Gravitas Essentia

Gravitas Essentia is the sequel to Gravitas Pour Homme, the first release from Naughton and Wilson. English perfumer John Stephen kept the strident, refined core of the original and added freshness, so it reads as a lighter, greener aromatic fougere at 20 percent concentration. The opening is lavender with mint, bergamot and mandarin, a cool, tingly start that lifts the citrus. Cardamom, bay leaf, coriander and artemisia make a green, slightly camphorous heart, and the base settles on vanilla, patchouli, oakmoss and ambergris. Wearers find less spice and less vanilla than the original, a smooth and almost creamy finish, and a classic barbershop feel. Performance is moderate. Many wearers report good wear and arm's-length projection, while a few find it light or short-lived on their skin. It leads in autumn and spring, works through summer and winter, and is most at home in daytime and the office, with evenings a good second. It is a masculine scent on the votes. The brand sells a 100 ml bottle at 125 pounds, and the house also makes a 30 ml travel edition. It suits anyone who likes a classic fougere with a minty, herbal lift, and who wants the Gravitas idea in a version that wears more easily in warmer, brighter weather. Anyone who loved the original's spice and sweetness may find this one fresher, with less spice and vanilla.