John Varvatos Artisan Blu

John Varvatos Artisan Blu, launched in 2016, is a fresh aquatic fragrance designed for the man who values understated elegance and effortless style. As a flanker to the original Artisan, this edition shifts focus from the woody-spicy warmth of its predecessor to a cooler, greener, and more citrus-forward profile. Created by perfumer Rodrigo Flores-Roux, Artisan Blu captures the essence of a Mediterranean coastal breeze, blending aromatic herbs with aquatic notes for a scent that is both invigorating and refined.

The fragrance is housed in the brand’s signature woven bottle, a nod to artisan craftsmanship, but with a deep blue hue that suggests the sea. It is an eau de toilette with moderate performance, making it ideal for daytime wear in warmer months. With a price point between $40 and $80 for a 125ml bottle, it offers solid value for a designer scent that doesn’t compromise on quality or character.

In this review, we break down the notes, performance, and overall appeal of John Varvatos Artisan Blu, drawing on verified data and user feedback to help you decide if this aquatic is worth adding to your rotation.