Cedar in Acacia by SCENTS OF WOOD presents a compelling woody aromatic experience, opening with a vibrant burst of spicy ginger, cinnamon bark, and a hint of green spice, immediately evoking the feeling of a sun-drenched forest. As it develops, the heart reveals a rich, aged cedarwood, softened and deepened by the unique influence of acacia resin, which imparts a subtle sweetness and exotic warmth. This central woody core is beautifully complemented by dry spices and a touch of orris, adding a refined, earthy texture. The fragrance settles into a comforting and long-lasting drydown of warm olibanum, ambery woods, and a whisper of smoky vetiver, creating a grounded yet sophisticated aura. It's a scent that feels both primal and polished, perfect for those who appreciate authentic, deep woody compositions. Perfumer: Pascal Gaurin
Scent Profile
Woody
Spicy
Resinous
Smoky
Earthy
Warm
Notes
Top Notes
Ginger Oil
Cinnamon
Cypriol Heart
Black Pepper
Incense
Green Spice
Middle Notes
Aged Cedarwood
Acacia Resin
Dry Spices
Orris
Base Notes
Olibanum
Cedramber
Musk
Amber Woods
Smoky Vetiver
About SCENTS OF WOOD
Scents of Wood is a niche fragrance house founded in 2019-2020 by Fabrice Croisé, a French perfume industry veteran now based in Utah, inspired by forests, trees, and the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku or 'Forest Bathing.' The brand's unique philosophy centers on capturing L'Âme du Bois—the soul of wood—through aging organic cane alcohol in recycled wooden barrels and blending with rare woody essences in collaboration with IFF perfumers, creating deep, evocative scents with a woody backbone for fragrance enthusiasts seeking nature's mystery.
Pascal Gaurin is a French perfumer who studied chemistry at Pierre & Marie Curie University in Paris and graduated from ISIPCA, the prestigious perfumery school in Versailles. Recruited by IFF (International Flavors & Fragrances) upon graduation, he began his career as a trainee and junior perfumer in Hong Kong for three years before relocating to IFF's New York headquarters, where he works as a Senior Perfumer. Known for his signature style of dense essences including resins and deep woods, Gaurin approaches perfumery as an olfactive storyteller, collaborating with brands to translate their narratives and emotions into fragrance creations, including his notable work on Noisette for Maison d'Etto.
Reviewers generally find Cedar in Acacia to be a sophisticated and confident woody fragrance, often described as a modern take on a forest scent. Many appreciate its smooth development and realistic cedar notes, though some find it to be a lighter wear.
Pros
Performance excellence: This fragrance offers moderate to good longevity and projection, staying with you throughout the day and evolving intimately as it warms on the skin.
Quality composition: The cedar note is frequently praised for being realistic and refined, avoiding the dusty or old chest aroma, and the cinnamon is noted for its smooth, non-sharp quality.
Versatile appeal: Many find it suitable for both casual and formal occasions, making it a versatile choice for those seeking a signature scent with presence and depth.
Cons
Situational drawback: A few reviewers have described it as smelling more like a 'woodshop with a lot of shellac' rather than a natural walk in the woods, indicating it might not appeal to all preferences for woody scents.
Specific limitation: While generally praised for performance, some users have noted it can be 'too light' and 'doesn't stay very long,' suggesting potential variability in individual experience or skin chemistry.
Comparisons
Reminds reviewers of Living Colors by The House of Oud: Some detect a similarity in the drydown, despite having few common notes, suggesting a shared sophisticated woody-ambery character.
Similar to Roja Elysium in appeal: While not a direct scent match, the type of person who enjoys Roja Elysium might also appreciate the refined and confident aura of Cedar in Acacia.
Vibe & Emotions
Sophisticated and confident: This scent is often associated with a refined and self-assured demeanor, making it suitable for those who want to project quiet strength.
Meditative and earthy: It evokes a sense of grounding and serenity, like an encounter with nature's boldest elements, ideal for moments of reflection.
Warm and sun-kissed: The fragrance is described as having the warmth of a sun-kissed embrace, bringing to mind memories of summer and a luminous, seductive feeling.