Our take
What does Samsara smell like?
Jean-Paul Guerlain created Samsara in 1989 around two materials, Mysore sandalwood and jasmine. The opening is the least known part of the perfume and the oddest. Tarragon brings a green aniseed note, while bergamot and lemon fade quickly. Then jasmine arrives, thick and almost lazy, like a flower left too long in the sun. Ylang-ylang rounds it out, and rose and carnation give it some spice. The base is the reason Samsara exists. The sandalwood is creamy and milky, like a hot almond drink. Vanilla, tonka and benzoin stretch it out for hours. You recognise the house's vanilla softness, woodier here than in Shalimar. Samsara is still sold. It has been reformulated, not least because sandalwood sourcing changed.
When to wear it
Winter and big evenings. One or two sprays: it projects far and lasts into the next day.
It belongs to the Oriental / Amber, Woody family. Samsara is one of 99 creations by Guerlain in our encyclopedia.
