Acquired

Ermenegildo Zegna 2026 EDT

U ££££

Il Sottobosco

by Fabrice Pellegrin

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Ermenegildo Zegna Il Sottobosco is an Eau de Toilette launched in 2026, created by Fabrice Pellegrin. Il Sottobosco opens with Pink Pepper, settles into a heart of Carrot Seeds, and dries down to a base of Patchouli. Ermenegildo Zegna's Il Sottobosco carries an Acquired verdict, a powdery-led wear.

This is a bold, modern take on earthiness that won't be for everyone. It's a divisive scent, with some finding it a unique masterpiece and others completely turned off by its 'wet soil' vibe. Definitely sample first.
  • Calm
  • Classic
  • Sophisticated
  • Relaxed
  • Elegant
Il Sottobosco Eau de Toilette bottle

Profile

Composition

Timeline

Showing: Overall Blend

Performance

Longevity
Long (6-10h)
Projection
Moderate
Intensity
Strong

Mood

Mood Energising
Calming
Character Playful
Serious
Sentiment Uplifting
Brooding

When To Wear

Best Seasons

Best For:
Fall

An autumn-weather scent at heart - warm leaves and shorter days territory.

Best Occasions

Best For:
Casual
Also Works:
Date Formal

Given its subdued nature and lack of overtly 'pushy' projection, this scent fits well in casual or date settings where subtlety is appreciated. While it could work in an office if applied lightly, its earthy, niche character might be too unusual for some formal events.

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Layer

Building a fragrance wardrobe? See what layers well with Il Sottobosco Eau de Toilette - the best pairings, where to apply each, and how the blend scores.

Where to buy

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About

Il Sottobosco opens with an almost mineral-like pink pepper, quickly giving way to carrot seeds that lean into a surprisingly earthy, humus-like texture. The heart is all about damp forest floor and flinty moss, rounded out by a soft, slightly powdery patchouli in the base. It’s an unusual journey through cool, wet undergrowth, grounded by subtle woody and musky nuances, with nary a sweet note in sight.