by Matiere Premiere
Santal Austral by Matiere Premiere presents a creamy, velvety sandalwood scent that is both polished and unapologetically bold. It opens with a powdery, floral iris note that softens into a warm, slightly spicy wood core, where Australian sandalwood synergy is balanced by benzoin and tonka bean. The scent's body is gourmand-creamy with subtle lactonic and milky nuances, leaning more toward a sophisticated, downy comfort rather than a sweet dessert. Though some find it overwhelming due to its initial sharpness and synthetic edge—prompting reactions ranging from intense nausea to migraines—many praise its long, leathery drydown and exceptional longevity. It’s a scent of strong character that demands attention yet can be subtle and elevating when worn close to the skin. While some experiences describe it as cold, screechy, or even chemical, others envision it as a fragrant embrace—airborne and enveloping, like a cashmere blanket on winter skin.