Blue Candy

First Impressions & Dry Down

Zara's Blue Candy aims squarely for the boozy, gourmand appeal of Kilian's Angels' Share. The initial blast delivers that cognac-cinnamon punch, albeit with a slightly sharper, more synthetic edge compared to the smooth refinement of the original. The oak note is present, but feels a bit like oak flavoring instead of aged oak wood. The heart leans heavily on tonka and praline; it's sweet, nutty, and fairly well-executed. Drydown features vanilla with a supporting sandalwood note. The benzoin is subtle but adds a touch of resinous warmth. Is it Angels' Share? About 82% there. The quality of ingredients is where the difference lies.

Conclusion

Blue Candy is a solid option for those intrigued by Angels' Share but unwilling to drop serious cash. It captures the essence of the original reasonably well. If you crave absolute luxury and nuanced depth, the Kilian is worth the splurge. But if you just want that boozy gourmand vibe without breaking the bank, Zara's offering is a worthy substitute, particularly for casual wear. It's a good gateway into the genre, but remember you're paying for a scaled-down experience.

Performance Reality Check

Don't expect nuclear performance. Blue Candy projects moderately for the first hour or two, creating a noticeable scent bubble. After that, it settles closer to the skin, lingering as a sweet, boozy skin scent for around 4-5 hours. Reapplication is necessary to maintain any noticeable projection throughout the day.