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JV x NJ Crimson
by John Varvatos
JV x NJ Crimson is a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet fragrance that evokes a pleasant blend of apple, coffee, and incense, with subtle leather and suede notes. It opens with a crisp hint of green apple and rum, followed by a smooth, spicy mid with saffron and amber, leading into a musky, smoky drydown. While some describe it as reminiscent of Polo Red with a fruity twist, others find it closer to a sophisticated Big Red gum or a light, fresh version of dark gourmands. The scent is comfortably wearable for day or night, with a performance that’s adrift in the middle — long enough for casual wear, but reliant on reapplication. It appeals most to those who appreciate an aromatic, spicy, vanilla-ish warmth with a hint of sophistication and built-in elegance. The bottle and presentation are praised as attractive, aligning with the brand's design aesthetic.
Pros
- +A unique, spicy, and fresh scent profile with a complex blend of coffee, apple, rum, and musky-amber notes.
- +Excellent performance for a low-price luxury fragrance, with average longevity and a soft, elegant sillage.
- +Visually appealing bottle and packaging, making it a great collectible choice for fans of John Varvatos.
Cons
- −Poor projection and longevity, with most users reporting a need to reapply after 3–4 hours.
- −Fragrance can fade quickly and sit close to the skin, with some finding it underperforming even for the price.
- −The scent is divisive — some find it overly sweet or gourmand (like candy or bubblegum), while others perceive it as faint or underwhelming.