Eau Santal

Olfactory Experience

Eau Santal opens with a surprisingly green violet accord, leaning almost cucumber-like, alongside a whisper of cardamom that's quickly overtaken by the violet. The heart introduces a powdery iris, but the ambrox here adds a peculiar metallic tang, like licking a freshly polished spoon. It deviates from the original Santal 33 most noticeably in the drydown, where the cedarwood becomes quite dominant, almost pencil-shaving like. The leather is subtle, more of a suede suggestion than full-grain. The sandalwood is present, but lacks the creamy, almost lactonic quality of a high-end sandalwood oil; it’s drier, slightly scratchy.

Performance Reality Check

I get about six hours of noticeable wear, with projection initially around arm's length, settling closer to the skin after two hours. I wore it to the office, a casual dinner, and on a weekend hike. It performed adequately in all scenarios.

To Buy or Not to Buy?

This is a solid choice for the individual who appreciates a modern, woody fragrance with a touch of floral sweetness. Imagine a graphic designer in their late 20s, sporting stylish glasses and a minimalist wardrobe. They work in a creative office setting, bike to work, and enjoy independent coffee shops. Eau Santal fits their aesthetic – clean, understated, and effortlessly cool. It's a reliable, everyday scent that won't overpower a room, suitable for both professional and casual environments.