The Dandy Eau de Parfum

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] The Dandy Eau de Parfum by Penhaligon’s has a very nice smell and crafted for those who enjoy a bold, nighttime fragrance. Designed with inspiration from whisky cocktails and art deco aesthetics, this eau de parfum combines notes of raspberry, bergamot, cedarwood, and smoky oak to create an intriguing scent. The blend delivers a playful, fruity opening with a zesty freshness from bergamot, followed by rich, woody undertones evocative of whisky barrels. This fragrance is appealing to those who enjoy sophisticated, slightly mischievous scents with a vibrant yet deep character. The packaging reflects its concept, featuring art deco-inspired designs in black and gold with Penhaligon’s signature bow tie, reminiscent of elegant whisky bottles. This could either be worn during the day to work or on a night on the town. My husband really enjoyed the smell of this.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Upon the first spray, The Dandy makes quite an impression. The opening is a burst of booziness paired with spicy woods, immediately drawing me in. The patchouli takes center stage here, but it’s not the dark, earthy, chocolatey kind—it feels bright, almost sparkling, with a “clear” quality that reminds me of citrus peel, textured with its little bumps, crooks, and valleys. The colors that come to mind? Rich browns, glowing golds, and warm ambers. As the fragrance develops, the initial brightness softens, and a mysterious woodiness emerges. It’s as though the scent invites you to lean in closer, to explore its hidden depths. The dry down is enveloping, like stepping into a dense forest of spicy, textured woods. It’s grounding yet keeps a touch of intrigue that holds your attention. Interestingly, while there’s a hint of sweetness here, it doesn’t feel fruity—it leans more toward the warmth of boozy woods, a subtle richness rather than a syrupy vibe. Longevity is where I found myself wanting more. The scent stayed on my skin for about four hours, and with such an evocative composition, I wished it lingered just a little longer. Overall, The Dandy is a refined and textured fragrance. It invites you into its world of clear, luminous patchouli and layered woods, offering a fleeting but memorable experience.