Lime & Mandarin

Jo Malone London's Lime Basil & Mandarin is arguably the most recognisable British cologne of the modern era, built on a classical citrus-aromatic structure, and this version follows that same path: lime, mandarin and bergamot open sharp and zesty, basil and thyme carry the peppery aromatic heart, and patchouli with vetiver settle the base. The opening does the job that made the original iconic, that distinctive peppery basil edge sitting right on top of the citrus. Where the two part ways is longevity and depth. Jo Malone's cologne concentration is famously light already, but its patchouli-vetiver base still holds a quiet, grounded presence for a few hours; this version thins out faster, with the basil-citrus character fading to almost nothing well before the original would. Projection is fresh and lively at first spray, then drops quickly. As an inexpensive way to try the lime-basil-mandarin idea for the office or a casual day, it captures the character convincingly for an hour or two, just don't expect it to last through an afternoon.