by Penhaligon's
Halfeti Cedar by Penhaligon's is a deeply woody, boozy, and fruity fragrance that leans heavily masculine, despite being marketed as unisex. The scent opens with a bold burst of rum, peach, saffron, and cardamom, setting a rich, spiced, and slightly sweet tone. The heart features cinnamon, dried fruits, immortelle, and Virginia cedar, creating a warm, Middle Eastern-inspired depth. The dry down is dominated by Atlas cedar, labdanum, and patchouli, with vanilla and tonka bean adding a soft, sweet grounding that prevents the fragrance from turning too dry or austere. The overall impression is of a luxurious, complex barrel of aged woods, dried fruits, and spiced rum — elegant and sophisticated, with a strong, lasting presence that lingers through the night. It’s notably long-lasting and projects well, especially in cooler months. While many find it comforting and inviting, some note a sour or unpleasant sweetness or unwanted acrid nuances that can make it challenging to wear. The fragrance performs best on cooler evenings, and while it can be layered with vanilla for softness, the base notes are bold enough to stand strong on their own.