I've got quite a few Jaguar fragrances in my wardrobe, namely all of the Classic line, and I was looking for ultimate Classic Chromite when I came across Signature of Excellence. Initially, I was attracted by the luxurious bottle, the heavy glass bottle in graduated green, with a silver plate and cap, and then by the notes. I was so curious about what Palo Santo wood could have smelled like, I never heard nor smelt it, so I carelessly bought it blindly. When I got the parcel, and I opened the box, I didn't know what to expect. The official site put it in the woody family, but damn. It is so freaking good!
Jaguar Signature of Excellence opens with sparkling bergamot, and a touch of bright petitgrain. It is consciously blended with the indescribably pleasant, spicy, sweet aroma of freshly ground nutmeg, this one when freshly grated into mulled wine or eggnog, the spice's rich aroma fills many kitchens in December. Yep, it's a winter spice. Nutmeg, to me, is about warm, cozy kitchens, and it's about log fires. It's about drawing the curtains, opening a book, wrapping presents.
The cologne develops into something balmy, balsamic, and minty thanks to the Palo Santo, the sacred wood, which is part of the citrus family and has sweet notes of pine, mint, and lemon. The amazing aroma of this resinous wood is for spiritual purifying, energy cleansing, and soul healing. The exquisite wood note is enfolded in earthy, bitter, very masculine vetiver and balmy amber-like labdanum essence. On my skin, Palo Santo dominates the heart, whereas vetiver and labdanum are not outstanding and linger in the background.
The dry-down is smoky, bittersweet, musky, and the resinous incense mixes with roasted tonka and a gentle touch of musk, manly but not too animal. Ain't no much sweetness from the tonka, just a pleasant feel.
At last, Nutmeg and Palo Santo make this juice suitable for cold seasons, it works well during both fall and winter, the sillage is moderate and not offensive, and the longevity is above average. It is a day scent, perfect for the office or an aperò with friends before dinner.
-Elysium