Acqua Wood
Collistar (2015)

When we think of fragrances that truly embody the classic pencil-shavings vibe, a bunch of more famous reference points usually come to mind, namely scents like Gucci Pour Homme I (2003), Carbone de Balmain (2010), Montana Graphite (2011), Comme des Garçons 2 Man (2004) etc. Collistar Aqua Wood clearly belongs to this same olfactory territory. What sets it apart, however, is that for a good portion of its relatively short evolution it presents a more watery, citrus-aromatic texture, driven by a brighter presence of citrus, lavender, fluid spices and fresh aromatic elements that give the composition a distinctly more “aqueous” and luminous feel. Aqua Wood (released in 2023, the nose behind the talented Daphne Bugey) sits in the woody aromatic fragrance family. The opening and early heart feel fresh, kind of uplifting (but in a chiaro-scuro mode) and fluid, already hinting at a kind of liquid amber glow likely supported by modern synthetic molecules such as ambroxan-type materials, before the scent gradually slides toward a less compelling drydown dominated by a dry “pencil” effect, mainly produced by the cedarwood/guaiac wood pairing. What exactly does this fragrance smell like? To my admittedly profane nose, it comes across as an idealized blend of several well-known references. It vaguely recalls Penhaligon’s Juniper Sling (2011) with its sparkling, gin-like aromatic impression, especially in the first phase of Aqua Wood’s evolution, where the profile feels fresher, brighter and more fluidy-aromatic. In the drydown, it brings to mind Gucci Pour Homme I (2003), though in a lighter, less rich and less complex form. There is also a touch of something reminiscent of the beautiful, more resinous and refined 7 de Loewe (2010). Finally, it loosely echoes some of the “mountain-style” woody fragrances by Dsquared2, such as He Wood (2007) and Rocky Mountain Wood (2009), both known for their crisp, outdoorsy cedar-driven character. In the final drydown, the scent settles into a distinctly dry woody “pencil-shavings” accord, mainly driven by cedarwood and guaiac wood. It recalls the lighter side of fragrances like Gucci Pour Homme I, but in a simpler, less layered way. The overall impression is clean, dry, assertive and slightly synthetic-ambery, with a smooth but somewhat linear woody trail. It feels definitely modern and tidy rather than deep or enveloping. Performances on my skin are mediocre with a moderate projection at best and a rather short-to-average longevity, with the scent sitting close to the skin fairly quickly.

I picked this fragrance up in Sicily while on vacation and absolutely love it! Goes to show that you never know what you may find at the profumerias overseas. Gloriously bright and woody fragrance from the quality cosmetic house of Collistar. More of a skin scent than anything else .. but I've had a few compliments already. In the same realm of Lalique's incredible Encre Noir but not nearly as dark and earthy. Imagine an Encre Noir Light -- and you have Acqua Wood.

While I was at it I also picked up the equally amazing Acqua Attiva. I only wish they had an 'intenso' version of these fine fragrances.

Ciao!

a widely appealing woody spicy scent, both sensual and fresh, tempered by a deep woody note. to my nose this an impeccably blended scent, a crisp combination of florals & citrus notes sparkle atop the ambroxan soaked woody accord. i love creed's royal oud and would put this in the same ballpark, only fresher and less potent. but it's low priced so spray liberally, the sillage is there and i've already had compliments, after only a few wears.

it's juicy & wet as the name would suggest, a versatile scent with a warming edge that it makes it perfect in the cooler weather. crucially it isn't too 'sexy, it's right in the fresh zone and suitable for all occasions. the way the woody note comes across is divine, i'll be wearing this juice for a long time!