SOTE: Zaharoff 2nd Soul · Brotherhood Of Scent

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Sep '25 (edited) • SOTD 🍊

SOTE: Zaharoff 2nd Soul

Zaharoff 2nd Soul is, without question, my favorite fragrance from the house of Zaharoff. Released in 2022 as part of the exclusive ZedCreators Collection, this scent is a modern fougère that masterfully balances freshness, spice, and depth, making it a standout in my collection. Crafted by perfumer Vincent Kuczinski, 2nd Soul captures a timeless yet contemporary masculine elegance, with a complexity that unfolds beautifully over hours of wear. It’s the kind of fragrance that feels like it was made for someone who appreciates both tradition and innovation in perfumery.

The scent opens with a vibrant and invigorating burst of bergamot, crisp and citrusy, paired with the aromatic bite of juniper and a warm, boozy rum note that immediately sets it apart. This top layer is spiced with cardamom and nutmeg, adding a lively, almost effervescent quality that feels fresh yet intriguing. As it evolves, the heart reveals a rich, smoky tobacco accord, softened by the subtle floral touch of jasmine and deepened by the resinous warmth of myrrh. This combination creates a captivating middle phase that’s both bold and refined, evoking images of a well-dressed gentleman in a dimly lit lounge, exuding quiet confidence.

The drydown is where 2nd Soul truly shines, settling into a luxurious base of patchouli, suede, and cedar. The suede note, in particular, gives it a smooth, leathery warmth, while the patchouli adds an earthy, slightly sweet edge, and the cedar provides a clean, woody backbone. This final stage is smoky, sophisticated, and lingering, with a modern fougère vibe that nods to classics like Creed’s Bois du Portugal but feels entirely its own; less barbershop, more cosmopolitan.

What makes 2nd Soul even more special is its exclusivity. Limited to just 500 bottles worldwide, it’s a fragrance that’s as elusive as it is exceptional. Tracking down a bottle was no small feat; its scarcity has made it a prized possession in many a collection. The sleek, minimalist bottle design, with its nod to Zaharoff’s sartorial heritage, only adds to the allure, making it feel like a rare piece of art. Every time I wear it I’m reminded of how fortunate I am to have secured one. Not just a fragrance but a fleeting moment in perfumery history. The sillage is moderate but noticeable, and the longevity is impressive, easily lasting 8–10 hours on my skin. It’s a scent that draws compliments without overpowering, striking a perfect balance between bold and refined.

In a world where fragrances often feel mass-produced or overly trendy, Zaharoff 2nd Soul stands out as a labor of love, a limited-edition creation that embodies passion and craftsmanship. Its rarity, limited to 500 bottles, only heightens its mystique, making each spray feel like a privilege. If you ever come across a bottle on the secondary market, don’t hesitate; this is a fragrance that lives up to its name, capturing the soul of both its creator and its wearer. For me, it’s not just a scent it’s an experience, one I’ll cherish as long as my bottle lasts.

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