by Ermenegildo Zegna
Zegna Strength is a masterfully blended, rich tobacco fragrance with a dominant honeyed sweetness that brings depth and warmth. It opens with a smooth, sweet tobacco accord accented by apricot and a subtle spicy touch, quickly evolving into a complex union of honey, smoke, and agarwood. The sillage is pronounced but not overwhelming, especially in cold weather, with diffusion that lingers close to the skin after the initial burst. It feels polished and linear, with a radiant, almost luxurious presence that feels both elegant and masculine. While it strongly resembles Tom Ford’s Tobacco Vanille, its sweetness is lighter and more honeyed rather than vanillic, with a sharper woody and smoky undercurrent. The longevity is exceptional—easily lasting over 8 hours, often well into the next day—making it ideal for night wear and winter months. The composition favors smoothness and depth over sharp innovation, with a warmer, drier feel compared to other similar fragrances. Despite lacking originality, the fragrance is broadly acclaimed for its performance, elegance, and the way it balances sweet and smoky notes. It is considered niche, non-crowd-pleasing, and better suited to personal wear than offices. The price point is frequently criticized as steep for the perceived value, especially when compared to other high-performing clones. Some users note minor discrepancies in the official note list—such as missing musk—which suggests a discrepancy between marketing and actual scent profile. In summary, Strength delivers a powerful, warm, honeyed tobacco experience with excellent longevity and a refined, linear structure. It is ideal for those who enjoy bold, opulent fragrances that sit well throughout winter evenings and are not afraid of strong projection.