Beach Geeza Bay Rum Review(Ryan Hunts) + Boozy and Spicy Giveaway

Bay Rum by Beach Geeza

 Beach Geeza Bay Rum held by Ryan Hunts via Instagram

“I’m asked ‘what is your creative process? and I say I don’t really have one. Like a writer, painter, or musician, life experiences are what comes through in the work and in the medium of perfume, if a material or an accord generates a distinct memory then I know I’m on the right track”.-Ryan Hunts

Ryan Hunts of Beach Geeza

Ryan Hunts Founder and perfumer of Beach Geeza

Who knows what Bay Rum is? If you’re of a certain age you might remember your grandfather, father, or uncle wearing it. In the age of genderless and fluid fragrances, this was the original masculine scent. You would have most likely found a bottle of Bay Rum in the medicine cabinets of men born before 1950. Bay Rum is uniquely masculine and robust. Bay Rum has long been confused with the distilled alcoholic beverage known as rum. Let’s be clear about this, they are two different things. And what about Bay Rum the cologne and Bay Rum the aftershave? Is there a difference? I was asked that question after I reviewed Euphorium Brooklyn’s Bay Rum. And the truth is…sort of.

19th-century trade card, showing bay rum from St. Thomas. Via wiki

Different formulations of bay rum can have unique scents, so it is possible to tell the difference between bay rum fragrance and bay rum aftershave. Bay rum is a fragrance that can be used in both cologne and aftershave lotion. The scent, woody, sweet, and spicy originated from the West Indies bay leaf, and includes ingredients like spices, cloves, citrus rind, and rum. Bay Rum, frequently found in bay rum after-shaves because of the bay leaves, helps to de-stress one’s skin, helping prevent the occurrence of wrinkles and skin outbreaks. Long ago, days Bay leaf oil was also used to relieve cuts and bruises because of its antifungal and anti-bacterial properties.

Bay Rum is said to have a timeless appeal. But has that time come and gone? Did it ever leave? Or is it making a comeback with a new generation  that will embrace it? The exact origin of Bay Rum traced back to the mid-16th century, when Caribbean sailors created the distinctive scent by steeping the leaves of the West Indian Bay Tree in rum which would create a unique fragrance masking their malodor and provide a refreshing and invigorating scent to boost morale among the crew. As they sailed to different ports and shared their discovery, Bay Rum’s popularity spread throughout the Caribbean and then globally. The original recipe evolved over the years  to include added ingredients such as spices and citrus, resulting in the Bay Rum we are familiar with today. Most barbershops in America later developed their unique versions of bay rum aftershave to give their customers a manly scent after a straight razor shave. So, Bay Rum is a classic masculine scent that can be used as cologne, aftershave, deodorant, or shaving soap fragrance.

Bart Schmidt of Brands with Purpose and Ryan Hunts of Beach Geeza at Le Labo 233 Elizabeth Street in The Fragrance District photo Hernando©

Ryan Hunts, Founder and sole perfumer of Beach Geeza and I finally met at Sniffpalooza’s Fall Ball 2022 after exchanging a call or two and some emails. Well, hailing from Austin, TX there isn’t a beach in sight so he brings on those beach vibes. We spent that morning scenting around and getting to know each other olfactive preferences. I was happy making introductions to show some New York hospitality. I also facilitated to have him be one of the lunch presenters.

Ryan Hunts of Beach Geeza and Scent Bar NYC store manager, Vijay Uttam

Ryan Hunts of Beach Geeza and Scent Bar NYC store manager, Vijay Uttam photo Hernando©

I was glad to see that he was well-received by all the scent aficionados so much so he was invited back for Sniffapalooza Fall Ball 2023.

Beach Geeza Bay Rum

Beach Geza Bay Rum

The brand’s ethos is all about taking you on summer vacation. There’s something special about being on ‘Island time’ where anything is possible yet there’s no hurry to make it happen. Ryan believes the warm beach feeling is a healthy way to live and his scents have the way to transport you there. Beach Geeza Bay Rum, released in 2021, is a little much in the summer heat, unless you are in a climate-controlled environment. The cool weather is where it will shine. From the opening a prominent boozy scent sets the tone. Bay leaf has that delicate, warm aroma similar to oregano and thyme blends right into cassia, (known as “Chinese cinnamon” or “false cinnamon”) which does smell and tastes like cinnamon and has a strong, spicy, and slightly earthy aroma. Allspice? What is that you ask? Allspice got its name from the way it manages to smell like a combination of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg – sweet and dry, all at once. And of course, the rum.

Nutmeg Myristica fragrans ( Nutmeg ), Illustration by Köhler,  Public Domain Birds and all nature
Chicago Nature Study Publishing Co.,1898-1900.

At the heart of Beach Geeza Bay Rum, there is a whole lot of clove going on. One must really appreciate its very distinctive smell, warm, spicy, and a touch of bitterness. Here it has a smoky note reminiscent of a campfire. Clove blends well with various other notes. Cardamom, known for its warm, spicy, and slightly sweet scent profile has crisp notes of camphor, lemon, and mint, with woody and balsamic undertones and especially with nutmeg. Often used as a middle note its distinctive scent adds warmth and depth to Beach Geeza Bay Rum Cane sugar can smell sweet, a little  earthy due to its molasses content. Here the sweetness is welcomed.

Copaiba balsam

Copaiba Balsam via Unsplash

At the base of Beach Geeza Bay Rum Ryan works with three unusual notes, Copaiba Balsam, a sap-like substance that has a honeyed, balsamic-like quality to it. And Benzoin Resin, which offers up a distinctly rich scent of woody, sweet vanilla. Its layered composition unfolds in warm, honeyed facets not dissimilar to caramel, almond, or maybe roasted coffee. The other balsam Gurjun Balsam is soft with its woody, sweet, dry, balsamic, and resinous with hints of pine, patchouli, and camphor.

Beach Geeza Bay Rum puts a unique spin on the “cool weather” classic but it blooms in the heat. Although it does lean masculine, women will enjoy it too. Don’t wait for autumn !

Top: Bay Leaf, Cassia, Rum, Allspice

Heart: Cane Sugar, Nutmeg, Cardamom, Clove

Base: Oak Cask, Gurjun Balsam, Copaiba Balsam, Benzoin Resin

Beach Geeza fragrances can be purchased through their website and LuckyScent.

Disclaimer: My bottle of Bay Rum was kindly sent to me by Ryan Hunts. My opinions are mine and only mine!

Hernando Courtright ~ Senior Events Contributor and Brand Ambassador

All Photos are courtesy of Ryan Hunts except where credited otherwise and cannot be reproduced without permission.

Art Direction: Michelyn

Beach Geeza Bay Rum EDP

Beach Geeza Bay Rum

Thanks to Beach Geeza there is a 50 ml bottle of Bay Rum EDP in the USA. To enter the draw, YOU MUST BE A ÇaFleureBon registered reader. Please leave a comment saying what sparks your interest based on Hernando’s detailed history of bay rum and his review of Beach Geeza Bay Rum.  Draw closes July 03, 2024. The winner is announced within 10 days after and it is your responsibility to check back as we do not email you.

Please read Ryan Hunts of Beach Geeza’s Profile in American Perfumery here

Please enjoy Steven Gavrielatos aka Redolessence reviews of Beach Geeza Monkey’s Blood and Pearl Leather

Follow us on Instagram @cafleurebonofficial @CourtrightMgmt@beachgeeza @thatguyryanhunts

This is our Privacy and Draw Rules Policy

We announce the winners only on our site and on our Facebook page, so like ÇaFleureBon and use our blog feed… or your dream prize will be just spilled perfume.

 

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26 comments

  • David Furman says:

    This bay rum is some serious juice. Professor Hunts over is creating monsters and realeasing them on the unsuspecting public. I first heard of beech geeza with monkeys blood and Coco moon. Although I like those this takes the cake…rum cake. The fact that it’s small batch Indy perfumery makes it that much more sought after. This isn’t something everyone will have or know anything about. Please let me be graced with a bottle. From Jacksonville, NC.

  • Damara says:

    The child of the flowbee becomes fragrance creator.. that says it all for me.. bay rum sounds like a deep resinous summer sent. Would love to have a sip. Much love from New Jersey

  • Ramses Perez says:

    I love boozy scents and tropical scents myself so this looks like the perfect match made in heaven of those 2 characteristics. I was aware rum was very popular in the olden days but not to the extent of it being omnipresent everywhere pretty much. I knew about the healing properties too, but never that it was used in a celebratory way. A great takeaway from this article. Who doesn’t love to always feel like they’re on vacation? Ryan has a mission for us all to experience through his fragrances and if I’m so lucky to win I know the next bottle I’ll be taking with me on vacation. Cheers from USA.

  • April Lynn says:

    Really appreciate Hernando’s history of bay rum. Benzoin, cinnamon, spice, nutmeg. Sounds delicious. Sounds like it would transport me to a beach with a tropical beverage in hand. Spicy, honeyed, coffee scented breezes.Would love to wear this one.

  • Awtz27 says:

    Such a rich history of Bay Rum for those who are a big fan of cologne or aftershave from the old days. This version Beach Geeza is a unique twist for me, and honestly would be good on cold summer nights. The strong spicy, and earthly aroma is a big plus for me. Im from California USA

  • Sherin Thomas says:

    I love boozy fragrances during colder months. This is right up my alley. Thanks for the opportunity. From PA, USA

  • Steve A says:

    I agree with the article “Bay Rum is said to have a timeless appeal”. I’m curious to smell how the three unusual notes play their part. US

  • Surya says:

    I found Hernando Courtright’s review of Beach Geeza Bay Rum by Ryan Hunts to be an enlightening journey into the history and complexity of Bay Rum as a fragrance. The detailed explanation of its origins, dating back to the mid-16th century Caribbean sailors, provides a rich cultural context that enhances my appreciation of this scent.

    The review does an excellent job highlighting the unique aspects of Beach Geeza’s Bay Rum, especially the combination of bay leaf, cassia, rum, and allspice in the top notes, which creates a boozy and spicy opening that intrigues me. The heart of the fragrance, featuring cane sugar, nutmeg, cardamom, and clove, promises a warm and spicy depth that I find particularly appealing. The base notes of oak cask, Gurjun balsam, Copaiba balsam, and benzoin resin suggest a rich, woody, and slightly sweet dry down that would be perfect for cooler weather.

    Ryan Hunts’ creative process, inspired by life experiences and memories, adds a personal touch to the fragrance. His ethos of bringing ‘island time’ to life through his scents resonates with me, as I love fragrances that can transport you to a different place and time.

    Overall, this review makes me eager to experience Beach Geeza Bay Rum for myself, not just for its historical significance but also for its unique and modern take on a classic masculine scent. The chance to win a 50 ml bottle in the giveaway is an exciting opportunity to potentially make this intriguing fragrance a part of my collection.

  • jlsteckley says:

    I got a sample of this last week and this review totally nails it. Spot on take from the author. It’s such a good scent.

    From the USA

  • mikebkirby says:

    Bay Rum is such a classic scent profile. It was definitely up there with Brut and Old Spice as far as smells growing up. The local barbershop always had the Clubmans and Bay Rum for post shave. The Beach Geza Bay Rum sounds so transportive putting you somewhere warm, sunny, and happy.

  • IvanVelikov says:

    I am aware of Ryan Hunts and Beach Geeza because of Coco Moon, I was not aware of the origin of bay rum , Hernando Courtright filled us in really well. I like how Ryan took his time to develop the fragrance by exploring all aspects of the original idea of bay rum , making just a little bit more modern. He’s always seeking for originality , like him I love working with clients, who also look for originality , Ryan is making bespoke fragrances, and i make bespoke suits
    Spicy , slightly bitter and fruity, and prominently boozy feel , I’m interested in Bay Rum , Beach Geeza Bay Rum is artisanal fragrance inspired by the classics.
    Thank you Hernando Courtright, Ryan Hunts
    USA

  • Teresa C says:

    My sister and I discovered Bay Rum back in the 80s when we used to also wear Old Spice. I miss my bay rum! As the review says, it’s such a traditional but still unique (to each different formulation) scent. The Beach Geeza version has my full attention with the additonal resinous base notes. Sounds fabulous!

  • AromaDulce73 says:

    Interesting to know a little history on Bay Rum. For example, it was used for masking their malodor and provide a refreshing and invigorating scent to boost morale among the crew.

    I’m familiar with Beach Geeza, I’ve Samoa few of their fragrances. I’m definitely interested in getting my nose on Bay Rum. I love the note of Clove so I believe this would work well on my skin.

    Los Angeles Ca. USA

  • WaltherP99 says:

    I enjoyed very much Hernando Courtright thoughts on Ryan Hunts Bay Rum EDP and the origin of the cologne and aftershave lotion, but VERY IMPORTANT clarification is needed here !
    Don’t take it as a criticism but in the whole article Hernando never mentioned which concentration of Bay Rum he’s talking about , the EDP or the EDT , it’s only seen in Michelyn’s link to Beach Geeza website. I know it’s the EDP since I sampled both but on the first picture of the article is Bay Rum EDT ,and judging by Hernando’s evocative work some Cafleurebon subscribers could very well go to Beach Geeza website , blind-buy the EDT and receive a fragrance that do not smell like Hernando’s description.
    I know all Beach Geeza fragrances well , own 2 and I firmly believe people with no experience with the brand should be aware , and warned about 3 important things:
    1. All EDP’s are really loud, and powerful, with both great longevity and projection .
    2. There are big differences between the EDP’s and EDT’s , it’s not just concentration and performance, the scent profiles are tweaked , similar yes , but definitely not the same.
    3. Due to limited production, availability of ingredients and so on different batches of the same fragrances do have slight differences, and do not smell exactly the same.
    Out of all EDP vs EDT in Bay Rum there are the most distinct differences between the two concentrations , the EDP is way more powerful, significantly more spicy, more woody , and less boozy , EDT is sweeter, more boozy and creamy. Ryan would easily confirm about the differences I’ve mentioned if asked.
    In my opinion people should buy both sample sets , the EDP’s and EDT’s , and choose wisely.

    “In the age of genderless and fluid fragrances, this was the original masculine scent”

    Well said

    “Different formulations of bay rum can have unique scents, so it is possible to tell the difference between bay rum fragrance and bay rum aftershave”

    Correct, I wouldn’t call them different formulations, but different batches of Beach Geeza fragrances do have slight differences too , something Ryan Hunts himself talked about a couple of times. I bought both Coco Moon EDP twice and there and differences i can detect.

    “Long ago, days Bay leaf oil was also used to relieve cuts and bruises because of its antifungal and anti-bacterial properties”

    West Indian bay leaf is also used in the fitness industry for a long time because of its anti-inflammatory properties , it’s in most joint care supplements.

    “From the opening a prominent boozy scent sets the tone”

    Yes and no , no doubt there a nice boozy facets in the EDP, but to me what actually sets the tone from the very first spray until the drydown are the spices. EDT is more boozy.
    Like Hernando said the sugar cane and resinous sweetness is very much welcomed in the drydown.
    I have to rate my favorite Beach Geeza fragrances, first 2 I own:
    1. Cocoa Moon EDP
    2. Coco Moon EDP
    3. Bay Rum EDP
    All profiles I already follow, @waltherp99bg
    Thanks a lot
    USA

  • Arron_Q says:

    I love a good origin story so it was very nice to learn about the history of Bay Rum. I had idea it was called “Bay” Rum because it contained bay leaves. I thought the name simply implied it was a tropical or beachy take on rum. To be honest, it is not a scent I am familiar with. Being that it is such a classic, I bet it is one of those scents that I have encountered at some point and just didn’t know what it was. This version from Beach Geeza sounds quite nice and I have heard a lot about it. I am a big fan of clove and nutmeg so those have certainly caught my eye. I’m not sure if I have ever smelled bay leaves in a fragrance before so I’m curious to see what herbal tones it brings to the party. Best of luck to everyone. I live in NC, USA.

  • opalbear says:

    Oh I would looove if Bay Rum made a comeback. Along with Florida Water, Hoyt’s, Old Spice, Brut 33 and Tres Flores. All classic fragrances in my mind. I had forgotten about Bay Rum until a friend asked me if I could make her a whole batch of Bay Rum scented soaps and off I went… it turns out the spices are amazing and I fully realized and remembered how good it is, something you just kind of take for granted since it’s so everyday. I would love to have a bottle of this iconic accord. It’s that perfect balance of spice, sweetness, woods and freshness. I am located in US. Thank you for the chance to win!

  • petergigov says:

    I do know what bay rum is , and certainly there are different formulations worldwide. When I was living in Spain local barbershops are using more citrusy, spicy and woody versions, in US at least at the barbershop I do visit for the last few years their bay rum do smell like Caribbean party ,like a sweetened rum cocktail. I’m actually glad Ryan Hunts formulation of Bay Rum is somewhere in between the Spanish and US , it’s both woody and spicy but also boozy and sweet , sophisticated fragrances, I have a feeling I’ll enjoy it a lot.
    Beach Geeza Cocoa Moon EDP is tropical chocolate fragrance i sampled because of Cafleurebon video Steven made maybe two and a half years ago , I bought a bottle soon after .
    Overly exciting giveaway, USA
    Regards

  • Kelsey H says:

    I’ve eyeballed Beach Geeza for years and it’s lovely to finally read a review about the brand and their ethos. While I personally tend to prefer genderless fragrance and those that lean towards the masculine, I am extremely curious how the cardamom note blooms in this scent. Something I love when done right and works with my chemistry. It’s such a treat to read about the origins of Bay Rum along with the opinion that starting and blossoming in a tropical climate, Beach Geeza’s interpretation is better suited towards cooler weather. Greetings from The Bay!

    Kelsey

  • glowup says:

    Initially I was drawn to the boozy aspect of this fragrance but learning how and where the scent originated made me even more intrigued.

    Indiana USA

  • mmerline says:

    Ryan took an interesting approach to adapting bay rum—a fairly straightforward aftershave or simple splash formula—into a more complex fragrance. It’s a heavier, more spiced scent than many in the Beach Geeza roster, with a focus on that clove that is often a divisive aspect of bay rum scents. He was wise to tone down the aspects that some might describe as medicinal, though there is that balsam—“resinous with hints of pine, patchouli, and camphor”. The combination of clove, cardamom, nutmeg, and cane sugar makes me think of spice cake. It’s an unusual balance of notes and a welcome take on the bay rum archetype. Thanks for the review.

    I’m in the USA.

  • Gig84 says:

    I went to Ryan Hunts Profile in American Perfumery article , his resume is so diverse, coming from entrepreneurial family, from a camera guy to perfumer, the venue where I believe he found his true purpose.
    No wonder Ryan has a desire to connect with his customers and grow as perfumer , with Bay Rum he went to the classics. I thought Bay Rum means a rum from the bay , meaning a liquor but now thanks to Hernando Courtright i know about the cologne and the aftershave.
    I knew nothing about the medical properties of bay leaf, and the 16th century origin of Bay Rum thanks Hernando.
    Prominently boozy and quite spicy aroma, a base with 3 unusual resinous notes , Copaiba Balsam , benzoin and Gurjun balsams, Bay Rum is cold weather classical essence in Summer vacation clothes.
    Thanks for the draw
    USA

  • zibbyz says:

    I liked finding out what bay rum really is! I think all the spice notes working together along with the resin and balsam notes sounds really yummy. I would love to try an island time perfume. Thank you for the illuminating review and the draw. I’m in the US

  • wallygator88 says:

    Thanks for the great review Hernando.

    Bay Rum fragrances are so difficult to make as perfumes, primarily because we are in a time were such a fragrance is not really welcome by the mainstream.

    I love the idea of a scent filled with spices, my jam but I recognize that it is not everyone’s jam. I do think that Hunt has taken an interesting approach in the base, with the use of these beautiful resins, to create a fragrance with a warm deep base, rather than just rum.

    I would love to get my nose on this.

    Cheers from WI, USA

  • Uncle1979 says:

    I read Ryan Hunts profile in American Perfumery article, Impressive career for his age, reading Ryan himself telling us how he started because owas a pleasure. What he went through to get where he’s at right now, was so satisfying.
    “That’s it! Beach Geeza! That’s you Man!”
    Exactly the same thing happened with me, when I decided to name my bakery , and the quote from his path to perfumery
    I’m aware of Bay Rum , but the extra information Hernando Courtright provided added extra layers to my knowledge.

    “Bay leaf has that delicate, warm aroma similar to oregano and thyme blends right into cassia, (known as “Chinese cinnamon” or “false cinnamon”) which does smell and tastes like cinnamon and has a strong, spicy, and slightly earthy aroma”

    Coming from a Classically trained in Paris Pastry Chef that’s only partially true. Bay leaves come from multiple different plants , and have distinctive flavor and aroma. Here comes the overly confusing part , the so called Indian Bay Leaf has two main subspecies

    ☆ The South Indian Bay leaf coming from Indonesia and Malaysia

    ☆ The West Indian Bay leaf coming from India ,China and Bangladesh.

    Even within the so called West Indian Bay there distinct differences in terms of flavor and aroma.
    Aslo Cassia doesn’t necessarily mean Chinese cinnamon , to put it simple basically Indian cassia = Indian Bay leaf, Chinese cassia = Chinese cinnamon . I know it’s confusing but basically all smell like cinnamon but some are very spicy and earthy like Hernando suggested, but others are spicy-sweet , or spicy-floral smelling a bit like frangipani.

    “Cardamom, known for its warm, spicy, and slightly sweet scent profile has crisp notes of camphor, lemon, and mint”

    Not exactly, more like eucalyptus but not as much as camphor. Cardamom could smell like camphor because some kinds of eucalyptus smell a bit like camphor, but not all. Cardamom could go in variety of different directions, from sweet and eathy , to smoky , to floral , resinous and citrucy.
    Hernando’s take on Beach Geeza Bay Rum made me think of being in St. Thomas , making and later on eating Caribbean Spiced Rum Bundt Cake .
    Beach Geeza Coco Moon EDP i own , smells like Coconut and Pineapple Cake
    Appreciate the review, Ryan Hunts Profile in American Perfumery , and the giveaway campaign
    USA

  • Bubeto_GG says:

    My dad was wearing some UK version of Bay Rum while I was a kid , and I’ve been to St. Thomas in the according to the factory tour guide “The original Bay Rum facility, where we still make it exactly the way it was made hundreds of years ago”.
    As a liquor lover I’m intrigued by Hernando Courtright “From the opening a prominent boozy scent sets the tone” catchy description , Beach Geeza Bay Rum wait for me 😉 , what’s masculine is for me to decide .
    Lots of rum , bay leaf , allspice and different resins in the base , I’m all in.
    Thank you for the opportunity
    USA