Legacy of Petra

The Verdict

Penhaligon's Legacy of Petra from the Trade Routes collection is one of those fragrances that the community has called massively underrated and probably the most misunderstood fragrance in the lineup. Composed by Natalie Gracia-Cetto in 2022, it takes the brave route of building a composition around licorice and fennel -- notes that immediately divide opinion -- and wrapping them in warm resins and creamy vanilla.

Now discontinued, Legacy of Petra has earned a quiet but devoted following among those who appreciate its unique herbal-oriental character. Those who connect with it describe a journey through golden sands and spice-laden air, while skeptics predicted its early discontinuation due to its unconventional profile.

What It Smells Like

The opening presents an aromatic burst of green tea, sharp fennel, and bright bergamot -- herbal, fresh, and somewhat medicinal. The fennel is immediately prominent and unapologetic, setting the tone for a fragrance that makes no attempt to be conventional.

The heart deepens into resinous territory with smoky frankincense, bitter myrrh, and sweet licorice creating a dry herbal concoction that reviewers liken to an exotic tea blend. The base resolves into creamy benzoin and warm vanilla with supporting woody notes, creating what many describe as a cozy licorice tea scent that gradually fades into a soft, fuzzy blanket quality -- warm vanilla with an edge of clean warmth. The licorice and fennel remain present throughout but are increasingly tempered by the sweetness of the base.

When to Wear It

Legacy of Petra is built for cooler weather. Its warm, resinous character with spiced tea overtones makes it ideal for autumn evenings and winter gatherings. It works beautifully at fireside dinners, cultural events, and intimate social occasions where its unusual herbal complexity can spark conversation.

Avoid wearing this in summer heat, where the heavy resinous and anise notes can become cloying. The fragrance needs cool air to breathe properly and reveal its nuanced layers.

Longevity & Projection

Performance is a genuine strength. Reviewers consistently report 8-10 hours of wear, with some noting they could still detect the fragrance the next day. The licorice and fennel project out a few feet for those standing close, while the vanilla, frankincense, and myrrh create a broader scent trail. Projection is moderate but confident -- this is not a shout-across-the-room fragrance, but neither is it a whisper.

The evolution is gradual and rewarding, with the herbal opening slowly giving way to the warm, sweet base over several hours.

The Community Says

Fragrantica reviewers note that the fragrance differs significantly from person to person. On some wearers, it is dominated by vanilla with barely noticeable aniseed notes, while on others the licorice and fennel take center stage. The Persolaise review examined Legacy of Petra alongside Penhaligon's classic Hammam Bouquet, situating it within the house's tradition of distinctive, sometimes challenging compositions. Man For Himself praised it as a refined addition to the Trade Routes collection.

Who Should Buy This

Legacy of Petra is for the fragrance wearer who loves licorice, anise, or fennel and wants a composition that celebrates these notes rather than hiding them. If you enjoy resinous orientals, appreciate frankincense and myrrh in your fragrances, and want something cozy and distinctive for cooler months, this discontinued gem is worth tracking down.

Skip it entirely if anise or licorice notes are a dealbreaker for you -- they are not supporting players here but the stars of the show.

The Bottom Line

Legacy of Petra proves that Penhaligon's Trade Routes collection harbored some genuine treasures among its releases. This warm, spiced, resinous composition built around licorice tea and vanilla deserved better than its early discontinuation. For those who appreciate its unique profile, it delivers excellent longevity and a cozy, distinctive scent experience that works beautifully through autumn and winter.