There’s nothing more exciting to me than the change of the seasons, particularly when the weather cools down and we move into the crisp days of fall. I’ve talked extensively about our beauty team’s favorite summer-to-fall fragrances and the scents we think will everywhere this season, but I haven’t taken the time to shout about my love for a brand that just screams fall to me. Trust me—if you haven’t tried at least one fragrance from Jo Malone, you’re missing out, especially once September rolls around.
I’m happy to report that the fragrance house has launched a new offering, and it’s so good. I’d definitely describe it as a woodier scent, but don’t let that discourage you if you’re a gourmand fan like me. The first time I wore this scent out, a total stranger stopped me at Starbucks and asked me what I was wearing. I’d say that’s a good enough endorsement, but if it’s not, keep reading! I’ll tell you why else I love this scent.
Jo Malone London
Hinoki & Cedarwood Cologne Intense
Key notes: cinnamon, hinoki wood clove, cedarwood, tonka bean
While I would normally describe my scent MO as sweet, fruity, and gourmand, my nose will sometimes surprise me. The entire Cologne Intense line from Jo Malone is downright intoxicating, but my all-time favorite is Myrrh & Tonka Cologne Intense ($160). That scent is the perfect combination of sweet, floral, and woody.
Hinoki & Cedarwood is similar in that regard, but it has a few different notes that are a bit richer. First, the notes of cinnamon and hinoki wood are the most distinct to me. Hinoki wood has a warm, rich, earthy, and spicy quality to it. If you’ve never smelled it, I’d say it smells similar to other woody notes like balsam and sandalwood but with a headier quality that’s sappier. The notes of tonka bean and cinnamon are what make this a nice choice that even gourmand lovers will appreciate.
The longevity on this one is also great. I wore it out all day over the weekend and could still smell it going strong eight hours later. Honestly, this is a testament to the entire Cologne Intense line. It’s my preferred line from Jo Malone because it tends to last a lot longer than the brand’s regular scents. The notes in each are stronger and richer, and they really cling to the skin. That’s why Myrrh & Tonka has been a favorite of mine for so long, and Hinoki & Cedarwood didn’t disappoint in this department either.
I know a lot of these fragrances aren’t cheap, but I will say that I think this one and many others from the Cologne Intense line are totally worth the splurge. Much like fragrances from Byredo and Parfums de Marly, these scents contain high-quality ingredients that really last on the skin. There’s nothing worse than purchasing an expensive perfume that doesn’t last—you won’t have to worry about that here!
For a few more of my favorite Jo Malone fragrances, take a peek below.
More Jo Malone Fragrances I Love
Jo Malone London
Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne
Key notes: ambrette seeds, sea salt, sage
This fan favorite from the brand is so fresh and aquatic. If you like smelling like an ocean breeze, this one is for you.
Jo Malone London
Myrrh & Tonka Cologne Intense
Key notes: lavender, omumbiri myrrh, tonka bean
Like I mentioned above, this is my other favorite fragrance from this particular line. I once read that Cynthia Erivo is a fan and knew I had to try it. It did not disappoint. Like Erivo said, it’s sweet and almost smoky in the best possible way.
Jo Malone London
Peony & Blush Suede Cologne
Key notes: red apple, peony, suede
This is more of a classic floral fragrance with additional notes of jasmine, rose, and gillyflower, but red apple gives it a juicy, fruity twist.
Jo Malone London
Velvet Rose & Oud Cologne Intense
Key notes: clove, damask rose, oud
It’s rosy, a bit musky, sophisticated, and rich without being too in your face.
Jo Malone London
English Pear & Freesia Cologne
Key notes: King William pear, freesia, patchouli
This is another sweet floral scent that has a hint of juiciness to it courtesy of King William pear. It’s definitely a lighter scent and doesn’t last as long IMO, but it’s beautiful all the same.
Jo Malone London
Scarlet Poppy Cologne Intense
Key notes: ambrette, scarlet poppy, tonka bean
This floral gourmand has a special note of scarlet poppy, a rare and vivid flower that grows in the heart of Hawaii’s tropical forest. You’re bound to smell unique when you spritz on even just a bit of this.