Santal 33

Santal 33. Ubiquitous. Polarizing. Still relevant. The opening is a blast of pickle juice, which, let’s be honest, is the cedarwood-sandalwood accord playing tricks on your nose. Floral notes attempt to soften the initial shock, aiming for androgyny, but the dry woodiness persists. It’s a fragrance that announces itself with an unapologetic presence.

The dry down offers a slightly softer, more approachable version of the opening. The harsh edges smooth out, revealing a creamy, almost lactonic sandalwood. It’s still wood-forward, but less aggressively so. Think sun-baked leather and a hint of violet. Longevity is impressive, easily clocking in at 8+ hours with moderate sillage. You’ll smell it on yourself, and so will everyone else within a few feet.

While the quality of ingredients is evident, the prevalence of Santal 33 makes it difficult to ignore its trendiness. Its distinct character is also now easily copied. The scent profile has become a shorthand for “cool,” which ironically undermines its initial iconoclasm.

Verdict? Santal 33 is a solid fragrance with excellent performance. But its popularity has diminished its allure. If you’re looking for a unique, sandalwood-centric fragrance, there are more intriguing options available. Santal 33 is a victim of its own success, becoming a victim of its own success.