Roger & Gallet Santal EDT Original Formula 1978

Bergamot, Lavender, Lime, Lemon.
Aniseed, Tarragon, Caraway, Orange Blossom.
Leather, Sandalwood, Patchouli, Cinnamon, Tonka Bean, Basil, Oakmoss.

As a sandalwood fan, I'm always game on picking up a bottle of something I've never owned before. That goes double for a NOS with Box.

Now, if you happen to like your sandalwood slightly spicy, dry and a tad austere, you will undoubtedly enjoy this. Personally, I like creamy sandalwood interpretations the most, but I do have days where sparser is better. In spite of this being an Eau de Toilette, it wears close. It reminds me of Compania Delle Indie's Legno di Sandalo quite a bit; not only in aroma, but how it wears.

For whatever reason, I like wearing classics like this on gloomy, overcast or rainy days. Chalk it up to personal quirks. The scent itself isn't depressing, so don't read too much into that. It happens to be one of those fragrances that seem to "fit" days such as that,

Santal has minimal development as the wearing ensues. I expected as much. Once the base accord reveals itself, it's a subtle turn of events that unveil a soft rendition of leather, basil and tonka bean on my skin. For the first 30 minutes or so however, a classic accord of edgy citrus accented with Tarragon is prevalent. The mild licorice quality hangs around into the base and drydown, which happens to be a nice touch.

All in all, Santal is a nice acquisition that has low to moderate sillage, but slightly better longevity at about 4 hours. This has a classic feel and would work well in an office or close quarters setting. Thumbs up from Aromi and as always, a sample wear is recommended.