The first encounter with Intense By Mercedes Benz is…intense, to say the least. It’s the kind of fragrance that immediately floods your mind with a thousand thoughts, ranging from disbelief to a strange, compelling intrigue. This isn’t just another scent; it’s an olfactory experience that stands apart, completely unlike anything conventionally familiar. My initial reaction? A genuine sensory shock, and my nose is still processing it.
However, this initial jolt quickly transitions into something far more nuanced. The assertive opening of this Mercedes-Benz fragrance unfolds into a surprisingly pleasing, albeit unconventional, composition. Imagine a “cooling water” effect, delivering a crisp, slightly detached coolness. Upon this cool foundation emerges a radiant, soft violet note, creating an intriguing duality.
While the bergamot and tangerine are listed, their presence is fleeting, noticeable only in the very initial moments. They quickly recede, allowing the heart of the fragrance to take center stage. This isn’t a flaw; in fact, it allows Intense by Mercedes Benz to develop its unique character within the first few hours. The fragrance oscillates between the delicate sweetness of violet and a more austere, ozonic, cool-spicy wood and patchouli base. This interplay of contrasting elements is what defines the “intense” and somewhat ambivalent nature of this scent.
Mercedes Benz hasn’t shied away from synthetic notes in Intense. However, they are skillfully integrated, functioning more as a deliberate design element than a jarring distraction. After about four hours, the individual notes begin to meld seamlessly. Two hours later, the initial coolness subtly gains prominence over the violet, creating a smoother, more unified dry down. Longevity is commendable, lasting 7-8 hours with a noticeable sillage, ensuring your presence is felt.
In conclusion, Intense by Mercedes Benz is an unusual yet undeniably attractive fragrance. It’s like a supercooled chrome violet – aloof, futuristic, and somewhat space-age. Before committing to a full bottle, sampling is highly recommended. This fragrance feels tailored for those who appreciate the unconventional, perhaps those drawn to cyberpunk aesthetics or the ambiance of a neon-lit bar. This was certainly my initial impression.
Yet, repeated wearings reveal a different facet. The initial synthetic sharpness softens, and the violet truly shines through, becoming the star. Its delicate sweetness beautifully counterbalances the cedar’s peppery severity, creating a surprisingly harmonious and well-rounded fragrance experience.
Ultimately, Intense by Mercedes Benz is a scent that requires a bit of acclimatization, but ultimately evolves into a captivating and alluring “nose biter”— a fragrance that will keep you, and those around you, intrigued.
