Myrrh & Tonka Cologne Intense

Myrrh & Tonka Cologne Intense by Jo Malone London delivers a rich, creamy, and deeply warm scent centered around almond, tonka bean, myrrh, and vanilla. It opens with a sharp, slightly medicinal lavender and myrrh that quickly softens into a sweet, gourmand base with notable almond and vanilla facets, creating a complex, almost dessert-like aroma. The scent projects moderately to strongly, with noticeable longevity—some users report it lasting over a day—the fullest effect when applied to clothing rather than skin. The fragrance has a clear, luxurious dryness reminiscent of dry winter air, with a quiet, inviting lushness that evokes a layered, well-weathered encounter with warmth and texture. It is widely perceived as unisex but leans masculine in application due to its deep, spicy depth and the dominance of the myrrh-almond duo, which some describe as bearing a resemblance to old-fashioned Carmex or a savory barbershop tonic. The scent is polarizing: while many find it beautifully composed, a significant number report the dry-down as unpleasant, with some describing it as synthetic, cloying, or even nauseating. The underlying lavender and myrrh notes appear to trigger strong reactions—positive on some, unpleasant on others—making it not universally beloved. However, its most consistent praise is for its strong presence and long-lasting quality, especially when worn on fabrics. Given its strong character and polarizing character, this is not a scent to buy blindly. It suits individuals who enjoy bold, layered, sweet-spicy fragrances and are comfortable with a perfumery that leans slightly gourmand with a strong natural base. It excels as a winter wear, particularly for formal, intimate, or evening settings, where its depth and quiet power are appreciated.