Vetiver

This Santa Maria Novella Vetiver is an uncompromising, high-contrast expression of raw vetiver, presenting a bold, dry, and earthy opening that feels almost medicinal and green—like a freshly dug root or a damp stone cellar. The scent evolves linearly, with the vetiver dominance fading after the initial nose-punch, giving way to a subtle, persistent woody and mossy base with hints of rosewood, patchouli, and vanilla. Sillage is moderate to strong, with a sullen, persistent drydown that lingers for hours. The fragrance is distinctly vintage in character—unapologetic, astringent, and isolated, more like a perfumed barbershop or apothecary than a modern designer scent. It's a linear, single-note journey that reveals facets of vetiver over time—camphorous, grassy, earthy, and very slightly sweet in the base. It's not for the faint-hearted: those who prefer polished, easy-scented vetivers (like Tom Ford Grey Vetiver) will likely find this too intense, albeit for fans of raw vetiver, barbershop accords, or vintage perfumery, this feels like a rare, well-crafted artifact of natural essences.