Sandalwood, Australian Essential Oil
Sandalwood, Australian Essential Oil
Australian sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) is the native sandalwood of Western Australia, a distinct species from the Indian Santalum album that has dominated the global sandalwood trade for centuries. The two are related but meaningfully different in aromatic character: Australian sandalwood is earthier, drier, and slightly spicier than the creamy, milky smoothness of Mysore-type album oil, with a balsamic warmth that makes it immediately recognisable as sandalwood while having its own distinct personality. As Indian sandalwood has become increasingly restricted and expensive, Australian spicatum has grown considerably in recognition and standing as a fine fragrance ingredient in its own right rather than simply a substitute.
This premium grade carries an alpha-santalol content above 25%, which is above average for the species and the key quality indicator for aromatic richness and longevity. The tree takes 15-25 years to accumulate the heartwood oil, and this particular supply chain is operated with a 50% Indigenous Australian ownership stake, maintaining a meaningful connection between the trade and the communities for whom the tree holds deep cultural significance.