Calvin Klein – Euphoria Men Intense: Overview, Smell, Notes & More!

Today, weʼll take an extensive look at Euphoria Men Intense by Calvin Klein.

This fragrance has been in circulation since its launch in January 2008. 

Fast forward to the present, many swear by the brilliance of this aromatic essence, with some even describing it as the best amber woody aroma available for men.

Master perfumers, Carlos Benaim and Loc Dong, certainly exceeded expectations when they formulated this intense perfume.

Successor to the original Euphoria, the Intense, as its name suggests, is more modern and intense in aroma, with a slightly more elegant design.

Overview

• Brand: Calvin Klein
• Fragrance: Euphoria Men Intense
• Release: 2008
• Gender: Men
• Perfumer: Carlos Benaim and Loc Dong

Fragrance Notes

• Top Notes: Pepper, Ginger
• Heart Notes: Cedar, Sage, Vetiver, Black Basil
• Base Notes: Agarwood (Oud), Amber, Myrrh, Labdanum, Patchouli

What Does Euphoria Men Intense Smell Like?

With this scent, you can expect a truly spicy opening, owing to its head notes of spice and ginger.

If youʼre lucky, youʼll also be able to detect a hint of watermelon with minimal musk.

Then, after a brief period, the masculine scent enters its mid-phase, introducing basil, sage, amber, myrrh, and labdanum.

As a result, the fragrance starts offering a more sensual smell. 

In the dry-down period, you will detect notes of patchouli and cedarwood, giving the pleasant aroma subtle woody characteristics infused with a touch of suede.

In other words—the overpowering opening will remind you of rich soil and dark chocolate.

As time progresses, the aroma transforms into hot chocolate notes, with dark woods making their presence known in the background, without doubt. 

How Long Does Euphoria Men Intense Last For?

The “Intense” label on this fragrance can be quite misleading.

Though the opening is overwhelming in comparison to its original version, it isnʼt as long-lasting as its competitors. 

But make no mistake—the blends are still quite amazing.

Unfortunately, it bitterly disappoints in the performance department, lasting only around three hours.

After that, it becomes a skin scent.  

Research has also shown that the longevity of Intense, more or less, depends on your skin type.

It’s better than its predecessor (regular Euphoria) in terms of sillage and projection; however, as stated earlier, it isnʼt the best around. 

Oh, how I wish I could say Intense lasts long, but unfortunately it doesn’t. 

When Should You Wear It?

I think that it excels the most when worn in the fall or winter because of its warm and spicy aroma. 

It’s suitable for nights out and casual gatherings.

Surprisingly enough, the Intense is even versatile enough to be worn at the office. 

Presentation and Value For Money

As far as presentation goes, the designers at CK have certainly done a commendable job with the Intense.

The pale bronze, metal-rimmed, cognac-colored glass doesnʼt only look premium but also feels substantial to hold. 

I canʼt really find any faults in the design of this perfume.

This cologne only lets you down when it comes to performance. 

With that being said, I still enjoy its quality vibe, and the bottle is really elegant and classy.

It makes a wonderful gift, too.

All in all, the Euphoria Men Intense offers decent value for money.

Granted there are better options on the market, but Intense’s own unique aroma is its selling point.

The Bottom Line

This unique scent, though dark, is surprisingly sweet and inviting too.

With Intense in your collection, you will no longer have to solely rely on fresh/citrusy fragrances to get through the day. 

You can mix it up with something darker and muskier, without compromising on the sweetness.

Trust me—the great smell of Euphoria will earn you many compliments when you’re out and about. 

Perfumes that Smell Like Euphoria Men Intense

I found the dry down of the Euphoria Men Intense eerily similar to that of Hugoʼs Just Different.

Both perfumes have a woody, minty scent with a touch of ambery sweetness.

I also found the Intense quite similar to Dolce & Gabannaʼs The One, minus the tobacco.

Experts will also be able to find similarities between the Intense and Halston Man Amber, just with lots of extra sweetness in the Halston version.