Have you noticed a lack of small after-shave and cologne brands in most department stores? It’s usually brands like Calvin Klein and Dior that are at the forefront. Don’t get me wrong, most of them smell great, but they are also might expensive. However, there is a whole new world of scents for men out there. They are made by small companies, sometimes individuals, that smell just as good, if not better. And they are much cheaper.
I recently completed a deep dive into small-batch aftershaves, and what I found are artisan after-shaves that use high-quality ingredients, unique scent blending, and strong scents that last all day. Plus, like any hand-crafted product, these aftershaves aren’t mass-produced. Instead, they are carefully crafted by as few as one person or a small team.
Now there are A LOT of after-shave splashes on the internet. So I narrowed my research down to just woodsy blends. I personally think that woodsy scents are masculine and smell great on just about every man.
5 Small‑Batch Aftershave Picks with Great Reviews
Barrister and Mann Spice Aftershave Splash
Some reviewers compare it to Old Spice, so if that’s not your thing, you might be better off with some of the more woodsy scents below. The maker describes notes like carnation, nutmeg, vanilla, and tonka, evoking a vintage Americana feel.
151 positive reviews skew positive. And it’s hard to beat the price at around $25.
Cavendish Aftershave and Cologne
The Cavendish aftershave and cologne is right up your alley if you like the smell of tobacco, cedar, and cherry wood. So, in other words, it will remind you of pipe smoke, which to me smells very pleasant.
Reviews are positive, with most claiming that, although better worn during colder weather, the smell is cozy and good for everyday use.
Logbook Aftershave Splash
At only $20 a bottle, it’s pretty hard to beat Logbook Aftershave Splash. A review on Reddit describes it as a “woody fougère that, after initial fruity notes, settles into predominantly woody tones—complex yet approachable.”
Indeed, the consensus is that this aftershave is subdued, not loud or in your face.
Declaration Grooming Perigree Aftershave Splash
This aftershave has the woodsy scent of cedar and pine. I imagine that it would be fine for a warm day, but it really shines in cold weather.
You really can’t go wrong with the clean smell of cedar, and according to reviews, there’s a hint of tobacco as well. And it feels like a steal for under $14.99.
Stirling Soap Co. D-503 Aftershave Splash
This aftershave splash is inspired by the popular Montblanc Legend, presenting a woodsy/spicy style without the expensive price tag.
Reviews offer that it’s a nice in between scent that works well for older and younger gentlemen.
This is a seasonal scent, so it might not be available when reading this review.
In closing, there are a lot of small-batch aftershave proprietors who would love to have your business. I encourage you to do your own research to find a scent of your own, without breaking the bank.
