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Y Eau de Parfum Intense
by Yves Saint Laurent
YSL Y Eau de Parfum Intense reimagines the iconic Y EDP by stripping away the synthetic apple note and replacing it with a more mature, aromatic profile. The result is a clean, fresh, and subtly sweet fragrance centered around bergamot, ginger, juniper berries, lavender, and sage, leading into a dry down of cedar, patchouli, and vetiver. It achieves a refined, gentlemanly elegance—less loud and obtrusive than its predecessor, making it suitable for both professional environments and evening occasions. The scent unfolds with a fresh, almost soapy vibrancy initially, evolving into a more woody and aromatic base that feels subdued yet wearable. Performance is decent—lasting moderately on skin and longer on clothing—though some find it less robust than the original Y EDP. While some compare it favorably to Bleu de Chanel, Acqua di Gio EDP, or Dior Sauvage Elixir, others perceive it as a safe, familiar blue fragrance that leans into ‘shower gel chic’ without the signature boldness. It’s particularly appreciated by those who found the original Y EDP too sweet or cloying, offering a more balanced, mature alternative. However, its pricing is frequently criticized as unjustified, especially given its perceived redundancy within the line.
Pros
- +Fresh, aromatic opening with bergamot, ginger, and juniper berries offers a modern, clean appeal.
- +Removes the synthetic apple note, making it more mature and wearable in professional settings.
- +Longevity is moderate to good, especially on clothing, and it performs reliably without being overwhelming.
- +Appeals to fans of Y EDP who found the original too sweet or loud, offering a refined alternative.
- +Well-received by those seeking a polished, versatile blue fragrance with a gender-neutral appeal.
Cons
- −Performance and projection are inconsistent—some find it weaker than the original EDP.
- −Price is frequently considered high for what is offered, especially when compared to similarly styled fragrances.
- −Sometimes seen as redundant or too similar to other Y line versions, particularly Le Parfum or EDP.
- −Lacks the distinctive intensity implied by the name, with some calling it overly subdued or understated.