Teahupoo

Olfactory Experience

Teahupoo opens with a blast of grapefruit and that familiar aquatic accord. It's aiming squarely for Invictus Aqua 2016, and it gets surprisingly close. The mandarin is dialed back, giving it a sharper initial impression than the original. The heart introduces a noticeable violet leaf note absent in the OG, making it slightly greener. The drydown features a somewhat scratchy ambergris substitute. It's recognizable, but lacks the depth and smoothness of a higher-quality ambergris note. I'd say it mimics the Aqua DNA about 84%.

Performance Reality Check

This isn't a powerhouse. Expect around 4-5 hours of moderate projection before it sits close to the skin. After 6 hours, it's practically a skin scent. It projects decently for the first hour, leaving a pleasant bubble around you. It's acceptable but don't expect all-day performance. It's not a perfect match, and you can definitely smell the cost-cutting ingredients. However, it's a worthwhile option if you enjoy that fresh, aquatic vibe. If you're on a tight budget and want a casual summer scent, grab this. If you're a serious fragrance enthusiast craving the genuine article, save your money for the real deal.