Sauvage Elixir

Dior Sauvage Elixir built its reputation on a punchy nutmeg-cinnamon-cardamom opening that settles into a boozy licorice and sandalwood base with genuinely all-day tenacity - reviewers regularly clock 10-12 hours off a couple of sprays. Clean Shaven's inspired version nails the loud, spicy first impression: there's real cinnamon and grapefruit bite up top, and the lavender heart reads true to the original. Where it departs is staying power. The licorice and vetiver base that gives the real Elixir its smoky, addictive trail fades to a faint warmth within a few hours rather than clinging to skin and clothing overnight. At this price it's a fair once-over of the scent's opening character, but treat it as a few hours of the Elixir's swagger rather than an all-night substitute - reapplication after the afternoon is worth planning for if you want the effect to last into the evening.