Reviews of Drakkar by Guy Laroche
Few seem to realize that Drakkar Noir was actually one of the earlier "flankers" in existence (Magie Noire being another, as the flanker of Lancome's 1950 release Magie). The original Drakkar, a citrus aromatic in the spirit of its time, is one where it is safer to go with the latest version possible and hope for a well-preserved specimen, as this one I've learned has a reputation of going quite terpy and sour. I discourage anyone from trusting the notion that the oldest formulation is the one to seek as we are talking about nearly 50 year old bottles. The bottle I own was likely produced in the early to mid 1980s. I apply this as a general rule—vintage buying is a risky game, and finding a safe bet usually means seeking out the most recent formulations that still likely retain the character of the original.
Drakkar is notable in that in addition to its tart lemon, verbena and lavender opening that recalls Homme de Grès, it has a spectacular mastic-resin (reminiscent of the fantastic Sisley Eau d'Ikar), a discernible angelica root, subtle juniper tang, and a jasmine heart. It's green-resinous and warm-musky, accented with rosemary and pine needles. Its dry down is a bitter, quenching moss and cedar, accented by cinnamic tolu balsam, calmy expressive after its initial stages of vigor and radiance. This would appeal more so to those who have a yen for the barbershop style of aromatic masculines: its clean-shaving bracing quality may fall short of expectations of some statement fragrance like its preceding flanker. I however, find it delectable.
Drakkar is notable in that in addition to its tart lemon, verbena and lavender opening that recalls Homme de Grès, it has a spectacular mastic-resin (reminiscent of the fantastic Sisley Eau d'Ikar), a discernible angelica root, subtle juniper tang, and a jasmine heart. It's green-resinous and warm-musky, accented with rosemary and pine needles. Its dry down is a bitter, quenching moss and cedar, accented by cinnamic tolu balsam, calmy expressive after its initial stages of vigor and radiance. This would appeal more so to those who have a yen for the barbershop style of aromatic masculines: its clean-shaving bracing quality may fall short of expectations of some statement fragrance like its preceding flanker. I however, find it delectable.
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I've developed an appreciation for "old people" fragrances that I didn't have when I started. This is from an era of barbershop notes and projection. Drakkar has an citrus and Lavender opening, with moss and cedar dry-down. Great projection and longevity. I'd wear it occasionally for nostalgia, but not regularly.
Drakkar is an iconic piece of classic which conjures me deeply my youth as it was surrounded by "aromatic charming men" and disappeared impeccable class. Immensely virile and casual fragrance. Moss, jasmine and lavender (especially the latter) are the hits of this dynamic juice, so fresh and out going. The aromatic (pine/juniper/coriander centered) vibe is in here subdued in comparison with the follower (and market cracker) Drakkar Noir while in here I finally get more soapy (ambery) spiciness, muskiness and citrus. Anyway, there is a solid common basis shared by these two Guy Laroche's creations. The Drakkar's dry down unfolds jasmine, bergamot/lavender, patchouli and oakmoss in remarkable amount, overall soothed by soapy amber and a touch of leather. Anyway another hard to find gem with an immensely evocative power on me.
Pearl from the past. Lavender centered in one of the classiest possible ways. So sad it Has been discontinued. A wealthier relative is nowadays Sartorial by Penhaligon s, with enhanced complexity however.
another gem from the past should not miss in collezzione especially the powerhouse of good silage fan and a fantastic drydown, a citrusy very different, very very good 5/5
One of my all time favourites. A friend had a MAGNUM in his bathroom and I always took a dab or two..... or three...!!! I've always wondered who got that magnum when he passed away. It reminds me of fresh-mown hay, sweet, and clean. NOTHING like the very-artificial scent of its « ad-sales replacement, Drakkar NOIR which is OK, pleasant but not what I would wear. NOIR is too cold. Would LOVE to get my hands on a sealed bottle.
Drakkar (1972) is much like Drakkar Noir (1982) minus the extra kicks from Coriander, Juniper and some pine, I find. Although the pyramids made me expect something very different, this smells like the younger(!)brother of DN. I do not get the fresh start with such aplomb as I am used to from DN, or YSL Pour Homme, and also the dry down is mellower than it is with DN, and yet it lasts about the same five hours! I do not know why it reminds me of the tender Old Spice Lime which has been missed for years. I had to buy Drakkar blind as you can imagine with a scent that is so hard to come by nowadays. Even the more am I happy with what I received in perfect condition. I realize I would have praised DN just the same had it been unknown and hard to get until now!