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Le Labo Eucalyptus 20 is a meditative woody-herbal composition that evokes a Japanese forest temple rather than Australian eucalyptus groves, offering excellent longevity and a contemplative character that has divided the community between devotees and skeptics.
Le Labo Eucalyptus 20 arrived in early 2025 as the newest addition to the brand's Classic Collection, and it immediately sparked debate. The composition contains 20 ingredients, nearly all of which are terpenic, meaning they are volatile compounds derived from plants. This scientific approach to ingredient selection gives Eucalyptus 20 an unusually natural and earthy character.
One reviewer called it hands down the coolest perfume they had smelled in many years. Others found it too dense and woody for comfort. The consensus lands on the positive side, but with the important caveat that this fragrance demands adjusted expectations from anyone drawn in by its name.
Despite its name, Eucalyptus 20 does not smell predominantly of eucalyptus. In true Le Labo style, the titular ingredient plays a supporting role rather than leading the composition. What emerges instead is a dry, smoky, and woody fragrance built on hinoki woods, incense smoke, resinous herbal notes, and cedarwood.
Reviewers consistently describe the effect as evoking a Buddhist temple in a cool Japanese forest rather than a humid Australian forest. Olibanum and labdanum provide contemplative depth, while red thyme adds spicy warmth and hyssop contributes herbal sweetness with subtle anise undertones. Gurjun balsam and cedarwood create the woody foundation.
The fragrance is linear rather than dramatically evolving, maintaining its woody-incense character throughout its wear and eventually fading into tranquil woody smoke. Reviewer Ida Meister at Cafleurebon described it as an earthy, woody explosion of terpenic verdancy that smells very natural, woodsy, and herbal, even medicinal to a certain degree.
Eucalyptus 20 works best in cooler months and transitional seasons. Its woody density would be oppressive in summer heat but provides a contemplative warmth in autumn, winter, and spring. The fragrance suits creative environments, weekend leisure, and moments of quiet sophistication rather than formal events or nightlife.
Reviewers compare it favorably to Le Labo's Gaiac 10, Santal 33, and Vetiver 46, suggesting it occupies a similar niche as an understated daily companion for those who appreciate earthy, woody fragrances.
Longevity is one of Eucalyptus 20's clear strengths. Multiple reviewers report it lasting all day, lingering on skin from morning application through evening. Projection is moderate to close, described as not screaming its arrival but rewarding those who get close enough to notice. The Leave No Cologne Unturned reviewer noted it remains pretty muted and never becomes as grand as the temple imagery it evokes.
Basenotes and Fragrantica discussions reveal enthusiastic reception from woody fragrance fans alongside skepticism from those expecting a different experience. The comparison to Comme des Garcons Monocle Scent One Hinoki comes up frequently, with reviewers finding Eucalyptus 20 sparser and drier, while it is described as more aromatic and less earthy than Aesop's Hwyl.
One Cafleurebon commenter noted the fragrance proved too woody for them, requiring removal after an hour, highlighting that this is not a universally comfortable wear despite its quality.
Eucalyptus 20 is for those who already appreciate Le Labo's woody portfolio and want another contemplative, earthy option. Fans of Aesop fragrances, Comme des Garcons incense series, or Hinoki-based compositions will find a kindred spirit. Newcomers should sample first, approaching with the understanding that eucalyptus is not the star of this show.
Le Labo Eucalyptus 20 delivers a meditative, woody-herbal experience with impressive longevity and genuine artistic vision, but its misleading name and dense, incense-forward character mean it will resonate most strongly with those who already know they love this territory.
Consensus Rating
7/10
Community Sentiment
positiveSources Analyzed
5 community posts (1 Reddit) (4 forum)
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Cons
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This review is AI-generated based on analysis of 5 community discussions. Individual experiences may vary.