Jean-Louis Scherrer Eau de Parfum

Jean-Louis Scherrer Eau de Parfum is a masterpiece Chypre that exudes pure class, grace and nobility, I have numerous backup bottles and have noticed that prices have gone sky-high, it reminds me of numerous perfumes yet still remains easily identifiable, considered classic and old-fashion by some, I still receive compliments. If you like Chanel’s 19 EDP, Creed’s Irisia, Aromaric Elixir by Clinique, you will love this. Hidden gem.

Scherrer depicts the 70s return in trend of the green-chypré which came about in the 40s. It achieves both classicism and elegance, albeit a little rough around the edges, a sort of rugged charm. It is driven hard and strong by an overdose of galbanum, which is at once sour and herbal as it is dry and grassy. The leafiness is met by a sun-warmed moss, dense and earthy, whilst a gentle soapy white floral facet lingers beyond. This perfume makes me think of dried herbs and freshly snipped flower stems, mixed into artisan soap by hand. It is clean, but does not hold itself in such high esteem, an easy wear for a fair price.

I can’t tell specific notes, but it makes me think of deep woods, herbs, spices, dark, mysterious and colder months. While I don’t go for this type of fragrance—I guess chypres—I think this is well made.

Am I the first here with a review of Jean-Louis Scherrer Eau de Parfum?! I guess thats because the EDP is very hard to find nowadays. But i did (!) after searching and searching. The first 30 minutes I sprayed the EDP I smelled Aromatics Elixer from Estee Lauder (also a masterpiece). But the story gets more interesting after that. The galbanum and the greeness of the classique Vent Vert from Balmain pops up and the colour green surrounds you totally. I also recognize the harsh and kind of bitter greeness of Vent Vert. The patchouli embraces it all with that classique and rich vibe that you find for example in Knowing from Estee Lauder and Cabochard de Gres. Yeah ofcourse I love this powerhouse. But what the EDP lacks and what the EDT owns: a breezy airy piny/ cypressy tone. If you really love Eau du Soir from Sisley because of that, than the EDT will maybe suit you better. But they have the same DNA. The EDP is more mature, deeper and complexer. Let's say that the EDT leans to Eau du Soir and the EDP leans to Aromatics Elixer. I know this sounds completely blunt but i hope you get the message when you don't know what to choose: the EDT or the EDP. Next day: I still smell it on my arms, the wonderful Jean Louis Scherrer Eau de Parfum. That's how strong it is. The drydown leans towards the dark green masculine. For me thats a good thing.

First thoughts - Jean-Louis Scherrer is a powerhouse of a fragrance. But that’s okay I love a bold perfume. I’m surprised this isn’t listed as unisex. To my inexperienced nose it’s earthy and woody. The rose and jasmine notes don’t lead this into floral territory. Reading about this fragrance I learn it is considered a masterpiece. One of the best chypres ever made. As a new fragrance wearer this vintage perfume seems intense and complex. I keep purchasing white florals so I am grateful for the opportunity to expand my fragrance knowledge.