American Dream

American Dream is a bright, herbal citrus from Gravel, composed by Michael Knudson and released in 2019. Citrus is the first word people use for it; about two thirds also call it green, woody and aromatic, and a third find it gourmand or floral.

The top is a classic cologne opening given a twist: bergamot, orange and lemon bring sparkle, while basil adds a green, peppery herb note that keeps it from feeling sweet. The heart is where the scent becomes interesting, as lavender and petitgrain add a clean aromatic quality, jasmine softens it with a hint of flowers, and tonka bean brings a warm, almond-like sweetness. The base of vetiver, patchouli and moss turns it drier and earthier, so the drydown is woody and slightly damp rather than sugary.

It is worn by anyone. The character suits spring and summer days, work or weekends, and someone who likes a fresh scent with a bit of substance beneath it.

American Dream — unisex fragrance by Gravel (released 2019). Top notes: Lemon, Bergamot, Basil, Orange. Heart notes: Petitgrain, Lavender, Jasmine, Tonka Bean. Base notes: Moss, Vetiver, Patchouli. — Parfica open fragrance database