Initio Parfums Privés Paragon Extrait de Parfum is a sophisticated, aromatic and deeply comforting unisex fragrance that blends white sage, lavender, Palo Santo, bergamot and black pepper with creamy sandalwood and precious agarwood. Launched in 2022, Paragon is part of Initio's Hedonist Collection, a collection centred around fragrances designed to evoke balance, wellbeing and emotional harmony. Initio classifies Paragon as a Woody, Aromatic Extrait de Parfum.
Paragon opens with a fresh, aromatic combination of bergamot, white sage and lavender. The citrus brightness of bergamot brings freshness, while sage and lavender create a calming herbal character. Black pepper then adds a subtle spicy energy, giving the fragrance a vibrant contrast to its soothing aromatic opening.
At the heart, Palo Santo brings a distinctive smoky, woody and slightly creamy character, complemented by the fruity sweetness of plum and the warmth of black pepper. As the fragrance settles, sandalwood and agarwood (oud) create a smooth, rich and sensual base. The result is a fragrance that manages to feel simultaneously fresh, creamy, woody, spicy and meditative.
Notes Breakdown
Top Notes:
- Bergamot
- White Sage
- Lavender
Heart Notes:
- Plum
- Palo Santo
- Black Pepper
Base Notes:
- Sandalwood
- Agarwood (Oud)
The Scent
Paragon is an intriguing balance between fresh aromatic herbs and creamy woods. The lavender and sage provide a clean, calming opening, while plum adds a subtle fruity sweetness. Palo Santo becomes increasingly noticeable as the fragrance develops, bringing a distinctive incense-like woody quality before the creamy sandalwood and darker oud emerge in the dry-down.
Rather than being a traditional heavy oud fragrance, Paragon uses oud as part of a much broader composition. The result is smoother, more approachable and highly versatile.
Performance
Paragon is an Extrait de Parfum, giving it a rich and concentrated character. Community fragrance data describes its longevity as above average, with strong overall ratings for scent and longevity.
Its combination of aromatic freshness, creamy woods and subtle sweetness makes it particularly versatile. It can work beautifully as an everyday signature scent, while the depth of sandalwood, Palo Santo and oud gives it enough sophistication for evenings and special occasions.
RRP
Initio's UK website currently lists Paragon 90ml Extrait de Parfum at £285.
Gender Positioning
Unisex – designed for both women and men.
Paragon is particularly appealing to fragrance lovers who enjoy woody, aromatic, fresh-spicy and creamy fragrances, as well as those looking for a sophisticated alternative to traditional oud perfumes.
Why Buy Initio Paragon?
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Luxurious Extrait de Parfum concentration
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A distinctive fragrance from Initio's Hedonist Collection
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Sophisticated combination of Palo Santo, white sage and lavender
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Creamy sandalwood gives the fragrance a smooth, comforting character
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Agarwood (oud) adds depth without dominating the composition
- Black pepper provides an elegant spicy contrast
- Unisex and highly versatile
- Excellent choice for lovers of modern woody and aromatic niche perfumery
- A great fragrance to sample before purchasing the full bottle
