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Crab Apple Blossom
by Clive Christian
Crab Apple Blossom opens with a bright, juicy citrus and marine burst—bergamot and sea notes dominate the initial phase, creating a refreshing, crisp atmosphere that feels both aquatic and slightly tart. The rhubarb note emerges as a sharp, zingy undertone, lending a sour, almost edible quality to the opening, which some describe as reminiscent of tiny English cooking apples or a crisp, well-balanced mojito. Over time, the fragrance evolves into a softer, warmer profile where the apple blossom and sandalwood become more noticeable, suggesting a delicate, slightly sweet florality that grounds the airy top notes. The dry down leans unisex and refined, with a subtle saltiness and driftwood warmth that lingers subtly, creating a layered, quietly luxurious feel. Performance is moderate to long, with many reporting 6-8 hours of wear, especially on dry skin; notably, some find the scent lingers surprisingly well even after being passed several times, suggesting moderate sillage. The overall impression is crisp, balanced, and structured—less adventurous or dramatic than expected from Clive Christian, but exceptionally wearable during spring and summer days. It doesn’t fully emulate the coconut-rich elegance of Creed Virgin Island Water but rather aligns more closely with a refined, sandalwood-tinged aquatic freshness with a sweet-sour edge.
Pros
- +Highly wearable during spring and summer, especially during the daytime.
- +Strong performance with moderate to long-lasting wear across most skin types.
- +Refined and well-blended accord integrates citrus, marine, fruit, floral, and woody notes smoothly.
Cons
- −The scent can feel overly linear and sharp, particularly due to the rhubarb note, which some find underdeveloped or unpleasantly harsh.
- −The salt and citrus focus may make it feel thin or lacking depth on some skin types.
- −Some users perceive it as lacking the complexity or character of other Clive Christian icons, despite its high-quality ingredients.