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.

Just one simple sentence. This just represents an image of a rich and successful man with style.

I tried the lab sample of this fragrance.it is warm spicy with very clean patchouli note.

Natural body/skin scent. Remarkable quality.

İlk sıktığınız an çok yoğun bir biber ile acımsı bir açılış yapıyor. Yanında kesinlikle çok net ve kaliteli bir bergamot da var. Açılış çok kısa sürüyor ve hemen oldukça kuru ve topraksı bir paçuli (silhat) başrole geçiyor. Bu paçuliye kırmızı biberdeki ferahlık ile bana gözlerimi kapattığımda baharda bir ağacın altına oturmuş hafif serin esen rüzgarın tadını çıkartıyormuşum hissini yaşattı. Orta ve dip notalarda çok değişim olmuyor. Paçuli hep başrolde. Tonka fasülyesi çok az hissedilmekle birlikte bulunmakta. Dip notalarda sedir bi var bi yok şekilde gözükse de pek belirgin değil. Kullanılan paçuli karanlık ve kuru baharatlı bir yapıda. Kullanılan ham madde gerçekten kaliteli ve koku güzel olsa dahi ne yazık ki performansı oldukça vasat. Sıktığım an 5-10 dakika sonrasında tene yakınlaşıyor. Koku güzelliği:8 Kalıcılık:4 Farkedilirlik:5 Fiyat/Performans:6 Genel Puan:6

Javanese Patchouli has a great balance of pink pepper - much superior to that of Creed Viking - that really adds peps and warmth depth to this fragrance without overpowering the green and woody notes.... I sprayed a tester on the back of my hand early summer evening and spent quite a lot of the night smelling it until only a ghost remained at 2am which works out to be around 6 or 7 hours from one spray. {UPDATE} Recent winter days has seen longevity as a skin scent reach over 10 hours. This would be great for day and/or night wear in Winter and the pink pepper would allow it to hold up during even a humid summer night but it's probably best suited to cooler weather.

Javanese is a nice masculine spicy woody patchouli fragrance. I get the comparisons to Tempo but not to Estee Lauders Radiant Mirage, which I own and love. Radiant Mirage is much more feminine w/ its beautiful jasmine. I could never wear this because it is so masculine, but it will smell nice on my husband. Woody, spicy, fresh a bit earthy. Very elegant and tailored fragrance for a man. Could go easily from day to evening. Office safe if used w/ a light hand. I picture a well-dressed man rushing to the office or out on a date w/ his wife or girlfriend. Even the bottle would look nice on a man's dresser.

Sexy and slick, leans masculine. A fresh, crisp, herbaceous, green patchouli - very spicy and woody in the opening with a hint of patchouli, and dries down to something very similar to Tempo by Diptyque. I like it, though I agree that this one leans masculine. Still could be worn by a woman, though, but maybe a more androgynous one. For what it's worth, the "masculine" component of the spices and the woods lifts off my skin very quickly, it transforms into a unisex patchouli within half an hour or so. Scent: 7.5/10 Projection: Moderate Longevity: Moderate Polarity: Unisex to masculine

Not a bad stuff but nothing so exceptional or extraordinary. Tipical for designer frags it opens geourgeos in attempt to catch your attention. Unfortunately it shifts almost immediately to very simple patchouli fragrance. Yes, it sounds natural but lack any character and presence. It stays extremely linear after the first few minutes (which sometime is not bad) but in this case I am really bored. Sits close to the skin and after 2 hours is barely noticeable. For sure doesn't deserve such a high price tag. You can find much better patchouli based frags on the market.

Beautiful sweet peppery patchouli with a dash of citrus! The blends in nicely balance out the patchouli. You can smell the quality ingredients used in this one. To be honest this could be used all year round, it’s not powerful or cloying. This really is a gem of a fragrance.

Even though this perfume is for men, I am going to purchase one for myself. Absolutely amazing.. the perfect amount of patchouli that should be in a perfume. Update: Bought it and ended up giving it to my uncle. Too masculine for me.

Sanırım kimse bu kokuyu V de Vakko ya benzetmemiş. Açılış olarak bire bir aynı neredeyse. İlk bir kaç saat paçuli kokusu alamadım. Kurudukça bakalım nasıl olacak.

This is probably my favorite patchouli dominant scent, that being said I don't like patchouli enough to warrant this full bottle worthy but it's nice for sure.

More woody and complex version of beau de jour 2019. Scent: 6/10 Longetivity: 6/10 Sillage: 6/10 Mass Appeal: 5/10 Compliments: 4/10

A dry, crystalline, clean, limpid patchouli. As filtered and filtered. The patchouli of Sunday. Well!

Scent: 6/10 Projection: 7/10 Longevity: 8/10

It's a well done linear dark but clean woody fragrance, that is cedar and patchouli with a strong support of pink pepper. The freshly cut cedar/pink pepper combo gives nearly a minty impression. While not directly noticeable bergamot and tonka beans notes give respectively the freshness and sweetness to perfectly balance the blend. To be honest I like it, but given the hype I was expecting a lot more, especially after the stunning Indonesian Oud and the unique Peruvian Ambrette of the same line. I will echo previous reviews in stating that performance is average (at best) on my skin - a major downside given the retail price - and I'm happy I managed to get a great price for a full bottle, despite its current rarity. This is a perfectly tailored inoffensive woody-patchouli fragrance, suitable for wear in an office environment. I personally largely prefer an earthier/dirtier take on patchouli, like the 3-courses masterful interpretation offered by Histoires de Parfums in Noir Patchouli, or even Davidoff Zino (the latter plays in a lower league compared to JP and NP, but is also much cheaper). Overall a good juice, but definitely overhyped. Just a like for me. Spring/Fall days, 40+ Edit: I really like the dry peppery-woody drydown (but the patchouli has nearly disappeared at this point).

Discontinued, as well as Haitian Vetiver and Peruvian Ambrette. The Chicago store confirmed that the 5 other fragrances of the Essenze line still on the market will share the stage with the 5 fragrances of the new "Elements of Man" line until Spring 2019, when the Essenze will be discontinued. "Talent" (of Elements of Man new line) is a yuzu based fragrance that contains bergamot, haitian vetiver and patchouli. It is thus the "universal" alternative for "Haitian Vetiver", "Italian Bergamot" and "Javanese Patchouli".

While I've never been to the island of Java, I imagine that this is what an Indonesian forest floor might smell like; dark, earthy, woody & musky. Zegna's Javanese Patchouli is a very distinctive, slightly sweet and solid representation of the core ingredient of patchouli. At first I detect the patchouli straight up, quickly followed by a sweetness that I'll asume is the pink pepper and tonka. Like Zegna's Indonesian Oud this is a fairly linear scent that doesn't develop too much from first spray to dry down. Right through its whole life (of about 8 - 10 hours) I can clearly detect the patchouli. Although Zegna's marketing would have you believe that each of the Essenze collection is built on or contains Calabrian bergamot (from Zegna's own plantation would you believe!), I cannot detect any citrus whatsoever in this composition. Not that it detracts from the wonderful smell; it's just my observation. In contrast, all the other Essenze line (which i have now extensively tested) do contain some citrus notes; including Indonesian Oud which does have a very fleeting representation in the top notes. I don't have a great deal of patchouli heavy fragrances in my collection, but if I was asked to liken this to anything else, it would have to be Luten's and Sheldrake's Borneo 1834. Like 'Borneo' the presence of patchouli is front and centre, however Borneo has a sort of camphorous quality that I don't detect here. Of course Borneo also has cacao, which Zegna's latest does not. The only other fragrances I am familiar with by Frank Voelkl are his RSVP & Signature scents for Kenneth Cole. As much as I like those two quite a bit, this is a definite step up as far as quality goes. Overall, while this is not as perfect a 5 star fragrance as I find Indonesian Oud to be (mainly due to its lack of versatility), this Javanese Patchouli is a very solid and delightfully earthy addition to Zegna's new Essenze line up. 4 and half stars.

If you don't expect a straight-forward head-shop classic patchouli a-la Reminiscence / Les Nereides, if you're not looking for a dry and dark patch-centered composition along the line of Sombre Negra / Mink or for the challenging roughness of Mazzolari Lui and Farmacia SS Annunziata's Patchouly Indonesiano, this Zegna might fit your bill. A polished take on the main theme which opens with a zesty citrus while immediately uncovering a slightly camphorous patchouli note. The main player here is devoided of any of its challenging facets while still somehow mantaining some of its inherent earthy quality. The whole fragrance is supported by a designer-inspired woody-tonka base that makes it both quite safe and very easy to like. When it comes to *polished* takes on this note, I still prefer stuff more complex comps such as Coromandel but give this a chance as it's indeed pretty solid. Pros: Solid, easy to like, versatile. Cons: Simple and overpriced. Rating: 7/10

Javanese patchouli begins as a spicy-dirty-woody composition. I was immediately taken to the mental image of an antique wooden trunk filled with vintage well-worn outerwear that has been left forgotten in someone's attic for decades. The pink pepper and cedar are both very discernable and blend well with the patchouli. Interestingly, for me this fragrance actually gets much fresher in the heart phase and I notice the bergamot only after the first 30-45 minutes have passed. The drydown is essentially a sweetened light patchouli by virtue of the pink pepper and tonka beans. It's a beautiful and well thought out composition. The scent is very pleasant yet also has character. However, for the price you'd really have to enjoy this to justify a full bottle. This is especially true with discontinuation eminent and it already being difficult to acquire this on the secondary market. Scent: 8.25/10 Longevity: Long Lasting Sillage: Moderate Value: D Versatility: B+

When I first sampled the Zegna's Esseze line, the standout was Indonesian Oud (with the perfect balance of medicinal Oud and deep rose, which was unique yet smells professional enough for work). However, it was undeniable that there was quality ingredients and perfumery mastery within the entire range. I am glad I returned to smelling the range many times over and Javanese Patchouli finally revealed its magic. It's front and centre patchouli, yet it has been miraculously refined (unlike the more often found hippie quotient it exudes). Must try for even those who are not partial to Patchouli, as well as Patchouli lovers just to undestand how this wild note can be beautifully manipulated.

Another raved about scent, another meh. Like Creed Viking, there is nothing sweet about this scent. It starts off actually pretty similar to Zegna's Peruvian Amber. Dull, austere, strangely vague mix of something soil-like with a little musk and that 'inside of unsweetened baked-beans' vegetal note. Maybe a tiny bit sweeter, like sweetened hay or some very dry sugar cane near a pond. Nothing exciting like say, caramel,, or a delicious cacao or sweet appley peary popsicle note to catch and grab my attention and rattle my wallet. So blah, it's almost painful. The bottle is £110. My rating: 4/10

This is my second fragrance I've purchased from the masters at Ermenegildo Zegna & believe me these people know how to make perfume..My first one was indonesian oud which i was very pleased with.After trying a few other brands in the market this one i found awesome. I've always been using original oud oils which are very expensive but indonesian oud isn't far off.As for javanese patchouli well this my friends is class in a glass..It smells great,fresh,woody,awesome & depending on your skin type a spray of this masterpiece & you'll be smelling like a king.

EDT: Probably the classiest patchouli fragrance I've smelled thus far. Sharp bergamot opening which is then overshadowed by nothing more but patchouli. It's not too earthy or chocolate-y but actually perfectly balanced as a note. It reminded me of LV's Orage at times. Definitely a mature take on patchouli. Even though it's well made, I found it too one dimensional for my personal taste. After prolonged wearing it became a bit boring if you will. Performance is average. Great to wear for the office or formal occasions. 7/10

A non-hippie patchouli that reminds me very much of Lalique Hommage a l’Homme Voyageur. The patchouli is clean rather than dirty/earthy in both cases, supported by wood and a bit of spices. Both spread patchouli over a warm backdrop that comes across very smooth. No rough edges. Javanese Patchouli has just a bit more sharp/forward-sitting patchouli note. I love the slight powdery accord that lies in the base too. What a fine blend going on in this! Balance, clarity, everything is just right.

Wow just wow I have to say it guys This is amazing patchouli ever I bought it from zegna official shop it cost me arms and legs but its so nice love it When you spray in on your neck you got patchouli and peppery woodsy notes Wow so nice oh man you are gonna love it too Its so masculine and lovable perfect match with suits and formal times Love it so nice My rate is : Scent : 8.2/10 Projection : 8/10 Longevity: 9/10 Balance : 9.8/10 Value of money : 6/10 Thumbs up

Very earthy, spicy and natural smelling fragrance. I also find it quite fresh. Reminds me of being out in the woods, stepping outside in the morning and taking in all the smells of the wet grass, the water and the forest around me. Great scent and longevity, average projection but definitely the kind of scent that will hang in the air behind you. Not something I would wear every day though and that makes the price hard to justify.

jeffwithfrags, It's probably you. You are litterlly the only person who rates Zegna essenzza frags has bad. I have just found another of your 'expert" reviews on Zegna. It's oke to have a different opinion but when it's 10:1 you must start asking yourself some questions. If it's 25:1 maybe you should consider a different hobby. If it's 100:1 than you can be sure to need a nose job. I bet you don't own one of this line.

I've always liked patchouli though grown up a lot since I wore int in the late 70's LOL! This is beautiful quality with other notes that offset the patchouli just a bit.Only a few spray will last easy 7-10 hours and fill a room according to those who know me. Art in a bottle just wish it were cheaper. However Boss now make a similar Patchouli product in a similar bottle for half the price.

in the Zegna store I smelled this a few times and the first impression i received is a very distinct similarity to Coromandel by Chanel, which I have and love. If i were to have a personal sample of this fragrance to experience I would be able to provide a more detailed and in depth review. Still, it is enjoyable, but the resemblance is too close for me.