by John Varvatos
John Varvatos XX is a warm, fruity-spicy fragrance with a prominent coffee and woody foundation, offering a bright yet smooth profile that leans toward the gourmand and masculine. The opening features crisp black currant and red apple with cardamom, giving it a slightly sweet and tart freshness that evolves into a richer, more nuanced heart dominated by coffee, sandalwood, and warm spices. The drydown settles into a smoky, woody base with subtle floral and powdery notes, creating a scent that feels both modern and familiar—reminiscent of Polo Red, YSL La Nuit de L’Homme, and D&G The One, though with a more pronounced coffee and cedar presence. It performs fairly well, with moderate sillage and longevity that extends beyond the typical 6 hours for many users, especially when applied to clothing. It's best suited for autumn and winter wear or cool evenings, and its appeal lies in its balanced, approachable character that suits a wide range of masculine tastes. While not groundbreaking or unique, it’s consistently praised for its easy wearability and pleasant, if not memorable, scent profile. Many note it as an underrated, versatile option worth trying, particularly at discounted prices.