I look for a sheen. If your lather is "matte" in appearance, then there is a high probability that it is insufficiently hydrated. I have the original and fougère and, believe it or not, worked my way halfway through a "Brain Bowl" before PIFfing it. While the post-shave isn't that of Mystic Water or MWF, the lather and scents are upper-echelon without a doubt.
Yes it is one of my favorite soaps. I consistently get great shaves when I use MdC. For me it is to be an excellent straight forward shaving soap. I have used and many of the soaps on your list as well. If I had to pick just one soap it would MdC. However, that doesn't mean you have to like it since many people don't like it.
Good questions, Kevin. I have the same reaction as Jeff to certain products in all categories (not just shaving), but in my case the reasons are without reason. Just gut reaction to something about the product--marketing, packaging, hype, etc. I recognize it in myself, and after all these years don't question it much. Jeff may have more logical reasons. For myself, I find the MdC Fougere and Rose scents among the best in my den, the lathering and performance is right at the top, and the cost per shave minimal. I'm glad I took the leap.
Is the "Original" contained in the "Brain Bowl" the same as the "Scented" they sell in tubs that is scented with lavender, rosemary and mint?
If you love it then use it. Ill never knock anyone for a product they love. The jar and label are gorgeous. BUT in my opinion its an average soap. Lathers like crazy. Lasts a long time. But terrible post shave. I mean bad. The scent wasnt great in my opinion either. If im paying big money for a soap it better do EVERYTHING great.
