillage

Longevity is surprisingly decent. I get around 6 hours on skin with moderate projection for the first hour, settling closer to the skin thereafter. It's office-appropriate in terms of sillage but may require reapplication throughout the day.

The Verdict

This Memoir Man impression captures the essence of the original, but the composition exhibits a distinct synthetic edge. If you're content with a simplified rendition and don't mind a slightly harsher opening, this could be worth a try. However, for the true aficionado, the original's complexity and refined ingredient quality justify the higher price tag.