Cella Crema da Barba all’Olio di Mandorla is widely regarded as one of the finest shave soaps Italy has produced; there is no surprise that they have been manufacturing (supposedly without changing their formula) since 1899. I should note here, that there is apparently a fair amount of debate as to whether or not Cella’s “Crema da Barba all’Olio di Mandorla” (sold in the small red plastic tub) is the exact same formulation as the “Crema Sapone Extra Extra Purissima” (sold in the 1kg bricks.) The consensus is that they are extremely similar, but no one is sure if any differences noted between the two are by design, or just as a result of the environmental effects over time due to the different packaging methods. This review is on the soap sold in the small red plastic tub.

The scent is a classic sweet almond / marzipan. It’s quite wonderful, and there is no surprise that it has inspired countless others soap-makers. Very pleasant. It is strong enough to be noticeable while shaving, but lightly so. Personally, I’d prefer it to be a tad stronger.

It quite easily whips up into voluminous clouds of thick puffy cream, with just a little bit o’ water on the brush. And it gives a very nice shave, giving just enough lubrication to allow your razor to glide over the face. It gives enough cushion, without getting in the way.

9/10 Scent Pleasantness

8/10 Scent Strength

8/10 Lather Quality (reflects new scoring as outlined here)

Overall, I give it a 8/10. I would highly recommend this to anyone at all who doesn’t hate the scent of almonds.

Gear used: