α-Santalol (alpha-santalol)[1] is an organic compound that is classified as a sesquiterpene.
As of 2002, about 60 tons of sandalwood oil are produced annually by steam distillation of the heartwood of Santalum album.
[2] Because of concerns about the sustainability of sandalwood tree cultivation, scientists have developed routes to α-santalol and β-santalol via fermentation, including using Rhodobacter sphaeroides.
BASF launched its version, Isiobionic Santalol, in July 2020.
This level is typically highest in S. album, S. paniculatum and S. yasi.