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Scandal Gold
by Jean Paul Gaultier
Scandal Gold presents a bold and deeply sensual fusion of honey, saffron, leather, and cypriol oil, creating a fragrance with a pronounced animalic and woody core. The opening is marked by a sharp, slightly medicinal saffron and cardamom, joined by a honey note that is sweet but restrained—not cloying, as some note-takers observed. The accords develop into a rich, dry floral leather with rose and jasmine highlighting the golden warmth, while sandalwood and patchouli anchor the base with dry earthiness. The scent carries a certain brashness due to cypriol oil, which some describe as barnyard or oud-like, though it’s balanced by honey and floral facets. Longevity is moderate to strong, even surviving through a shower, and the sillage is moderate to strong, best suited for evening wear. It feels both luxurious and confrontational—more theatre than subtlety.
Pros
- +A compelling and wearable blend of honey and saffron, making it ideal for lovers of sweet, warm, and spicy aromas.
- +Excellent longevity and moderate-to-strong sillage, allowing the scent to project clearly throughout the night.
- +A satisfying evolution from spicy opening to a dry, floral-leather drydown, offering depth and character.
Cons
- −The cypriol oil gives a pronounced animalic or barnyard note that may be overwhelming or unpleasant for those sensitive to such accords.
- −Honey is present but not overpowering—it won’t be irritating for most, but heavy-handed balancers may find it too sweet.
- −The leather and patchouli base makes it unsuitable for daywear or warm seasons, best reserved for autumn and winter.