Roja Elysium Eau Intense - Better than the Original? (Nope)

Roja Elysium Eau Intense is a men’s fragrance released in 2023. Eau Intense is a flanker of Roja Elysium, a popular blue freshie with versatility for days. I enjoyed the original and was keen to try this edition– which has been touted as an upgrade over its predecessor. However despite the Intense tagline, I don’t see this as an improvement. Let me explain.

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What does Roja Elysium Eau Intense smell like?

Firstly, let’s canvass the notes. Roja Elysium Eau Intense has a huge scent profile but only some of the accords are noticeable. I can smell grapefruit, rhubarb, juniper berries, bergamot, lime, black currant, white florals, vetiver, musk, and woods.

On the initial spray you’ll smell a blend of rhubarb and grapefruit. The rhubarb smells tart and zingy, paired with the sparkling fruity nature of grapefruit.

A juniper berry accord appears alongside. Despite being listed as a base note, it infuses an early bracing, aromatic layer tinged by spiciness.

Underneath them dances an invigorating combo of bergamot and lime that freshens things up a bit.

Further nuances arise as Eau Intense develops:

Firstly, black currant gives off a fruity, tart presence; and
White florals become evident – subtle, but evident. They offer a delicate, intoxicating richness that further deepens the blend.

Lastly, the dry down phase occurs. A mature base of musk, vetiver and woods comes forward – a familiar experience for Creed fragrance devotees. Almost all earlier accords subside or withdraw entirely.

I did say almost all – the aromatic energy continues to linger until the very end.

In summary, Elysium Eau Intense smells like a zesty aromatic fragrance. Then, it transitions through tart mid notes and rich white florals. Lastly, it settles into a subdued base of musk and woods where aromatic tendencies linger. It has a bright and approachable feel, coupled with an icy/cooling essence. The aroma is entirely consistent with the frosty bottle design.

Credit where it’s due – Elysium Eau Intense is different enough from the original to make it worth trying. Most brands are now depressingly comfortable releasing scents with minor tweaks to drive profits. This has made many people gun shy, including myself. Therefore, I applaud Roja for their work here.

Nevertheless, this isn’t an upgrade over its predecessor. It’s definitely different, but doesn’t make the original Elysium a less appealing option.

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Performance falls short

Performance is where Elysium Eau Intense falls short.

Specifically, it projects mildly from skin for the first 2 hours, before settling closer for another 3. Therefore, expect a total of 5 hours lasting power.

Remarkably, the projection and longevity is a small downgrade from its forefather – a scent itself often criticized for poor performance.

For a scent marketed as an ‘Intense’ interpretation, you’d expect something that lingers or resonates for many hours. Unfortunately, that’s far from reality.

Versatility is solid

Although more casual than the original, Eau Intense cultivates similar versatility.

It’s a superb selection for laid-back social events and coffee catch ups with friends. Additionally, it’s very safe, meaning the office and dignified ceremonies (like weddings) are also open to you.

man who wears roja elysium eau intense — This guy could wear Eau Intense

In those scenarios, I encourage you to wear it in warmer, spring and summer months.

However, this juice doesn’t ooze sexiness or seduction. Roja Enigma is an alluring masculine choice to wear during a romantic date or late-night rendezvous.