by Penhaligon's
Sports Car Club presents a crisp, aromatic freshness with a sweet-woody core that feels youthful and gender-neutral. The opening features a sharp blend of pine, pink pepper, and eucalyptus, creating a medicinal, mentholated clarity that evokes both forest air and cooling balm. These cool notes are balanced by a warm, subtly sweet base of patchouli and ambroxan, which adds depth and a soft, skin-like persistence. The eucalyptus note is strong and clear, contributing a distinct camphoraceous sharpness rather than a medicinal heaviness. While the initial impression is bright and clean, the fragrance fades quickly, with no true sillage and only moderate longevity. Despite this, the scent remains vibrant and well-composed through its duration, offering a cohesive, balanced experience that feels more refined than expected given the controversial notes. The fragrance appeals to those seeking a clean, minimalist alternative to traditional fougères—something subtle enough for the office or daytime wear, and versatile enough for summer or mild spring climates. It shares a vibe with a more transparent, less dense version of a smoky vetiver or a modern aftershave, though its sweetness prevents it from being entirely austere. While some find it unremarkable or unimpressive, others describe it as refreshing, pleasantly balanced, and unlike any other in Penhaligon’s catalog.