No. 250E

How it Smells

No. 250E opens with a recognizable lavender and bergamot accord; however, it lacks the nuanced brightness of Dior Homme Intense. The sage note is a heavier hand, lending a slightly more herbal, less refined edge. The heart attempts the crucial iris butter accord, but the synthetic aroma-chemicals are noticeable. It lacks the buttery smoothness of the original, settling for a powdery effect with a hint of pear that feels somewhat discordant. The base is where this clone pulls closer to the inspiration. Virginia cedar is prominent, supported by a vetiver note that provides a grounding earthiness. The leather is a whisper, more of an impression than a defined note. Overall, it mimics roughly 86% of the original's DNA but with noticeable synthetic facets.

Is it Worth It?

No. 250E is a serviceable alternative for someone seeking the Dior Homme Intense profile on a budget. However, the synthetic quality is undeniable, particularly in the opening and heart. If you're sensitive to aroma-chemicals, proceed with caution. If you just want the general vibe and can tolerate a less polished execution, then this could be a reasonable option. But for a casual, everyday wear, No. 250E might suffice.

Longevity & Projection

Longevity is surprisingly decent. I observed around 6 hours on skin with moderate projection for the first 2 hours, settling into a skin scent thereafter. Sillage is minimal, leaving only a faint trail.