Montaigne Coco

Conclusion

Montaigne Coco delivers a passable imitation of Coco Vanille, landing at roughly 90% accuracy. The opening is the weakest point, and the drydown lacks the depth of the original. However, considering the price difference – Coco Vanille is easily 10 times more expensive – Montaigne Coco represents a worthwhile option for those seeking the general vibe without the hefty price tag. If you prioritize a hyper-realistic coconut and vanilla experience, stick to the original. But if you're budget-conscious and seeking a pleasant, albeit somewhat synthetic, tropical fragrance, this is a viable choice.

How it Smells

Montaigne Coco opens with a blast of coconut. It's undeniably present but leans toward the synthetic side, lacking the creamy, natural nuance of Mancera's Coco Vanille. The white peach attempts to soften the initial hit, but it remains a somewhat artificial tropical accord. The heart reveals a floral bouquet dominated by tiare and ylang-ylang. Jasmine lurks, adding a touch of sweetness. This phase mimics the original fairly well, achieving about 90% accuracy. The drydown presents the most significant departure. Where Coco Vanille offers a rich, almost gourmand Madagascar vanilla, Montaigne Coco substitutes a thinner, less complex vanilla note. The white musk is amped up, creating a slightly powdery finish. The promised woody notes are barely detectable.

Performance Reality Check

Longevity is surprisingly decent. Expect around 6-7 hours on skin, with moderate projection for the first two hours before settling closer to the body. Sillage is noticeable but not overpowering.