Chypre
Rigaud (1925)

RIGAUD – CHYPRE (1925)

Rigaud opened its doors in 1852 and lasted in its initial phase through the 1940s. Rigaud's widow took over running the business in 1902 and his son Henri continued the tradition in 1910. Rigaud is known primarily for being the first perfumer to search out and use exotic oils for “new” perfumes. He was the first to present an Ylang Ylang in 1869 and his Kananga, an exotic discovered in Japan, was an early hit. His Air Embaumee was another.

Rigaud's grandson continued to re-invent the brand into the 21st century. Among its innovations was the scented candle, inaugurating the home fragrance industry. Rigaud is still in production today.

Their Chypre is a masterful blend of notes, including bergamot, but mainly base, such as oak moss, patchouli, labdanum/cistus. It is mossy, yes, but not pungently so. The florals are very light, jasmine being the only one I am able to detect. The labdanum/cistus note offers a light amber touch.

My overall impression is one very close to the Chanel No. 5 experience, sweet, bright and radiant. The exact scent is different, but not that different, very close in type. There is no harshness whatsoever to this chypre. It is light, but also has depth. A lovely find.