Release Year: 2011
Notes: Cardamom, Violet Leaves, Papyrus, Leather, Ambroxan, Iris, Australian Sandalwood, Cedar.
Santal 33 is the legend, bestseller and a much desired gift. It owes its world-renowned status only to one person - Olivia Fleming, who wrote about it in The New York Times «The Perfume You Smell Everywhere Is Santal 33» . Before Le Labo fragrances were officially sold in other countries, Santal 33 was probably one of the main perfume souvenirs from New York. What makes it so special?
Its composition has an unusual sound. Natural sandalwood oil itself smells quite insipid, too weak and light, but its enveloping, muffling effect is known to everyone who has ever worked with it. However, in Santal 33, it seems that there is no natural sandalwood, and the semantic chord is built on the union of synthetic materials.
The sandalwood piece in the Le Labo composition is fresh, floral, transparent and impetuous. Despite its apparent lightness and finesse, it is remarkably stable, stable and diffuse. And this is the main reason why Santal 33 is so beloved. Perfumer Frank Voelkl (he created all the main fragrances for the brand) reinforced and slightly modified the woody part with something reminiscent of vetiver and leather notes. The leather here is classic and harmonious.
The floral part is supplemented with cardamom and violet leaves. It is they, in combination with some components of the rose, can remind us of the smell of cucumber pickles. And this is the main reason why Santal 33 is not understood and not loved.
Those lucky enough not to feel the salty-dill-pickled aroma of Santal 33 while wearing it comfortably - it is unobtrusive to the owner, but leaves an incredible trail of beauty behind it. Wanting to inhale and unravel it.