Mysore sandalwood

What Does It Smell Like?

Imagine warm, creamy milk infused with sandalwood timber—that's Mysore sandalwood. It smells like polished wooden furniture with a buttery, almost vanilla-like sweetness underneath. There's a subtle creaminess reminiscent of coconut milk, yet it remains deeply woody and earthy. Unlike harsh woods that feel austere, this unfolds like expensive silk against skin: soft, slightly powdery, with a faint hint of incense smoke. It's the olfactory equivalent of aged cedarwood that's been left in a spice cabinet.

Origin & History

Mysore sandalwood originates from the Santalum album tree, native to southern India, particularly Karnataka's Mysore region—hence its name. The heartwood contains precious volatile oils rich in α-santalol and β-santalol, extracted through steam distillation. Harvesting requires maturity: trees must be 40-60 years old. Colonial demand nearly devastated wild populations, so synthetic molecules like Iso E Super now supplement genuine supplies. Today, true Mysore sandalwood remains rare and expensive, making it a luxury ingredient many perfumers reserve for prestige compositions.

In Perfumery

Mysore sandalwood functions as both a woody base and a refinement agent. It anchors fragrances with stability whilst elevating compositions through creamy elegance. Perfumers use it to add sophistication without heaviness—it bridges fresh top notes and darker base accords seamlessly, softening harsher materials whilst imparting its signature opulent warmth.

Pairs Beautifully With

Featured In 48 Fragrances