I'm not sure what the expected shelf life is for Santa Maria Novella Crema da Barba, but after 4-1/2 years this tub is still going strong.
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I know they're not a very good pictures, but you can see that the bottom of the tub is still not visible. I've been using it off and on since I bought it back in 2007 and wrote this review.

Since it is not getting any younger (and neither am I) I've decided to use it more frequently. For the past few months I have been using it most weekends. It is still the best lathering product that I have and consistently get BBS shaves with it using plain old Red IP blades. I am still amazed at how great this stuff is.

With so many great products to try, I rarely replace any of my products when they are gone. This one, however, is at the top of my list for replenishing when the time comes. I got a steal on this tub when I got it for under $20, but even at the regular retail price of ~$50 I believe it is still a great value.

Just thought I would give an update.