Australian Sandalwood

What Does It Smell Like?

Australian Sandalwood is like stepping into a warm, creamy embrace. Imagine the soft, buttery warmth of freshly sanded wood mixed with a whisper of vanilla and a subtle sweetness reminiscent of warm milk and honey. There's an almost powdery, skin-like quality—not floral, but intimately soft. It lacks the sharp spiciness of Indian sandalwood; instead, it's gentler, creamier, with a faint nuttiness and a delicate, lingering warmth that feels like cashmere against your skin.

Origin & History

Australian Sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) grows in Western Australia's arid outback, thriving in harsh, sandy soil where few plants survive. The heartwood is steam-distilled to extract precious essential oil—a labour-intensive, slow process. The trees must mature for 15+ years before harvesting. Historically, sandalwood was reserved for royalty and sacred rituals across Asia. Australia's supply has become increasingly valuable as Indian sandalwood sources dwindled, making it a crucial ingredient for modern perfumery seeking sustainable alternatives.

In Perfumery

Perfumers prize Australian Sandalwood as a sophisticated base note and fixative. It anchors compositions with creamy longevity, lending depth and warmth without dominating. Unlike powdery iris or heavy musks, it adds soft sensuality and subtle sweetness. It's the ultimate "second lead"—enhancing other notes whilst remaining understated and elegant.

Pairs Beautifully With

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