Santal Majuscule.
A unique sandalwood cologne.
Serge Lutens Santal Majuscule was released in 2012. It is based on woods, spices, and roses. It lasts eight hours on the skin with moderate projection. In this review, I will describe its smell and performance and if it’s worth it.
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Table of Contents
What Does Serge Lutens Santal Majuscule Smell Like?
This is the perfect balance between lightness and darkness. It never gets so heavy that it’s hard to wear. On the flip side, it has enough depth to last and project.
If you’re into simple and linear, you’ll enjoy this. Sandalwood, Rose, and Cacao are the focal points for the entire wear. Enveloped by smooth sandalwood, rose and cacao are by far and wide, the most prominent in the opening. Together, they make a gourmand chocolate accord.
After a few hours, the sweet rose notes make their way into the background. Dark and powdery aspects add to the chocolate accord. The gourmand-ness is still present but shifts towards cocoa-focused.
This makes the note slightly bitter. Then comes the best part: a dominant sandalwood backbone adds to the chocolate accord. It is a pleasant woody chocolate aroma for the rest of the wear.
Serge Lutens Santal Majuscule notes:
- Sandalwood
- Cacao
- Rose
Performance
Santal Majuscule lasts eight hours on the skin with moderate projection. It is a very wearable scent as it pushes out an arm’s length at its peak and recedes but remains present for the rest of the wear. This performance is with four sprays.
This is fall and winter wear. Even though the projection is subtle, the cacao gets overwhelming. Have you ever eaten a chocolate bar on a hot summer day and got sick? That’s what this fragrance does in the heat as well.
As for occasions, it is for special events. The projection is perfect to make your presence known but not overwhelm. I tried it in close-quarter settings, but it becomes nauseating after an entire day in a confined space. It’ll shine for formal events and dates because of its alluring blend of notes.
Lastly, mass appeal and likability are average. This is a fragrance for collectors. It takes a mature palette to appreciate Santal Majuscule. Even though it is quality and alluring, it’s intense and sharp. You love it or hate it.
Final Words
There aren’t any Santal Majuscule clones. Based on fragrantica, a few other Serge Lutens fragrances are similar but not highly rated as a dupe. Unfortunately, I don’t have experience with them, so I can’t say yes or no.
Is Serge Lutens Santal Majuscule worth it? A sample or decant. I enjoy the tasteful aroma with a unique blend of notes, but it’s not for everyone. This is a nice fragrance to have but only for the truest collectors.
Santal Majuscule is an excellent cologne and is known for its sandalwood. Yet, don’t just limit yourself to Santal Majuscule. Check out the best Sandalwood colognes for men. All are primed to coat you in a comforting woody aroma; you might just find your signature scent.