Creed Fragrance review
Creed Original Santal 2024 Review: Creamy Sandalwood
A creamy, cinnamon-kissed sandalwood that trades Creed's alpine austerity for velvet warmth.

In this review
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
The first spray opens with a bright, zesty bergamot that is immediately wrapped in a warm cinnamon and coriander embrace. Juniper berry adds a crisp, slightly gin-like freshness, creating a sparkling yet spicy introduction that lasts for the first 15 to 30 minutes.
As the top notes fade, the heart reveals a smooth, aromatic lavender that is both calming and refined. Orange blossom and jasmine add a subtle floral sweetness, while rosemary lends a green, herbal nuance. This stage is elegantly balanced, with the cinnamon still present but softened.
After 4 hours, the fragrance settles into a creamy, luxurious sandalwood base. Vanilla, tonka bean, and musk add warmth and depth, while ambergris provides a subtle, skin-like sensuality. The drydown is smooth, comforting, and long-lasting, with a soft woody trail.
Performance Dashboard
8-10 hours on skin, longer on clothing
arm's length; not a room-filler
moderate; leaves a refined scent trail
When to Wear
Pros & Cons
- Exquisite natural sandalwood
- Versatile and elegant
- High-quality ingredients
- Compliment-getting
- Smooth, creamy drydown
- Expensive
- Moderate projection
- Batch variations exist
- Not ideal for extreme heat
Price & Value
“Worth the investment for sandalwood connoisseurs who value quality over quantity.”
Reformulation History
Older batches (2005-2015) are often reported to have a richer, more pungent sandalwood and stronger projection. Post-2020 batches are slightly smoother, with more vanilla and a softer musk. No drastic reformulation, but vintage batches are prized by collectors.
Who It's For
Ideal For
- Lovers of creamy sandalwood
- Those who prefer refined, understated luxury
- Mature men and women
- Office-safe fragrance enthusiasts
Not Recommended For
- Fans of beast-mode projection
- Sweet gourmand lovers
- Budget-conscious shoppers
- Those who dislike cinnamon or lavender
The Family
Explore More
Similar Fragrances
Santal 33
Le Labo
Santal Blush
Tom Ford
Tam Dao
Diptyque
Santal Royal
Guerlain
Sacred Wood
By Kilian
Clone Alternatives
You May Also Enjoy
Royal Oud
Creed
Santal 33
Le Labo
Tam Dao
Diptyque
Santal Blush
Tom Ford
Egoiste
Chanel
Layering Ideas
- Layer with Creed Royal Oud to amplify the sandalwood-oud connection.
- Layer with a vanilla or tonka bean fragrance to enhance the creamy base.
- Layer with a light citrus or bergamot scent for a fresher springtime twist.
Fleurissimo
Bois de Portugal
Tobacco Absolute
Wild Vetiver
Elidaria
New Wild Vetiver