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Le Labo Santal 33 EDP

Le Labo Santal 33 Full Review – Do You Need It?

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Santal 33.

A unisex scent of the utmost quality.

Le Labo Santal 33 was released in 2011 and is based on sandalwood with light leathery nuances. It lasts 8 hours on the skin with above-average and consistent projection.

In this review, I will describe its smell and performance and if it’s worth it.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Yet, we only endorse fragrances we’ve personally used or are highly recommended by trusted peers. You can learn more about our Disclaimer & Disclosure here.

What Does Le Labo Santal 33 Smell Like?

The fragrance is special from the first start. Right off the bat, there is a dill pickle-like note. Yuck! A dill pickle? It is better than it sounds; it is a unique take on green and fresh.

If it still sounds terrible, it should be good to know that it is fleeting, gone within a few minutes. As the scent progresses, you’ll be pleased that Santal 33 EDP is still on your skin.

A heavy dose of sandalwood and cedar fills the void of vanishing dill. I found this combination to be particularly memorable as well as complex. Cedar is common among sandalwood colognes, but Le Labo has done something unique here.

Sandalwood and cedar remain the star of the show for the rest of the wear. Leather adds in equal parts to this combination in the base.

This trio emphasizes a dry and masculine nature. But it is not an amazing scent without balance.

Nuances of green dill linger, and spicy cardamom makes an appearance. With the dominant base notes, they add a diverse dynamic.

The official Le Labo Santal 33 Notes:

  • Sandalwood
  • Leather
  • Papyrus
  • Cedar
  • Cardamom
  • Violet
  • Iris
  • Amber

Santal 33 Performance

How Long Does Santal 33 Last?

The entire wear is never too loud and aggressive. On the skin, it lasts eight hours with above-average but consistent projection. Pushing out multiple feet for hours.

In general, many Le Labo scents and men’s fragrances will have poor performance or only project enough to leave a scent trail for a few hours. But not here.

When Should I Wear Santal 33?

Santal 33 is an all-season and occasion wear. It can get overpowering in the summer heat, but just dial back your sprays.

If you live close to the equator and have more of a “two-season” climate, then Santal 33 will be slightly less wearable for you.

The interesting part about the versatility is the dominant sandalwood note is sophisticated enough for formal occasions or dates. But still dressed down enough for running errands while still not being too much.

Does Santal 33 Smell Different?

The performance seems just right, but Santal 33 is still a decisive scent.

The opening dill pickle-like note can be off-putting for some. The sandalwood note in the base is pleasant but, when mixed with leather, can again come off as off-putting.

These few aspects don’t make this a bad scent but an acquired taste. However, if you’re reading reviews of Le Labo, I imagine you have the palette to push the boundaries.

Does Santal 33 Get Compliments?

Yes. But is this a compliment magnet? No. This is a much more alluring fragrance that invokes curiosity than makes you smell “sexy.” I have gotten a couple of compliments with this.

However, when you buy this scent, it is to impress people, not get compliments.

Le Labo Santal 33 Review
Besuited Aroma gives Le Labo Santal 33 a rating of 9.1 out of 10.

What is A Le Labo Santal 33 Clone?

The closest dupe is No.04 Bois de Balincourt Maison Louis Marie.

No.04 Bois de Balincourt is more wood focused and lacks a leather note. This is the biggest difference between the two. Both still retain the woody and powdery accords.

There are numerous Santal 33 clones because it is such a great fragrance. However, the one above is the most similar.

Is Santal 33 Worth it?

It’s easy to understand Santal 33 is a scent of craftsmanship. But is it worth it? On Le Labo’s official website, a 100mL bottle costs $322.

I love the smooth sandalwood aroma that dominates the scent. It also has a surprisingly versatile aroma. I wouldn’t call this a dumb reach, but it does have the performance as one.

The only reason I don’t call it a dumb reach is because of its sometimes decisive aroma. It’s undoubtedly quality, but will you and others around you be able to appreciate the notes in the bottle?

Something to think about before you purchase. In short, Le Labo Santal 33 is worth it but not a must-have.

Le Labo Santal 33 is a decent fragrance and is known for how good its sandalwood is. However, don’t limit yourself to Santal 33. Discover the best sandalwood colognes for men here.

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