Penhaligon's Castile

Castile is based on the famous Castile soap, or so I've read.

In having that soapiness, I would say it succeeds. I've tried to like Castile, and I don't want to disparage this fragrance because at first I did like it, very much in fact because it struck me as being very different, woody/floral and fresh.

It's not that I completely dislike it now, but my opinion on subsequent wearings has dimmed. Since it's from a sample I can't comment on packaging, atomizer, etc. The longevity is decent. The quality is average (but you won't find this on the bottom of any drugstore shelves, that's for sure), and the scent leaves a lot to be desired.

At the risk of sounding like a Basenoter here, I have to say, the whole thing just smells a bit . . . synthetic. But eh, whatever. It's not awful, and if you know someone who is into English stuff and you happen to visit Penhaligon's on a business trip detour, this might make a good gift to bring home.




...

This is a decent neroli with ample woods, citrus, and flowers. However, it is just decent. Castile certainly is the best of Penhaligons newest scents, but I prefer Floris Special no. 127 for this genre because it has more powder and better subtlety. To me, Castile smells the same from start to finish.

I had to give Castile another chance, as well. I dismissed it at first, to me it smelled too light and citrusy. However, I've given this fragrance a few more chances and it is now one one of my favorite rose heavy (rose light?) frags. I don't know why I dismissed it as being simple at first, the complexity is awesome despite the few notes. It is not "loud" whatsoever, but this scent has a very nice characteristic of having good sillage while at the same time remaining subtle. Lasts pretty much all day with decent application. A must try for any rose lover.