“You don’t have to be born in Roma to feel like a Roman”, says Pierpaolo Piccioli, Creative Director of Maison Valentino. Clearly, the Born in Roma collection is a nod to the brand’s Italian heritage.
From the aromatic Born in Roma Coral Fantasy to the mysterious Born in Roma Intense, the best Valentino fragrances for men are charismatic and confident.
My research visit took me to the Harrods in London, where I tried & tested the men’s Valentino fragrance collection for myself.
Best Valentino Fragrances For Men
Aromatic, rich and refined, the best Valentino fragrances for men promise to intrigue, allure and turn heads. Here are 6 to discover.
1. Born In Roma Rendez-Vous Rockstud Noir Eau De Toilette
Review
This 2023 fragrance, a bold statement from Valentino, is a modern twist on traditional elegance with the contemporary feel of Prada Luna Rosa.
It opens with the vibrant freshness of Italian bergamot and a crisp hint of green apple that feels fresh and confident.
A blast of aromatic sage is a classy choice that bridges the fresh opening with the ambergris base, with its slightly oceanic, earthy finish.
Top Notes:
Italian Bergamot, Green Apple
Mid Notes:
Sage
Base Notes:
Ambergris
Seasons & Longevity
Perfect for autumn, winter and spring, it has a sophisticated air that makes it ideal for daytime wear and will last 5+ hours with ease.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Sophisticated scent ideal for casual or formal events |
| Cons | The salty ambergris note is not for everyone |
2. Born In Roma Uomo Coral Fantasy Eau De Toilette
Review
Aromatic, spicy and smokey, Coral Fantasy is an aromatic journey, capturing the essence of Rome’s vibrant, passionate spirit.
An irresistible blast of red apple is supported by bergamot and cardamom, setting a playful yet refined tone.
Lavender is the heaviest in the heart, with a slightly herbaceous tone. Finally, tobacco, vetiver and patchouli ensure a warm, earthy finish.
Top Notes:
Red Apple, Bergamot, Cardamom
Mid Notes:
Lavender, Clary Sage, Bourbon Geranium
Base Notes:
Vetiver, Tobacco, Patchouli
Seasons & Longevity
It’s a versatile fragrance for any season, with a smokiness leaning towards formal evenings. Lasts 6+ hours, projecting well without being intrusive.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Headturing scent that will draw in the compliments |
| Cons | More of a formal evening scent only in my opinion |
3. Born In Roma Yellow Dream For Him Eau De Toilette
Review
Yellow Dream For Him is a vibrant, youthful fragrance that manages to be sweet, spicy and fresh all at once.
A refreshing burst of Italian mandarin and pineapple introduces a sweet and citrusy start, with gingerbread adding a unique, spicy twist.
Upon dry-down, the base is vanilla-heavy with a touch of cedarwood that provides a smooth, crowd-pleasing finish.
Top Notes:
Italian Mandarin, Pineapple
Mid Notes:
Gingerbread
Base Notes:
Madagascan Vanilla, Cedarwood
Seasons & Longevity
An any-season scent, it’s an excellent choice for day-to-day wear or special occasions that call for a touch of freshness. Expect 5+ hours of wear.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Fresh and energetic, great for daywear |
| Cons | It is quite vanilla-heavy |
4. Born In Roma For Him Eau De Toilette
Review
Ah, the Valentino classic, Born in Roma, is a woody/mineral fragrance tailored for the modern man (it has an Invictus vibe to my nose).
Fragrant violet leaf is quickly followed by aromatic sage and smoked vetiver in the woody heart.
However, things get interesting, as the heart note of salt gives it a distinct, clean mineral personality, followed by a welcome kick of ginger.
Top Notes:
Violet Leaf
Mid Notes:
Clary Sage, Vetiver
Base Notes:
Mineral Salt, Warm Woods, Ginger
Seasons & Longevity
A versatile scent, perfect for any season, it’s especially fitting for evenings out or special occasions and will last you 6+ hours.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Classic, timeless scent suitable for any occasion |
| Cons | Does smell like quite a few other fragrances |
5. Valentino Uomo Eau De Toilette
Review
Said to be inspired by Rome’s architecture, Valentino Uomo oozes refined luxury; It’s a warm and woody scent that encapsulates effortless style.
This scent journey begins with fragrant iris, working its powdery magic before a tidal wave of smooth cedarwood emerges in the heart.
Spiced vanilla and vetiver come together in the base, creating a warm, creamy, nutty finish with a touch of lingering rich chocolate.
Top Notes:
Iris
Mid Notes:
Cedarwood
Base Notes:
Vanilla, Vetiver
Seasons & Longevity
I’d say that this fragrance is a quintessential autumn and winter choice, leaning towards nighttime elegance. Lasts 7+ hours with a commanding aura.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Long-lasting with a subtly commanding aura |
| Cons | The powdery iris note might not suit all noses |
6. Born In Roma Intense Eau De Parfum
Review
Born In Roma Intense is a seductive lavender and vanilla combo that embodies boldness and intensity, a scent that’s as captivating as the city it’s named after.
A lively blast of vanilla bourbon offers a sweet & spicy introduction, with bright lavender providing an intriguing, aromatic middle.
Stick around for the base of smoked vetiver, which adds a deep, slightly smoky finish, lending the fragrance a mysterious edge that I couldn’t stop sniffing.
Top Notes:
Mandarin, Ginger, Bergamot
Mid Notes:
Nutmeg, Salty Accord, Lavender
Base Notes:
Smoked Vetiver
Seasons & Longevity
I’m going to place this in the any-season category. With 6+ hours of longevity and strong projection, Born In Roma Intense is a fragrance that stays with you.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Strong projection, making a memorable impression |
| Cons | Intensity may be overpowering for some, especially in warmer weather |
Andrew’s Top Pick
Valentino Born in Roma Coral Fantasy
Valentino Born in Roma Coral Fantasy is my top pick because its refined blend is fruity, aromatic and spicy with a seductive touch of smoke that oozes class.
Conclusion
Valentino offers a diverse collection of masculine scents. The best Valentino fragrances for men express elegance, boldness, and the eternal charm of Rome.
Fragrance, after all, is a way to communicate without words. So, whether you’re stepping out for a casual day or preparing for a significant evening, Valentino has a scent that will fit you like a glove.
Also read: 5 Best Acqua di Gio Fragrances By Giorgio Armani
Further Reading
Below are some additional articles from Viora London’s blog. We write articles on a number of interesting lifestyle topics such as fragrance, beauty, luxury accessories and more.
