This is a sample stick of Gokula's Gaura Absolute Sandalwood, which is now sold as Gokula's Connoisseur Sandalwood & Vanilla, and as Primo Sandalwood, all sold by Mark of Gokula. All the sticks are made by Haridas Madhavdas Sugandhi of Pune (HMS) who notably use vanilla crystals as a scent amplifier which results in a distinctive sweet vanilla scent in most of their products.
My understanding (and I'm still learning so any information or corrections are welcome), is that vanilla crystals, halmaddi, and DEP are all used in Indian incense to make the scent stronger and last longer. The most common (and cheapest) is DEP, the next most common is halmaddi (though use of halmaddi is increasing due to market interest) followed by vanilla crystals. The use of each has its problems, though I tend to prefer the use of vanilla crystals as it usually has the least impact on the overall fragrance experience, and can add a gentle sweet vanilla scent to the mix. Haridas tend to use a lot of vanilla, such that it becomes a defining characteristic. Sometimes, as here, the vanilla becomes too dominating and cloying. I find Mark's decision to give his Connoisseur packet the name Sandalwood & Vanilla both wise and helpful. What I am curious about is if vanilla crystals and halmaddi are used together. And if so, why? If the intention is to use them to amplify the main scent, then would using both increase the amplification or result in a confusion? I ask because it seems to me that both are being used here. There is a mild and subtle awareness of halmaddi in this stick, along with a huge awareness of vanilla. And the result is not a strong, clear, and beautiful sandalwood scent, the result is a meld of vanilla and sandalwood, with complimentary notes in between such as mint and cedarwood.
This is a likeable incense - it has a cleansing and largely neutral character; it doesn't evoke any emotions or ideas in me, so would serve mainly as a pleasant though neutral room cleanser. I find the vanilla to be like sugar frosting on a bun - rather simple, distracting, and not entirely to my taste. I like a little bit now and again, but iced buns are not something I'm that keen on.
My understanding (and I'm still learning so any information or corrections are welcome), is that vanilla crystals, halmaddi, and DEP are all used in Indian incense to make the scent stronger and last longer. The most common (and cheapest) is DEP, the next most common is halmaddi (though use of halmaddi is increasing due to market interest) followed by vanilla crystals. The use of each has its problems, though I tend to prefer the use of vanilla crystals as it usually has the least impact on the overall fragrance experience, and can add a gentle sweet vanilla scent to the mix. Haridas tend to use a lot of vanilla, such that it becomes a defining characteristic. Sometimes, as here, the vanilla becomes too dominating and cloying. I find Mark's decision to give his Connoisseur packet the name Sandalwood & Vanilla both wise and helpful. What I am curious about is if vanilla crystals and halmaddi are used together. And if so, why? If the intention is to use them to amplify the main scent, then would using both increase the amplification or result in a confusion? I ask because it seems to me that both are being used here. There is a mild and subtle awareness of halmaddi in this stick, along with a huge awareness of vanilla. And the result is not a strong, clear, and beautiful sandalwood scent, the result is a meld of vanilla and sandalwood, with complimentary notes in between such as mint and cedarwood.
This is a likeable incense - it has a cleansing and largely neutral character; it doesn't evoke any emotions or ideas in me, so would serve mainly as a pleasant though neutral room cleanser. I find the vanilla to be like sugar frosting on a bun - rather simple, distracting, and not entirely to my taste. I like a little bit now and again, but iced buns are not something I'm that keen on.
Date: Feb 2024 Score: 28
See also:
 |
| (HMS) The Dhupa Collection Bhaktivedanta Manor Sandalwood Incense Sticks March 2024 - Score: 28 |
No comments:
Post a Comment
Please leave a comment: