CYPRUS

When chypre notes embrace the senses, they become unforgettable.

A SIGNATURE OF CHARACTER

Chypre fragrances form one of the most iconic and refined olfactory families in perfumery. Born in 1917 with the revolutionary creation of Coty Chypre, they transcend convention and establish a new olfactory structure, at once complex, bold, and modern. Its name refers to the island of Cyprus, renowned since ancient times for its expertise in the manufacture of balms and ointments, rich in aromatic resins and precious essences.

Built around a legendary accord—oakmoss, bergamot, patchouli, and labdanum—chypre fragrances are distinguished by their highly codified olfactory architecture. The citrus freshness of the top notes is followed by a floral or fruity heart, before settling into a resolutely dry, woody, and slightly leathery base. This contrast between the initial brightness and the earthy depth of the base gives chypre its unique signature: sophisticated, enigmatic, and refined beyond genre.

The chypre family does not seek to seduce instantly, but rather establishes itself over time, like a subtle, intellectual, and assertive trail. It is particularly prized by lovers of compositions with a strong personality, both classic and indomitable.

OLFACTORY CONTRASTS BETWEEN WOODY AND CHYPREY FAMILIES

In the art of perfumery, two iconic fragrance families dominate the olfactory universe: woody and chypre. Although both draw their essence from nature, they offer radically different sensory experiences, each embodying a unique vision of perfume.

The evolution of the woody and chypre notes is clearly distinct. The former, from the moment they are applied, impose a constant presence, with dry and enveloping nuances that persist throughout their evolution. In contrast, the chypre notes reveal themselves slowly, unfolding a fascinating complexity, thus offering a constantly evolving olfactory experience.

The contrasts continue in the very structure of these families. Woody notes are expressed through dry notes, such as cedar or sandalwood, which provide a feeling of purity and serenity. Conversely, chypre notes combine the freshness of citrus with a subtle depth, dominated by oakmoss, patchouli, and labdanum, creating a refined and enigmatic composition.

Ultimately, while woody notes seduce with their steady warmth and immediate impact, chypre notes captivate with their delicate evolution and play of contrasts, where each note unfolds with sophistication. While woody notes impose a certain reassuring obviousness, chypre notes weave a complex and mysterious fragrance, reserved for those who know how to grasp the full subtlety of its structure.