Exaltolide Total is the lower cost (due to lower purity) form of this great musk from the early 20th century. Exaltolide Total can be used one for one in place of the more expensive version with virtually the same effect. The remaining text below describes both the total and high-purity versions. Exaltolide (and Exaltolide Total) is such a wonderful and versatile musk it has been in steady use since its discovery in 1930 first as a secret component of many great bases, but then directly in fragrances such as Jean Carles' masterpieces Tabu (1932) and Miss Dior (1947) — at around 0.35% with 3.5% each of Musk Ketone and Musk Ambrette. Exaltolide and Exaltolide Total are most often found in doses below 1% but can be effective at up to 8% and beyond as seen in Jasmin Noir (2008) by Carlos Benaim for Bulgari and Champs Elysées (1996) by Jean-Paul Guerlain and Olivier Cresp for Guerlain. Our Exaltolide Total is produced by its inventor Firmenich. They say that Exaltolide “adds depth and roundness to a wide variety of creations. It offers synergy on the bouquet of a fragrance. It has an especially sensual effect on skin. This [TOTAL] quality of EXALTOLIDE® is an extremely fine and elegant musk but more cost effective.” Odour: powdery, soft, animal (deer), tobacco, natural.
