Jo Malone London never ceases to exceed expectations. Every new perfume launch somehow tops the last and swiftly claims a top spot on my vanity. My first love? English Pear and Freesia, a crisp and countryside fresh blend (aka, the perfect scent escape for concrete jungle living). The people's Princess? Pomegranate Noir, a classic perfume that's equal parts rich, sweet, and citrusy with medicinal cloves and juicy pomegranates. The latest addition to the brand? A spiced citrus blend, bottling the festive season in one aesthetic vial... Allow me to introduce Sandalwood & Spiced Apricot Cologne.
Smelling as good as it sounds, the newly-launched Sandalwood & Spiced Apricot is full of warming notes that are perfect for the winter season. The heavyweights in question are as follows:
- Top note: Apricot–a fruity punch that is both juicy and soft, bringing a velvety quality to the fragrance on initial whiff.
- Heart note: Sandalwood—with its tempting creaminess and enticing warmth, this note enhances the fragrance's longevity.
- Base note: Vanilla—adds an enveloping and sensual warmth to the undertone.
That's not to mention the supporting acts (which are still very much impactful, may I add), spicy cardamom and nutmeg, woody labdanum, and herbal patchouli. Together, this arrangement rivals the comfort of a wintry walk in the woods followed by the warmth of a mulled wine by the fireplace. In other words: the beauty equivalent of pure festive bliss, and a masterclass in peak winter luxury.
Ultimately, this scent is for anyone seeking comfort and indulgence wrapped into one. It's fruity with a bit of bite, sweet without being saccharine, and perfectly spliced with peppery spice. Plus, it's a total compliment magnet. When you're wearing this, expect heads to turn the second you walk into a room.
Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
Lauren Balsamo is the beauty director at Cosmopolitan where she writes, edits, and produces all types of beauty content—from product reviews to personal essays and trend reports. She has covered beauty for more than a decade at Cosmopolitan. Follow her on Instagram.
















