Javanese Patchouli

Javanese Patchouli by Zegna (Frank Voelkl) is an undeniably patchouli fragrance. Its style is very far from mainstream patchouli fragrances. This blend is sharp and pure, coming from the deepest, greatest niche. The heart of the composition is the realm of the patchouli note of a very high standard. It smells extremely natural. Many of its characteristics can also be found in this composition. First of all, a slightly moist earthiness. It brings to mind associations with the eponymous Indonesian jungle. From Javanese Patchouli beats a specific, as if tropical, warmth. The leather character of the main note of this perfume also fits well into this climate. Cedarwood is responsible for the woody and more sophisticated side of the composition. An interesting change can be observed in the base of the composition as Javanese Patchouli becomes noticeably cooler. The jungle falls into the evening, evoking twilight. Javanese Patchouli is a sophisticated and unusual perfume. With such a form of presentation of this ingredient, Frank Voelkl undoubtedly deserves applause. The whole composition is very coherent and stands at a very high level. Javanese Patchouli really does enthrall. 🔸🔶🔸🔶🔸🔶🔸🔶🔸🔶🔸🔶🔸🔶🔸🔶🔸 🔹Main note: Javanese Patchouli 🔹Launched: 2012

What a joke! From the note listed you would NEVER, EVER be able to guess right how Javanese Patchouli smells. And let me tell you, this beauty smells like a sweet, sweet dream. Or a luxury department store. The biggest surprise is that Javanese Patchouli has a naturally sweetened aroma. It is sweet! But not in a gourmand-y way. The sweetness reminds me of the nectar of neroli, slightly flora and honeyed, but not animalic or cloying. The patchouli is more on the woody side likely due to the cedar note. The end result is a clean, clear, and smoky patchouli composition. Very elegant. As the perfume dries down the tonka note gets pushed forward, and you have a sweet, herbal woody base that lingers for hours. No earthiness here at all. Overall the scent lasts for 12 hours on paper strip, which is usually around 6-7 on me. It's quite unfortunate this line is promoted as men's EDT. I know at least 2 (this and Indianian Oud) that are totally unisex and would sell so well in the female market. As for me? I really don't mind getting a bottle.

I have to admit that Javanese Patchouli made a strong impression on me. It is a refined and distinctive fragrance. The patchouli at its core does not come across as harsh or challenging in the slightest — instead, it is presented in a remarkably approachable way. With this interpretation, Frank Voelkl undoubtedly deserves recognition. The minimalist entourage surrounding the main note is equally noteworthy, allowing the central accord to truly take the spotlight. Importantly, the composition remains cohesive throughout and is executed at a very high level. The quality of the ingredients is evident, and it clearly translates into the overall experience. Javanese Patchouli is genuinely captivating. That said, it is a fragrance better suited to cooler days. I would also hesitate to wear it on a date — after all, it is still a patchouli-driven composition, albeit a more approachable one. Nevertheless, it is absolutely worth discovering. My rating: Highly recommended! (7/7)

Oh, my goodness. Someone very nice sent me a sample of this and I could not stop smelling myself all day! The sillage and the longevity on this are hours and hours. I knew that same day I wanted the full bottle so I went online and got it. It smells cool to me, not cold, but definitely one of the finest patchoulis I have ever smelled in my life. Patchouli is my favorite note in perfumery, and I have smelled a lot, but I knew this one was special! I know that it's made for men, and I can see where it smells masculine, but unlike some others that say masculine and I CAN'T wear those, this one I actually can and don't feel uncomfortable at all. However, I would LOVE to smell this on a man!!! I would probably chase after him just to ask what he was wearing. Anyway, buy this. You won't be able to stop smelling yourself or your loved one and will agree it's one of the best patchouli fragrances available.

I bought this as a blind buy. I can’t remember where I first heard of the name. I am glad I did. This frag is very unique when compared to the rest of my collection. I can’t recall ever smelling this on anyone before. When I have worn this, it left a lasting impression on several people. My brother said I reminded him of his mid 80’s elementary school teacher. She must have worn a patchouli fragrance. It made an impression on him if he still remembers her scent. Anyway, I love the fresh and clean scent this fragrance has. It is so wonderful. I can’t believe that it is discontinued. I think of business casual and up when wearing this. It just seems a bit classy to wear with everyday casual attire. But, that’s just how I perceive it. I recommend anyone interested in Patchouli give this a try. I get lots of compliments from people stating it smells great and different.

I hate patchouli. Patchouli is that harsh, smelly, cheap incense and BO scent I remember from 1000 concerts, natural food stores, and parties. I grew up and live in a college town and know patchouli well. My mom’s friends wore it. My preschool teaches wore it. People you pass in the street wear it. And I have always hated it. I’d rather drown in moth balls. This.... this perfume.... sweet baby Jesus. This is fabulous. Not harsh. Just... divine. Sweet, musky, patchouli but with none of the ick. I got this as part of a decant pack of the Zegna Essenze collection and thought nothing of it.... until I tried it. It is maybe the best of the bunch or at least neck and neck with the Mandarine. Fabulous.

CLEAN DIRT _______________________________________________________ 2 weeks after I had the great fortune to discover 'FLORENTINE IRIS', today I discovered This magnificent fragrance. It starts with an explosion of fresh and clean patchouli. I had expected for the patchouli to be dirty and sweet/dark, but Zegna surprised me with this, because it is very fresh and very clean (probably because of the combination of bergamot and pepper). In the dry-down I got a lot of flowers. I don't know how, but 30 minutes afterwards, all I could smell was a very feminine bouquet. I fell in love with it. Longetivity: - 7/10 Sillage: - 7/10 All in all: 10 out of 10 points - It feels unique.

@Carpe Noctem You said everything I had in my mind. Yes, it suits women who love a good patchouli note, yes, it's clean and classy, yes it's masculine but on woman's skin is transformed into an airy veil with a lovely earthy quality and yes, I did bought it (for 1/3 of the price in a E.L. Group bazaar) and never looked back. It's the most amazing patchouli I have ever smelled! But if you still read me and you're a woman, I confess that today I wanted to play a bit and I put a tiny drop of Sisley's Izia (crispy rose) on top of this. Two hours later and I'm in heaven. I smell Perles de Lalique!

Not just grows on me, but gets me addicted in. It's definately a masterpiece! I invariably cannot help myself to sniff my wrist like taking some sorts of drugs. Oh, yes, it is more addicted than drugs. LOL. The best part is a fantastic patchouli-cedar combo . I didn't notice that at first, before many many times wearing and detailed comparisons with other patchouli frags, which is really owesome, and very unique among dozens of patchoulis on the market . The only flaw I need to point out is that the longevity of 6-9 hrs is not long enough to enjoy. Rating: 9.5/10.

Possibly the best patchouli ever experienced and probably one of my favorite scents of all time. I feel so fortunate to have come across this pure gem. The overall effect over and over again is compellingly beautiful, a fresh faced patchouli scent never cloying nor leads to olfactory fatigue like many other patchoulis. A no brainer for patchouli fans out there. Get some while you can as stocks everywhere seem to be vanishing.

This is one of the professional patchouli fragrance. Perfectly blended. Combination of bergamot and pink pepper make it fresh & light spicy. Tonka bean and cedar wood absolutely well balance to produce sweet and warm vibe. This perfume is high-end level. Perfectly clean fresh, sweet and warm. I love wearing it for work. Very easy to wear and pleasant. I give it 8.5/10

I'm devastated to find out that this scent has been discontinued. It's my favorite to apply after a shower; it's a very mellow and light cologne, not too overpowering. I've had my bottle for at least 8 years, so it's possible the scent has faded over time. Still one of my favorites. I wish I bought another bottle before they stopped selling it :(

currently on my 4th bottle of 5 of this amazing fragrance, deep and earthy, hugely masculine - dont get the funk some people say.. massive staying power, 2- 3ft range, honestly if you can can get some of this - its the dogs bollocks.....why it was discontinued is frankly beyond me....

Oh this is gorgeous! I'm surprised this has been marked as 'male' as this is no more a single sex fragrance than Grand Soir or Patchouli Imperial. This is rich and smooth with a wonderfully aromatic dry down. Please test if you love your patchoulis and woods. It's luscious!

@Bajar, I'm so glad you loved it too!! I decided to wear it tonight too, then I saw your review. I too love Izia-I almost bought a full bottle last month but bought something else instead. I will have to try your suggestion; thank you! :)

A smooth, clean, versatile yet dark and intriguing take on patchouli. The fragrance is linear and quite fresh as well. Very good people's reactions. Perfect for the semi-formal office days. I would call it semi-niche as well.

Smells pretty much just like Brutus, perhaps more sophisticated and classier. Overpriced though very good. Apparently they use "natural ingredients" per my conversation with SA at bloomies. Solid 9/10

Euphoric, incredible, the best patchouli ever. How could they discontinue this!? Surely they’ll bring it back. It’s the best patchouli our there

Amazing! So lucky to have it. Beautifully crafted by Grand master perfumers. What a wonderful potion. I wish it hadn't been discontinued.

This is the missing link, Coco Mademoiselle for men. Exactly what I have been looking for. Great rendition of patchouli.