Rose Santal

Straight out the gate, this is downright pleasant. Really pleasant. The rose is wonderfully smooth, sweet and in perfect balance with the sandalwood, which adds just the right amount of base and deliciousness. The cardamom is there in equal force, adding the sharpness, and balancing all components out equally. It is, however, a VERY safe scent, for mine. Way too safe. I have an Amouage attar that does something quite similar to this already, but adds a skanky animalic tinge to it which makes it work. This here, whilst expertly levelled, layered and mixed, is just too safe for who I am and everything I've been through. I love it, but I just couldn't wear it...

I really like this since rose is my fave note, but is it a love? Not really. If I got is cheap or free, I would wear it. I like it. But it's not earthshattering. What I do like is that it is deep and rich. Not just a rose but a big green rose with some soft cardamom and some labdanum that makes it warm and rich and resinous. The sandalwood rounds out the peppery edges and makes it creamier. I don't love sandalwood, but this is an element not prominent. It is nothing like Le Labo, thank goodness. But it is a bit weak. It goes on strong and big but quickly fades to a skin scent. Wish it was an EDP.

More rose focus and less contrasting notes (pepper for one) would have been better, it ruins enjoyment of such a lovely flower.

What a gorgeous rose cardamom accord on a bed of soft sandalwood! So refreshing and pretty, simple yet a real statement. A quality rose oil (probably damascena) with an extraordinary cardamom and what seems to be an australian sandalwood, all perfectly judged and blended, are the stars. And how beautifully they work together to create an uplifting, sensual perfume with a cologne feel. The cardamom truly makes it different, and is so well integrated that it seamlessly creates continuity between the rose and wood accords. A work of great talent, the effect is natural, light and modern and also long lasting, especially on clothes. Lovely.