Hermes Fragrances: A Journey Through the Maison’s Identity

Hermes, renowned for its exquisite leather goods and fashion accessories, has also established itself as a leader in the world of fragrance. Their olfactory journey began in 1951 with the creation of ‘Eau d’Hermes’, an eau de toilette inspired by the delicate aroma lingering within their iconic bags. This fragrance, along with ‘Rouge Hermes’ and ‘Calèche,’ became part of their founding collection, a testament to the maison’s enduring legacy.

The second chapter of Hermes’s fragrance saga unfolded in 2003 with the introduction of ‘Un Jardin sur le Nil’ (Garden on the Nile), crafted by the visionary perfumer Jean-Claude Ellena. The overwhelming success of this fragrance led to Ellena’s appointment as Hermes’s first exclusive perfumer in 2004. During his tenure, he spearheaded the creation of the esteemed ‘Jardins’ (Gardens) series and the ‘Hermesence’ collection, each garnering widespread acclaim for its artistry and sophistication.

Christine Nagel, stepping into the role of the second exclusive perfumer, continued the legacy by collaborating with Ellena on ‘Galop d’Hermes,’ a fragrance that captures the essence of equestrian elegance. Her own creations have introduced a fresh perspective, with the ‘Twilly’ series designed to resonate with Gen Z and the innovative ‘L’ombre des Merveilles,’ showcasing a new and alluring olfactory landscape while staying true to the Hermes spirit.

Undeterred by fleeting trends or marketing strategies, Hermes fragrances are meticulously crafted by skilled perfumers using only the finest ingredients. Each scent is an expression of their vision, resulting in unique and captivating fragrances that transcend gender and age.

Here, we delve into 19 exceptional women’s and unisex fragrances, including the latest addition to the Hermes lineup, the captivating ‘バレニア’ (Baalenia), featuring the house’s first-ever chypre note.

Eau de Parfum ‘バレニア’ (Baalenia)

This groundbreaking fragrance marks Hermes’s foray into the world of chypre. It opens with a vibrant blend of ginger lily, its sweet floral notes interwoven with the spicy warmth of ginger. Red berries and the juicy sweetness of Miracle Berry add another layer of depth.

The fragrance then gracefully transitions, revealing the comforting presence of oakwood and earthy patchouli. The result is a mesmerizing evolution, a harmonious dance of citrus, floral, and woody nuances.

This innovative chypre composition is a testament to Christine Nagel’s artistry, showcasing her ability to blend unexpected ingredients into a captivating olfactory experience.

Key Notes:

Ginger lily, Miracle Berry, oakwood, patchouli

Fragrance Family:

Chypre

Intensity:

★★★☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

A day when you’re debuting a new leather bag.

Sizes and Prices:

60ml ¥18,370, 100ml ¥24,860

Eau de Parfum ‘Twilly d’Hermes’

This fragrance is a vibrant celebration of youthful exuberance and free-spirited living, tailored for Gen Z. It features a distinctive blend of zesty ginger, the rich floral notes of tuberose, and smooth sandalwood, creating a unique and exhilarating olfactory experience. This playful and optimistic fragrance is a perfect talisman for embracing life’s adventures.

Key Notes:

Ginger, tuberose, sandalwood

Fragrance Family:

Floral Spicy Woody

Intensity:

★★★☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Marking a new beginning, like starting university or a new job.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥11,440, 50ml ¥16,060, 85ml ¥22,660

Eau de Parfum ‘Twilly d’Hermes Eau Poivrée’

The second installment in the Twilly line, this fragrance embodies the fearless spirit of youth, featuring a captivating blend of the invigorating spice of pink pepper, the delicate sweetness of rose, and the earthy depth of patchouli. This woody facet, distinct from its predecessor, offers a unique and captivating olfactory journey.

Key Notes:

Pink pepper, rose, patchouli

Fragrance Family:

Floral Spicy Woody

Intensity:

★★★☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Lifting your spirits when feeling down.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥11,440, 50ml ¥16,060, 85ml ¥22,660

Eau de Parfum ‘Twilly d’Hermes Eau Ginger’

This vibrant addition to the Twilly collection introduces a new level of sparkle and joy. It features a refreshing and watery sweetness from peony, reminiscent of rose. The spicy warmth of ginger, infused with a touch of sugar, adds an intriguing sweetness. This energetic fragrance is completed with the crisp, clean scent of cedarwood, resulting in a bright and energizing olfactory experience.

Key Notes:

Sugared ginger, peony, cedarwood

Fragrance Family:

Floral Woody

Intensity:

★★★☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

A day filled with fun and adventure, like a trip to an amusement park with friends.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥11,440, 50ml ¥16,060, 85ml ¥22,660

Eau de Parfum ‘Tutti Twilly d’Hermes’

The fourth fragrance in the Twilly line, this one captures the spirit of youthful individuality, embracing unconventional style and uninhibited expression. The signature spicy ginger note is softened by the sweet and juicy lychee, while a powdery musk adds a comforting touch.

Key Notes:

Ginger, lychee, musk

Fragrance Family:

Fresh Fruity

Intensity:

★★★☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Stepping into the world of adult socializing, venturing into bars or clubs.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥11,440, 50ml ¥16,060, 85ml ¥22,660

Eau de Parfum ‘Jour d’Hermes’

Created by Jean-Claude Ellena, ‘Jour d’Hermes’ celebrates the enigma of femininity. Rather than highlighting a specific floral note, it allows each individual to interpret their own floral vision.

Ellena masterfully blends the rich and opulent aroma of gardenia with the delicate sweetness of sweet pea, evoking a sense of blossoming beauty and a sensual fragrance experience. The bottle, designed by Pierre Hardy, showcases the fragrance as a suspended droplet of liquid perfume, adding to its aesthetic allure.

Key Notes:

Sweet pea, gardenia

Fragrance Family:

Floral

Intensity:

★★★☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Seeking the embrace of a lush, floral scent.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥11,770, 50ml ¥16,830, 85ml ¥23,870, 125ml refill ¥23,870

Eau de Parfum ‘Galop d’Hermes’

This fragrance beautifully captures the essence of the equestrian spirit, with a harmonious interplay of vibrant rose and a rich, smoky leather accord. The rose initially bursts forth with a crisp and spicy intensity, followed by a powerful leather accord that adds depth and sophistication. This fragrance perfectly reflects Hermes’s heritage as a saddlery brand, and its iconic stirrup-shaped bottle embodies this equestrian theme.

Key Notes:

Rose, leather accord

Fragrance Family:

Leather Floral

Intensity:

★★★☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Pairing with edgy fashion, such as a biker jacket.

Sizes and Prices:

50ml ¥42,790, 125ml refill ¥52,800

Eau de Toilette ‘Eau des Merveilles’

This fragrance is a captivating blend of warm, vanilla-like resin notes, the bright and spicy resinous notes of elemi with citrus facets, and the bittersweet, juicy essence of bitter orange. This unique combination creates a captivating woody amber scent that defies convention.

This feminine fragrance boasts an unconventional recipe, featuring no floral notes, making it a unique and captivating olfactory experience.

Key Notes:

Elemi, benzoin, bitter orange

Fragrance Family:

Woody Amber

Intensity:

★★☆☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Relaxing in a tropical resort overlooking a stunning ocean view.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥10,670, 50ml ¥16,390, 100ml ¥23,320

Eau de Toilette ‘Eau des Merveilles Bleue’

This fragrance builds upon the woody amber foundation of the original ‘Eau des Merveilles,’ adding a captivating mineral nuance. The bottle, with one side flat and the other a hemisphere, resembling a magnifying glass, beautifully encapsulates the essence of the sea.

Christine Nagel’s poetic vision is evident in this fragrance, capturing the crashing waves, shimmering spray, and the celestial connection of the sun’s reflection to the distant stars.

Key Notes:

Juniper berry, patchouli, mineral accord

Fragrance Family:

Mineral Woody

Intensity:

★★☆☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Experiencing the romantic allure of a starlit beach, listening to the gentle rhythm of the ocean.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥10,670, 50ml ¥16,390, 100ml ¥23,320

Eau de Parfum ‘L’ombre des Merveilles’

This fragrance evokes a sense of ethereal beauty, capturing the magical transition from twilight to night. The gentle and graceful notes of incense are intertwined with the sweet warmth of tonka bean, while smoky black tea adds a touch of woody complexity. This exotic fragrance is a symphony of shadow and light, a captivating olfactory journey that captures the essence of the magical hour between day and night.

Key Notes:

Blended black tea, incense, tonka bean

Fragrance Family:

Oriental Woody

Intensity:

★★★☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Embracing the magical hour of twilight, as day gives way to night.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥11,220, 50ml ¥17,160, 100ml ¥24,530

Eau de Toilette ‘Un Jardin sur le Nil’ (Garden on the Nile)

The first fragrance in Jean-Claude Ellena’s esteemed ‘Jardins’ (Gardens) series, ‘Un Jardin sur le Nil’ draws inspiration from the lush, verdant gardens of Tunisia, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

This vibrant fragrance blends the sweet and juicy fig with the smoky, resinous scent of green lentisk and the powdery touch of oleander, creating a refreshing and invigorating olfactory experience.

This natural and botanical fragrance has captivated audiences worldwide, transcending gender boundaries and captivating both men and women.

Key Notes:

Fig, green lentisk, oleander

Fragrance Family:

Woody Green Fruity

Intensity:

★★☆☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Spending quality time with family on a relaxing weekend.

Sizes and Prices:

100ml ¥20,350

Eau de Toilette ‘Un Jardin sur le Toit’ (Garden on the Roof)

Inspired by the rooftop garden of the Hermes flagship store in Faubourg Saint-Honoré, this fragrance captures the fresh, verdant essence of a Parisian oasis.

The aroma of pear and apple trees, nestled among lush foliage, creates a bright and cheerful scent. The addition of magnolia, with its green, fruity, and floral notes, adds a touch of elegance, evoking a serene and tranquil spring day.

This fragrance embodies the comforting and rejuvenating effect of a verdant garden amidst the bustling city, a serene escape from the urban landscape.

Key Notes:

Apple tree, pear tree, magnolia

Fragrance Family:

Fruity Green Floral

Intensity:

★★☆☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Embracing a bright and sunny morning.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥9,460, 50ml ¥14,520, 100ml ¥20,350

Eau de Toilette ‘Un Jardin Après la Mousson’ (Garden After the Monsoon)

This fragrance captures the essence of a Chinese garden, a tranquil sanctuary where vibrant foliage meets traditional elements.

The scent opens with a refreshing burst of kumquat, its slightly bitter notes blending harmoniously with bergamot.

The delicate green fragrance of jasmine sambac unfolds, while the image of a traditional Chinese garden, featuring a serene pond teeming with carp amidst a towering bamboo forest, comes to mind. This simple yet profound fragrance features a touch of sweetness, leaving behind a fresh and calming trail, making it an ideal choice for humid Asian climates.

Key Notes:

Bergamot, kumquat, jasmine sambac

Fragrance Family:

Citrus Floral

Intensity:

★★☆☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Transitioning from the end of summer into the cool embrace of autumn.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥9,460, 50ml ¥14,520, 100ml ¥20,350

Eau de Toilette ‘Un Jardin sur la Lagune’ (Garden on the Lagoon)

Christine Nagel’s first foray into the ‘Jardins’ series, ‘Un Jardin sur la Lagune’ is inspired by the enchanting city of Venice.

This fragrance evokes the essence of the Venetian lagoon, with the mineral-rich notes of sea samphire, the delicate white blooms of the beach shrub known as ‘tobira,’ and a creamy, floral scent reminiscent of gardenia, combined with the sweet and floral notes of Madonna lily. The addition of magnolia, with its spicy, sweet, and subtly aquatic notes, adds a touch of serenity and freshness.

This fragrance is a harmonious blend of floral and woody notes, capturing the essence of Venice’s captivating waterways.

Key Notes:

Sea samphire, tobira, Madonna lily, magnolia

Fragrance Family:

Floral Woody

Intensity:

★★☆☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Seeking the tranquil beauty of a flowing stream or a serene lake.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥9,460, 50ml ¥14,520, 100ml ¥20,350

Eau de Toilette ‘Un Jardin sur le Nil’ (Garden on the Nile)

The first fragrance in Jean-Claude Ellena’s esteemed ‘Jardins’ (Gardens) series, ‘Un Jardin sur le Nil’ draws inspiration from the lush, verdant gardens of Tunisia, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

This vibrant fragrance blends the sweet and juicy fig with the smoky, resinous scent of green lentisk and the powdery touch of oleander, creating a refreshing and invigorating olfactory experience.

This natural and botanical fragrance has captivated audiences worldwide, transcending gender boundaries and captivating both men and women.

Key Notes:

Fig, green lentisk, oleander

Fragrance Family:

Woody Green Fruity

Intensity:

★★☆☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Spending quality time with family on a relaxing weekend.

Sizes and Prices:

100ml ¥20,350

Eau de Toilette ‘Un Jardin sur le Toit’ (Garden on the Roof)

Inspired by the rooftop garden of the Hermes flagship store in Faubourg Saint-Honoré, this fragrance captures the fresh, verdant essence of a Parisian oasis.

The aroma of pear and apple trees, nestled among lush foliage, creates a bright and cheerful scent. The addition of magnolia, with its green, fruity, and floral notes, adds a touch of elegance, evoking a serene and tranquil spring day.

This fragrance embodies the comforting and rejuvenating effect of a verdant garden amidst the bustling city, a serene escape from the urban landscape.

Key Notes:

Apple tree, pear tree, magnolia

Fragrance Family:

Fruity Green Floral

Intensity:

★★☆☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Embracing a bright and sunny morning.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥9,460, 50ml ¥14,520, 100ml ¥20,350

Eau de Toilette ‘Un Jardin Après la Mousson’ (Garden After the Monsoon)

This fragrance captures the essence of a Chinese garden, a tranquil sanctuary where vibrant foliage meets traditional elements.

The scent opens with a refreshing burst of kumquat, its slightly bitter notes blending harmoniously with bergamot.

The delicate green fragrance of jasmine sambac unfolds, while the image of a traditional Chinese garden, featuring a serene pond teeming with carp amidst a towering bamboo forest, comes to mind. This simple yet profound fragrance features a touch of sweetness, leaving behind a fresh and calming trail, making it an ideal choice for humid Asian climates.

Key Notes:

Bergamot, kumquat, jasmine sambac

Fragrance Family:

Citrus Floral

Intensity:

★★☆☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Transitioning from the end of summer into the cool embrace of autumn.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥9,460, 50ml ¥14,520, 100ml ¥20,350

Eau de Toilette ‘Un Jardin sur la Lagune’ (Garden on the Lagoon)

Christine Nagel’s first foray into the ‘Jardins’ series, ‘Un Jardin sur la Lagune’ is inspired by the enchanting city of Venice.

This fragrance evokes the essence of the Venetian lagoon, with the mineral-rich notes of sea samphire, the delicate white blooms of the beach shrub known as ‘tobira,’ and a creamy, floral scent reminiscent of gardenia, combined with the sweet and floral notes of Madonna lily. The addition of magnolia, with its spicy, sweet, and subtly aquatic notes, adds a touch of serenity and freshness.

This fragrance is a harmonious blend of floral and woody notes, capturing the essence of Venice’s captivating waterways.

Key Notes:

Sea samphire, tobira, Madonna lily, magnolia

Fragrance Family:

Floral Woody

Intensity:

★★☆☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Seeking the tranquil beauty of a flowing stream or a serene lake.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥9,460, 50ml ¥14,520, 100ml ¥20,350

Eau de Toilette ‘Un Jardin sur la Lagune’ (Garden on the Lagoon)

Christine Nagel’s first foray into the ‘Jardins’ series, ‘Un Jardin sur la Lagune’ is inspired by the enchanting city of Venice.

This fragrance evokes the essence of the Venetian lagoon, with the mineral-rich notes of sea samphire, the delicate white blooms of the beach shrub known as ‘tobira,’ and a creamy, floral scent reminiscent of gardenia, combined with the sweet and floral notes of Madonna lily. The addition of magnolia, with its spicy, sweet, and subtly aquatic notes, adds a touch of serenity and freshness.

This fragrance is a harmonious blend of floral and woody notes, capturing the essence of Venice’s captivating waterways.

Key Notes:

Sea samphire, tobira, Madonna lily, magnolia

Fragrance Family:

Floral Woody

Intensity:

★★☆☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Seeking the tranquil beauty of a flowing stream or a serene lake.

Sizes and Prices:

30ml ¥9,460, 50ml ¥14,520, 100ml ¥20,350

Colonia Hermes Eau de Cologne ‘Eau d’Orange Verte’

This fragrance, originally launched in 1979 as the maison’s first cologne, was renamed ‘Eau d’Orange Verte’ in 1997.

This classic cologne captures the essence of citrus freshness, with the invigorating zest of orange peel and the delicate floral notes of neroli.

The addition of lemon’s tartness and the juicy sweetness of cassis, reminiscent of blackcurrant, adds a touch of zest and vibrancy.

The base notes of oak moss and patchouli create a grounding effect, adding depth and complexity to the fragrance.

Key Notes:

Mandarin, lemon, mint leaves, blackcurrant buds, oak moss, patchouli

Fragrance Family:

Citrus Woody

Intensity:

★★☆☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Spritzing onto freshly showered skin during the humid summer months.

Sizes and Prices:

50ml ¥12,540, 100ml ¥17,600, 200ml ¥23,980

Colonia Hermes Eau de Cologne ‘Eau de Néroli Dore’

Neroli, a precious essence extracted through steam distillation of bitter orange blossoms, is the heart of this fragrance. ‘Eau de Néroli Dore’ also features petitgrain, an essence obtained through steam distillation of bitter orange twigs and leaves.

This fragrance evokes the intoxicating scent of orange blossoms, enhanced by the spicy warmth of saffron.

Key Notes:

Saffron, neroli, petitgrain

Fragrance Family:

Citrus

Intensity:

★★★☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Embracing the carefree spirit of a summer vacation.

Sizes and Prices:

100ml ¥17,600

Colonia Hermes Eau de Cologne ‘Eau de Rhubarbe Ecarlate’

This fragrance captures the duality of rhubarb, a versatile ingredient that can be both tart and sweet.

The scent opens with the tangy sweetness of rhubarb, its vibrant notes blended with the crisp, clean scent of sage.

The floral essence of lantana adds a touch of delicate sweetness, while a soft white musk envelops the entire fragrance.

Key Notes:

Rhubarb, lantana, white musk

Fragrance Family:

Fresh Fruity

Intensity:

★★★☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Sharpening the mind and maintaining a clear focus.

Sizes and Prices:

100ml ¥17,600

Colonia Hermes Eau de Cologne ‘Eau de Citron Noir’

This fragrance is a captivating blend of crisp lemon zest and smoky black tea, evoking the rich and complex flavors of dried lemons, a common spice used in Middle Eastern cuisine.

The fragrance is further enhanced by the addition of guaiacwood, a fragrant wood with a subtle sweetness and earthy aroma. This unexpected combination results in a sophisticated and calming scent.

This cologne offers surprisingly good longevity, allowing you to enjoy its captivating evolution as it dries down on your skin.

Key Notes:

Lemon, guaiacwood, black tea

Fragrance Family:

Citrus Woody

Intensity:

★★★☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Embracing a mysterious and captivating aura.

Sizes and Prices:

100ml ¥17,600

Colonia Hermes Eau de Cologne ‘Eau de Basilic Pourpre’

This fragrance captures the refreshing and slightly sweet essence of purple basil, a herb commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine.

The invigorating scent of bergamot and green basil, combined with the floral notes of geranium, which feature a touch of rose, adds a touch of sophistication.

The earthy aroma of patchouli, along with invigorating spices, rounds out the fragrance, creating a balanced and enduring scent.

Key Notes:

Bergamot, purple basil, geranium, patchouli, spices

Fragrance Family:

Herbal Woody

Intensity:

★★★☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Setting a calm and sophisticated mood.

Sizes and Prices:

100ml ¥17,600

Colonia Hermes Eau de Cologne ‘Eau de Pamplemousse Rose’

This fragrance is a harmonious blend of the refreshing and slightly bitter grapefruit with the delicate, slightly blue tones of rose.

Jean-Claude Ellena’s masterful approach to fragrance is evident in this simple yet elegant creation, where the natural beauty of the ingredients is allowed to shine.

Key Notes:

Grapefruit, rose

Fragrance Family:

Citrus Floral

Intensity:

★★☆☆☆

Ideal Occasion:

Seeking a refreshing and invigorating scent experience.

Sizes and Prices:

100ml ¥17,600

Contact:

Hermes Japan: 03-3569-3300, www.hermes.com

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