by Guy Laroche
Drakkar Noir is a classic fougère fragrance with a strong, aromatic core, noted for its fresh, clean, and slightly soapy character reminiscent of a barbershop or aftershave. Its opening features a burst of citrus, mint, and herbaceous notes—bergamot, lemon, rosemary, and lavender—giving an energetic, crisp sensation. This evolves into a complex blend of woody, leathery, and earthy notes, anchored by oakmoss, vetiver, patchouli, and sandalwood, creating a masculine, deep backdrop. The scent is perceived as bold, remarkably distinctive, and timelessly masculine, evoking nostalgic associations with the 1980s and 1990s, particularly among older generations, though some younger users find it a daring choice. The fragrance’s performance is varied—most users report moderate longevity, typically lasting 5–8 hours with consistent wear, although any modifier may find the sillage weak or unnoticeable, especially beyond the first few hours. Its projection is often described as moderate rather than explosive, making it suitable for both daytime and evening use, though far better suited to cooler climates like autumn and winter. Despite this, it is widely considered wearable, versatile, and a rare example of a fragrance that remains relevant even after decades.