Drakkar Noir by Guy Laroche
Drakkar Noir was launched in 1982 by Guy Laroche. It was created by Pierre Wargnye, a French perfumer known for his masculine, bold scents. The name “Drakkar” was inspired by Viking longships, showing how the cologne aimed to appeal to a man who is strong, self-assured, and bold.
The top notes are lavender, lemon, basil, rosemary, and verbena, providing freshness and herbal sharpness. The heart notes are juniper, coriander, cinnamon, angelica, and wormwood, adding a spicy and floral touch to the scent. The base notes are oakmoss, leather, sandalwood, fir balsam, patchouli, vetiver, and cedar, ending the scent with smokiness and earthiness.
Drakkar Noir became the symbol of the 1980s with its bold scent, resembling the era’s masculinity. Despite it being rooted in the 1980s, the cologne is in the classic genre for men’s fragrances (fougère structure), allowing it to remain popular for a long time. The scent lasts throughout the day, adding another reason to its popularity. Drakkar Noir remains an iconic cologne that’s synonymous with sophistication and masculinity.