Sandalwood Cologne

I have this version of the fragrance classic that is Sandalwood, out of curiosity this afternoon I managed to track down a department store that actually sold 'Egoiste' by Chanel (very rare in the UK). To my astonishment I could not differentiate between the two; their composition being as damn as near-identical as I have ever experienced to date!

Use sparingly. Very heady sandalwood, lemon and vanilla combo that can be extremely nauseating when sprayed too often. Worn in the right way it can be quite pleasant and aromatic, but I would prefer to layer this with something else than wear it on its own.

I work in Jermyn Street and several of my customers came in smelling of this as the Trumper shop is nearby. I even asked the people smelling of this whether they bought "Egoiste" by CHANEL as it is very very similar. If comparing the 2, Egoiste is more spicey and pungent in the beginning but dry down is very similar. Trumper's Sandalwood is more floral due to Jasmine content and allover more rounded and rich. I think it is also less expensive than CHANEL (but I could be wrong). I used to love CHANEL's "Egoiste" but I think "Sandalwood" is actually more pleasant and easier to wear.

Breaking down the four main elements I get from this fragrance. They all blend together quite nicely. 1. SPICES - This is a soft spice. A bit similar in style to Five O’Clock Au Gingembre from Serge Lutens in the opening. It is almost cozy spicy rather than blistering or pungent. And I get the impression of maybe nutmeg or cinnamon. 2. CITRUS - The citrus here isn’t overtly juicy. Rather, it is a nice lemony glue to accentuate and brighten the main scent profile. 3. FLORALS - The presence of lavender and a bouquet of other fresh florals provides the airy aromatic freshness of the fragrance. I have to say I don’t quite smell any rose. (There are probably people here who know more about specific flower smells than me.) 4. WOODY BASE - Oh God, it is really nice. Give it some time to come out! It gets better, and better, and better, and better as it dries. Its like a fat greasy sandalwood that smells so opulent and sweet; yet still remains civilized and respectful. Amber and leather is listed as well. I don’t get any resinous or animalic notes from this, really. I would hesitate to put this in an ambery or leather category. Rather, this is a fresh aromatic gentlemanly fragrance with a sweetened creamy base of luxurious and realistic pale woods. Leans toward the mature masculine direction but I think it is still easy wearing. Can elevate this to a suit and tie but just as easily wear with a clean white t shirt. Classy yes, pompous no. This is top shelf stuff. Smells like it was made by someone who really cares. One of my favorites.

Wow! This one is STRONG. Excellent longevity and projection. Smells like how I would imagine a British Gentleman would smell like (during the 50's - 70's), during the late Autumn/early Winter. Despite that description, I would not describe this as smelling dated. A little mature maybe, but not dated. Cloying when over-sprayed (which is easy given how strong this fragrance is). Main notes: Vanilla, lemon and a touch of sandalwood to my nose. This is a MUST TRY for powerhouse fragrance enthusiasts! :)