I got this on a whim, having read zero reviews prior to buying. My first unbiased thought was “this is nearly indistinguishable from the current formulation of Creed Aventus.” I actually put Aventus on one wrist and Morning Chess on the other, and I think the average nose couldn’t tell the difference.

All that being said, the same virtues of Aventus apply to Morning Chess. Moderate projection, moderate staying power, safe as a blind buy, summer frag, crowd pleaser, etc. I realize comparisons rob the actual perfume of its uniqueness, but honestly if you told me this was a clone I’d believe you. So if you want Aventus at like 1/2 the price (and I certainly do), here it is.

This is my most-used fragrance, without contest. Dare I say, my signature scent. Fresh. Green. Bright. But with depth as it dries. On my skin I do get a bit of leather—a soft and worn in leather with a softer scent rather than fresh, new leather. Probably designed to be a bit more “traditionally masculine” in its composition, but I love it on myself as a female. And my husband loves it on me. I will always, always have this in my collection and continue to repurchase.