Appletini

Olfactory Experience

Appletini by Mawj aims squarely at Kilian's Apple Brandy on the Rocks. The opening has a decent burst of cardamom and a zingy bergamot, reminiscent of the boozy apple accord in the original. However, it's a touch sharper, less refined. The heart attempts to mimic the boozy apple core, using a rum and brandy combo. It gets close, maybe 85% there. The apple is present, but slightly more synthetic, lacking the natural depth of Kilian. The dry down is where the differences are most apparent. Ambroxan and cedar create a pleasant but simple woody base. Apple Brandy features a much richer, vanillic drydown.

Performance Reality Check

Longevity is moderate. I get about 5-6 hours on my skin, which isn't bad . Projection is initially strong for the first hour, leaving a decent scent trail, before settling closer to the skin. It's definitely not a powerhouse, but it does the job.

Final Thoughts

Appletini is a solid attempt at capturing the essence of Apple Brandy on the Rocks. If you enjoy the boozy apple vibe but balk at the Kilian price tag, this is a worthwhile alternative. It's not a perfect dupe; the synthetic edges are noticeable compared to the smoother, more luxurious original. However, it's a great everyday fragrance, and it's a low-risk way to enjoy a similar scent profile. If you are looking for an economical alternative to Apple Brandy, you can't go wrong with this.