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John Varvatos Cologne
Item #511015
$57.79
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Item #544434
$9.99
Item #467088
$24.55
Item #415740
$39.81
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About John Varvatos
John Varvatos cologne arrived in 2006 as the designer's inaugural fragrance, and it made an immediate impression. This isn't some safe, middle-of-the-road scent designed to appeal to everyone. It's bold without being theatrical. The inspiration came from Varvatos himself—a rock-and-roll sensibility mixed with raw masculinity. It's the kind of John Varvatos cologne that smells like confidence, the way you imagine a well-worn leather jacket should smell if it could be bottled. Over nearly two decades, it's remained a fixture in men's fragrance because it actually delivers on its promise.
Fragrance Family:
Amber, Aromatic
Scent Type:
Warm, spicy, woody, slightly sweet, with citrus brightness
Notes:
John Varvatos cologne opens with energetic top notes of bergamot and orange, giving it an immediate lift before settling into something richer. The heart is where things get interesting: cardamom, cloves, and jasmine create this warm spice that never feels predictable. There's an almost leather-like quality to it, which ties back to Varvatos's design aesthetic. The base? That's the main event. Sandalwood, vetiver, amber, and tobacco leaf build a foundation that's woody and substantial without turning smoky or overwhelming. It lasts.
Suggested Use
Apply John Varvatos cologne to pulse points—neck, wrists, and behind the ears—right after showering while your skin is still slightly warm. The heat helps the fragrance develop more fully. A couple of sprays is plenty; this cologne has good presence, so there's no need to overdo it. It performs well throughout the day and into the evening, making it versatile enough for both office settings and casual outings.
FAQ for John Varvatos
What does John Varvatos cologne smell like?
John Varvatos cologne delivers a rich, masculine, and artisanal character. It opens with a burst of fresh citrus and earthy tobacco leaf before settling into a warm, sensuous blend of suede and aged woods. The overall impression is rugged yet refined — like a well-worn leather jacket paired with a crisp white shirt.
What kind of scent is John Varvatos cologne?
John Varvatos cologne is a men's fragrance in the oriental woody fragrance family. It is offered as an Eau de Toilette (EDT), making it a versatile, wearable concentration suitable for everyday use as well as special occasions. Its complex layering of earthy, spicy, and woody accords gives it a distinctly creative and artisanal identity.
What are the notes in John Varvatos cologne?
Top Notes: Italian bergamot, cardamom, tobacco leaf. Heart Notes: suede, black basil, roasted tonka bean. Base Notes: aged oak, patchouli, sandalwood, vetiver. These carefully curated notes work together to create a fragrance that transitions seamlessly from a fresh opening to a deep, warm finish.
What season is John Varvatos cologne best for?
John Varvatos cologne is best suited for the cooler months of Fall and Winter. Its warm, woody, and earthy character comes alive in crisp temperatures, making it an ideal companion for autumn evenings and winter occasions. However, its fresh top notes also allow it to be worn comfortably in mild spring weather.
Is John Varvatos cologne suitable for all occasions?
John Varvatos cologne is highly versatile and well-suited for a wide range of occasions. Its sophisticated warmth makes it an excellent choice for evening events, date nights, and formal gatherings. At the same time, its earthy and balanced character keeps it grounded enough for casual everyday wear or professional settings.
Can John Varvatos cologne be worn by both men and women?
John Varvatos cologne is marketed as a men's fragrance, but its artistic blend of suede, wood, and spice can appeal to anyone who appreciates warm, complex scents. Those who enjoy rich, unisex-leaning oriental fragrances may find it equally captivating regardless of gender.
Where should John Varvatos cologne be applied?
For best results, apply John Varvatos cologne to pulse points such as the sides of the neck, inner wrists, and behind the ears. These areas generate natural body heat, which helps diffuse the fragrance evenly throughout the day and enhances the development of each scent layer.
How long does John Varvatos cologne last?
As an Eau de Toilette, John Varvatos cologne typically lasts between 4 to 6 hours on the skin. Longevity may vary depending on skin type, body heat, and environmental conditions. Those with drier skin may find the scent fades more quickly and can benefit from applying an unscented moisturizer beforehand to help the fragrance last longer.
Other Fragrances by John Varvatos
| Attribute Name | Attribute Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | John Varvatos |
| Fragrance Family | Earthy Greens |
| Fragrance Name | John Varvatos |
| Fragrance Classification | Cologne, After Shave, Gift Set, Deodorant, Mini, Sample |
| Volume | Available in 1 ml, 7 ml, 8 ml, 75 ml, 77 ml, 125 ml and 200 ml |
| Top Notes | Tamarind leaves, Herbs, Date, Medjool date |
| Heart Notes | Coriander seeds, Clary sage, Thyme |
| Base Notes | Leather, Oud (Oudh, Agar or Aloeswood), Amber, Auramber accord, Balsam, Vanilla |
| Gender | Men |
| Year Of Launch | 2004 |
92%
Jet Black Classic
Very nice, but not long lasting
classic fragrance
use it early and it still hangs on till end of day. Im surrounded by women all day who compliment my fragrance. Its not a fragrance you smell everyday so it stands out
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Love John Varvatos
It's a great smell but dissipates. If didn't need reapplied after 4 hourse i would say it's perfect
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Cheap imitation full of alcohol
Won't buy from anything again
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend to a friend.
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I will continue to order from fragranxeX.
Love John Varvatos cologne collection! Trying to collect all of them.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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yes
A gentleman's cologne good for special occasions.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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yes
great cologne
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Why Did I Wait So Long
This is a great scent that reminds me of a classic even though it hasn't been around long enough to qualify as one. It is earthy and manly and not one of those typical light and airy EDTs that smells like a male version of a female scent. It has a certain darkness about it that I tend to gravitate toward. It should be in a serious collector's arsenal.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Would definitely buy again.
Great product!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Smells good for about 20 mins then dissappears.
Very weak product
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend to a friend.
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Amazing herbal
I was really surprised by this fragrance it is like David off cool water but more smooth and refined my only problem with it is that it doesn't last very long like 4-6 hours
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Smells wonderful for an hour
Great smelling clean and fresh fragrance. Doe not last long at all
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend to a friend.
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Smell good but does not last. Old batch maybe.
Smell good but does not last. Old batch maybe.
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend to a friend.
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Blind buy!
This fragrant has a manly scent and high on the compliment list, It has a fresh scent which has an appealling fragrance, howeve it is not a long lasting scent, maybe for a few hours, 3 to 4 hours at the most. Overall, it's a pleasant fragrance with a short fragrance time.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Very pleasant scent I would buy again
Very pleasant scent would buy again
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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I really like the product
It was just a little Weak on the fragrance hole Other than that I like it
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Likely
Spray pump does not work at all. Very frustrating.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Coca-Cola Cologne
My first Varvatos. This is fragranced Coca-Cola. I mean that in a positive way though. It's fairly interesting. I'm presuming it has everything to do with the tamarind and perhaps even the caramel. Cool fragrance although I hope it lasted longer. Also, the dry down is almost quite literally just spilled Coca-Cola. Lel. I definitely recommend everyone to try this one out to see what everyone's take is. It's cheap anyway.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Would buy again
Not over powering
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Bought 10 bottles
I really love this one and Dark Rebel. When I heard that the brand filed for bankruptcy and this may no longer be available, I bought 10 bottles of each. Great for everyday and Dark Rebel at night.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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This is THE original!
The true original. Better than the flankers. A bit of leather and herbs but exceptional in the Indian date fruit and West Indian tamarind tree. A fresh combination which is not overpowering, and excellent for everyday wear
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Nice smell
Great cologne
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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I would buy this again
Will always have a bottle in my collection.Not bad. I think this is for the older gentleman. It is not youthful at all and I would personally have a hard time imagining someone in their twenties wearing this. It smells of soft brown leather and dates, it is not "fruity" but the smell of the dates adds to the smell of the leather. I get small hints of the other notes in the background, mainly leather and dates.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Hands down, favourite cologne
This has been my signature scent for years. I have been paying DOUBLE at Hudson's Bay. So thankful for this site!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Great value
one of my favorites...highly recommend
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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I love it
blind purchased just based on review and it spot my liking. doesn't hold long but happy to reapply it mid day.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Good scent but not long lasting
Smells good the scent doesn't last although I'll spray on my shirt to extend the life of the scent but at most I get about 4 hours of longevity and not much projection.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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I thought I was getting regular one I received a tester
As all JV scents they smell amazing but they just don't last also I received a tester which threw me off but overall great smell very sexyyyyy seductive Night out I guess just over spray lol
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Very good pricing and fast service...
Good for evening out
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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I would buy again and again.
Use all the time....really get compliments ....especially from ladies in elevator or cafeteria...they tell me the love scent
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Not a scam it's the real thing
This product is more of a evening smell. It has a masculine scent that makes a man stand out.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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3rd time i buy this cologne smells unique and perfect
Great for date night unique smell and very manly 💪🏽
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Great Men's Fragrance
This is my signature cologne I love the way it smells, draws frequent compliments
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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a very nice fresh fragrance
Great every day use.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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My kind of scent
Signature scent worthy. It's not a loud powerhouse, it's a bit sweet but unique and very smoothly blended in my opinion. Quite linear as well. I get about 5 hours out of it and just love the smell.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Gentlemen in a leather jacket
Amazing fragrance from amazing house (hopefully they'll recover from Covid19 crisis) It sounds it's best on skin, on clothes it doesn't reach full potential, not a lot of projection (could be cons an pros for different people)
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Amazing service brilliant prices, always delivered perfectly
Brilliant
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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not bad at this price.
for this price, a very decent fragrance. Suitable for the cold season. Very warm tones. A real masculine fragrance. But not luxury. Classic, as well as the brand itself, which has already gone down in history. Goodbye John Varvatos!
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend to a friend.
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I would definitely buy this again for my husband.
This has become my husband go to signature sent . I love it on him and he loves to wear it .yes a score.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Excellent Fragrance
I spray it on every morning. I love the essence as it drifts upward for my enjoyment. I have had many compliments but I tell people that I use it for myself. It is subtle so somebody needs to be fairly close to notice v
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Always good
Always my go to!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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When it's black, it's ELEGANT!
The kind of smell suitable for any occasion and anytime!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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It's Not Terrible
Many do like this one a lot and it's honestly not bad, but just doesn't really jump out. All notes are well balanced (and not overly strong - which I like), but the sweetness is slightly "off" in some way. Not bashing it and I think it's worth a try, but just not a keeper for me. Maybe it will be for you.
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend to a friend.
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Yes
It's over all my favorite scent I own It's dark and mysterious but also pleasant it gives you a rock n roll vibe!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Thought I made a mistake, but was very happy to be wrong!
I smelled this one in store and thought it was great, so I ordered it online (NOT worth retail price). While I was waiting for my package to arrive I tried it again and found I didn't like it as much as I thought I had. I immediately thought I had made a mistake, but c'est la vie, it's a VERY affordable fragrance at discounters. When it arrived, I immediately tried it on to see which part of me was right. I am very happy to say my initial reaction was correct. I really, really like this scent. It's a very unique dark, spicy, woody, and (more importantly) leathery scent. I really enjoy leather and dark fragrances. It opens a little weak, but as it dries down on your skin you're treated to a very fun and interesting scent. I was very surprised at the quality of the scent at the price point. I can't wait to try more John Varvatos fragrances! Two big downsides though, it doesn't last long on my skin (maybe 4-5 hours), and the performance is mild. These two issues seem to be very common with JV fragrances, but I for the money I don't mind reapplying halfway through the day. But, because it's not overpowering I can see this fragrance being used in every day situations (depending on your style of course). Signature scent? Possibly? Wouldn't wear it during the warmer seasons as it's too dark for that. Unless you want to! Who cares, it's what you like.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Smells good
I've had quite a bit of John varvatos colonges smells clean and strong you can even wear it on special occasions
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Really good !!
Smell great !!!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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GREAT PRODUCT
Great overall cologne..Better for the colder winter months and cooler summer evenings.But it can be used anytime you like.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Always good
This is my everyday go to.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Yes
Had a tester tube of this a while back loved the smell and finally bought buying me a bottle of it! there is no other feeling like putting on my US Wings Leather jacket and spraying this cologne on then putting on my Irish setter chukkas and throwing on my pair of American AO aviator pilot sunglasses!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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Great small for the well dressed man
It helps to compliment the outfit.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend.
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