Sunshine Man by Amouage

Sunshine Man promises summer, but it’s a deception. Amouage plays the opposite card: orange and juniper clash against a rough base, the hardest I’ve tried in years. Lavender and brandy keep it masculine and persistent, very different from what you’d imagine. Rosemary is there, though it doesn’t reach the majesty of Sable, and the blend doesn’t suit me; the orange becomes viscous and dense while dry acid dominates and the sweetness fades into the background. I don’t understand this Amouage, and honestly, it’s not for me.

This perfume confuses and blocks me. At first, it smells like Bolognese sauce with mushrooms, but when I inhale deeply, that culinary cloud disappears and something liquorish, creamy, with lavender and soft vanilla emerges. My olfactory associations leave me lost, but over time my senses sort themselves out. It’s good, potent, with that brandy, tonka bean, lavender, and vanilla side that gives it a sunscreen vibe. Deep aroma, uncommon, with excellent trail and longevity. I see it as an all-rounder, especially in heat or for evening beach walks. Scent: 8/10, Trail: 9/10, Longevity: 9/10, Projection: 9/10.

The opening is loaded with lavender and liquor; rosemary adds a rough touch. As it dries down, vanilla and tonka grow while the lavender calms, leaving a soapy sensation. There’s a powdery base with herbal nuances. Cedar and lavender push it to the masculine side; without them, it could be feminine. Performance and longevity are good, presence is acceptable. I see it for fresh climates, maybe temperate, but avoid it in excessive heat. It stands apart from the typical oriental Amouage, without its incense and opulence. Leaving the incense and ‘westernizing’ the brand has brought criticism; Sunshine is an example. I like it, though it’s not my favorite; I prefer their opulent incense-filled perfumes, the unusual ones. The scent is pleasant, high quality, and has good performance. You can’t ask for more, except if it were cheaper.