Kismet Moscow

Is it Worth It?

For the cost, Kismet Moscow is a solid alternative if you crave the Vodka on the Rocks vibe without the Kilian price tag. The synthetic aspects are noticeable, particularly in the base. The Kilian offers a refined, higher quality experience, but it costs nearly ten times more. If you're on a budget and just want a similar scent profile for everyday wear, Kismet Moscow is a reasonable choice. It's a "good enough" situation -conscious fragrance enthusiast.

First Impressions & Dry Down

Kismet Moscow aims for Kilian's Vodka on the Rocks, and it gets respectably close. The initial blast is a bracing mix of aldehydes and coriander, hinting at that icy vodka accord. Cardamom adds a spicy warmth, a slight departure from the original's cleaner opening. The heart develops into a rosy, slightly tart rhubarb with lily-of-the-valley. It's pretty, but lacks the sharp, almost mineral coolness of the Kilian. The base is where the clone falls short. Ambroxan is prominent, giving a synthetic ambergris vibe, and the oakmoss is muted. Original is fresher, more transparent in the dry down. I'd say it hits around 89% of the original.

How Long Does it Last?

Longevity is surprisingly decent. I get about 5-6 hours on skin with moderate projection for the first hour, settling closer to the skin afterwards. Not a beast mode fragrance by any means, but acceptable .