Hindu Grass Nasomatto 2008 unisex 73

The Verdict

Hindu Grass is Alessandro Gualtieri's attempt to liberate patchouli from its traditional associations with dark, heavy, earthy compositions and reposition it as a warm-weather fragrance. Released in 2008 as part of the Nasomatto line, it merges the freshness of grass with patchouli's earthy character and tobacco smokiness. The concept is compelling, but the execution is marred by a surprising performance issue.

The fragrance has earned a loyal following among patchouli enthusiasts who appreciate its lighter, greener approach to the note. However, it has also drawn consistent criticism for its remarkably short longevity, which is difficult to reconcile with its extrait de parfum concentration and premium price point. Hindu Grass is a case of a brilliant idea that does not quite sustain itself on the skin.

What It Smells Like

Hindu Grass opens with a green, slightly camphorous burst that immediately signals its departure from traditional patchouli territory. Some detect leafy menthol and herbaceous qualities in the top notes, possibly cilantro or green herbs, that create a sense of freshness and vitality. The effect is of walking through tall grass on a warm day with the earth still slightly damp underfoot.

As the fragrance develops, the patchouli emerges as a sweet, clean interpretation that borders on a smooth vetiver quality. The heart reveals what one reviewer aptly described as green amber: warm, sweet, lightly woody with subtle greenness. The tobacco note adds a smoky dimension without heaviness. The base is earthy and natural, with the patchouli settling into a comfortable, skin-close warmth.

When to Wear It

Hindu Grass was designed for warm weather and succeeds in that specific context. Spring and summer are its natural seasons, when the green freshness of the opening and the lightness of the patchouli feel perfectly aligned with the temperature. This is one of the few patchouli fragrances that does not feel oppressive in heat.

Casual outdoor settings, garden events, and creative gatherings are ideal occasions. The fragrance has an artistic, unconventional character that suits environments where individuality is appreciated. It is too unconventional for conservative office settings but too fleeting for evening occasions where longevity matters.

Longevity & Projection

Performance is Hindu Grass's most significant weakness. Despite being an extrait de parfum, the fragrance begins to fade in less than three hours on most wearers. Some reviewers report even shorter lifespans, with one noting it disappeared in approximately twenty minutes. This is an extraordinary shortcoming for a fragrance at this concentration and price point.

Sillage is moderate when the fragrance is present, with a camphorous, thick patchouli that has a strong presence close to the skin but does not project far. The combination of short longevity and moderate sillage means Hindu Grass creates a pleasant but brief aromatic experience.

The Community Says

The community is split along a clear fault line: the scent itself receives praise, but the performance receives criticism. Those who love the concept describe Hindu Grass as a cool scent for making patchouli summer-loving and praise its natural, compelling patchouli quality. The green, herbal freshness is frequently highlighted as innovative and well-executed.

However, the longevity issue dominates many reviews. At the price Nasomatto commands, expectations for an extrait de parfum are understandably high, and Hindu Grass falls well short. Multiple reviewers describe the experience as briefly amusing but ultimately disappointing given the investment required.

Who Should Buy This

Hindu Grass appeals most to patchouli enthusiasts who want to experience the note in a new light. If you love patchouli but have always considered it a cold-weather scent, Hindu Grass demonstrates that it can work beautifully in warm weather with the right composition. Just be prepared for the fleeting nature of the experience.

The fragrance has been discontinued, adding rarity value for collectors. However, its performance issues make it a questionable investment for anyone who prioritizes longevity and value in their fragrance purchases.

The Bottom Line

Hindu Grass is a conceptually brilliant reimagining of patchouli for warm weather that is let down by disappointingly brief longevity. The scent itself is beautiful, green, and refreshingly original, but it vanishes from the skin far too quickly for an extrait de parfum at this price point.