Reflection 45.
It is a mature and sophisticated fragrance for a man.
Amouage Reflection 45 was released in 2021. It is based on resins, aromatics, and wood. It lasts ten to twelve hours on the skin with moderate projection. In this review, I will describe its smell and performance and if it’s worth it.
Table of Contents
What Does Amouage Reflection 45
The opening starts with a blast of strong aromatic notes. There are wafts of herbal spice, pepper, and jasmine with a white floral aroma. In the background is a powdery iris and lavender combination. The first ten to fifteen minutes are sharp but clean and classy.
The sharpness from the opening fades into the mid. A floral and citric neroli fills its void. It partially gives the florals a citric zingyness and aromatics. It also mixes with the jasmine, amplifying the clean white floral nature.
Honestly, up to this point, Reflection 45 smells like expensive soap/shaving cream.
The dry down is simple. A slightly sweet and woody tonka bean is paired with deeper and warmer resins while the clean white florals linger. This is what you’ll smell for the rest of the wear.
Amouage Reflection 45 notes:
TOP NOTES
- Lavender
- Benzoin
- Pink Pepper
- Juniper Berries
- Clary Sage
- Cardamom
MID NOTES
- Iris
- Jasmine
- Neroli
- Tonka Bean
- Vanilla
- Angelica
BASE NOTES
- Olibanum
- Myrrh
- Sandalwood
- Opoponax
- Cedar
- Patchouli
- Vetiver
Performance
Like a true Amouage scent, the performance is outstanding. Reflection 45 lasts 10 – 12 hours on the skin with moderate projection. The first three hours, it pushes out an arm’s length before receding and maintaining a one to two-foot ambiance for the rest of the wear.
The sillage is as good. The more you move around, the better this smells and projects. This performance is with three sprays. As for seasons and occasions, it is all. This could be considered a barbershop cologne because of its versatility and scent profile.
The mass appeal and likability are average. The opening is slightly aggressive, the mid is wearable, and the base is alright. Those nearby will enjoy your aroma but not what you’d wear to get showered with compliments.
Lastly, the uniqueness is above average. The aromatics and florals are nothing ground-breaking, but the blend and the addition of the resinous base are different than the majority of similar fragrances.
Final Words
The most similar fragrance is the original Amouage Reflection. If you want to learn more, discover it here.
The final burning question is, is Amouage Reflection 45 worth it? No. It is similar to the original but at a much higher price point. The original Reflection is already such a great fragrance that little can be done to improve it.
If you try Amouage Reflection 45, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.