As soon as I submitted my preferences for the Awesome Smells exchange, I was worried. Being paired with me can be a bit overwhelming with my long spiels about all the things I like and things to buy. No soaps or candles. Something woody, earthy, herbal, fresh or marine. Et Cetera, et cetera. Would my Secret Santa bother at all? Then a few days ago I received a message from my Secret Santa saying I was going to receive a highly rated fragrance. Hmmm, cautiously optimistic?

Then I received the gift, and it's ...

Jo Malone's Wood, Sage & Sea Salt.

Yes! I love it, it's so calming. Thank you Secret Santa, this is an awesome choice.

And to give everyone else an idea of what this fragrance is like: Jo Malone's Wood, Sage & Sea Salt. Yup, the name captures the essence of this fragrance beautifully. My first impression is "ambrette" according to Jo Malone's website, and it is prominent for the first half hour or. Ambrette is a mellow flowery smell you would expect in something like a fabric softener, but this is SO MUCH richer in character and charm. I am now resting my chin near my wrist to have some more of those tranquil vibes. Next up is the lingering salty air. It's not that ozonic "marine" smell which is nice but not a real smell of the beach. The saltiness is a vinegary saltiness you get when you have been at the beach all day when you are hopelessly looking for a shower to wash the sand off yourself and your stuff. Followed by a clean "Marine" smell. The woodiness of the fragrance syncs with the saltiness and is always understated. That's it. There is not much to the smell profile of the fragrance, but it does what it is 110% lovely. A worthwhile fragrance to check out if are tired of heavy musks and sweet florals and other excesses.

And after receiving my gift, I too highly rate Jo Malone's Wood, Sage & Sea Salt.