What does Lavandin smell like?
Lavandin smells like lavender, only blunter. It is herbal and clean, with a camphor edge close to eucalyptus. It has less floral sweetness than true lavender and fewer nuances. That is exactly why it is useful: it brings a clear, lasting freshness. On skin it holds longer than you might expect. The drydown stays aromatic and a little soapy.
Origin and production
Lavandin is a natural hybrid of true lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and spike lavender (Lavandula latifolia). It is almost sterile and is propagated from cuttings. Provence grows it on a large scale, notably on the Valensole plateau. Its essential oil yield is much higher than fine lavender's. The oil is steam-distilled from the flowering stems.
How perfumers use it
Lavandin gives fougères their frame alongside coumarin, moss and woods. It handles amber and sweet notes well and freshens them. Monsieur de Givenchy (1959) already set it in the heart of a classic cologne. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Petit Matin (2016) treats it as a morning cologne. Paco Rabanne Invictus Victory Elixir (2023) opens a very dense amber with it. Ralph Lauren Ralph's Club (2021) pairs it with clary sage.
How to wear it
Lavandin works all year. In summer Petit Matin can take four sprays. Invictus Victory Elixir is heavier, so keep it to one or two in the evening.