Eau de Vétyver (1977)
by Le Jardin Retrouvé

This is certainly not a clean rendition of vetiver, it is particularly grassy, and the resulting accords give the impression of warm hay, tobacco and bourbon. The lightly refreshing citrus elements brighten the opening, but largely disappear beyond the top notes, and what remains is slightly medicinal. I probably would not be reaching for this as a summer cleanser, rather as a boozy cold weather drinking companion. It is still my favourite vetiver, and it is a shame that it is not more widely appreciated.

10th April, 2011.

Pas male but not even remotely great; however, still very wearable, light and subtle.

28th February, 2010.

It is nearly impossible to follow up Naed Nitram's review, which is my favorite on Basenotes. So I'll keep it simple. This one is a classic vetiver with its precise interplay of citrus and tobacco. It isn't as in your face and somehow pungent as Guerlain's can be at times. As with other scents by LJR Eau de Vetyver is light, crystal clear, pure...dreamlike. Should be the perfect scent for spring and summer giving you the restrained air of a knowing gentleman.

10th November, 2009. (Last Edited: 24th April, 2010.)

The Baron de Charlus once delivered a lecture to the Society of Perfumes in Paris on the subject of Vetyver-Vanille by Le Jardin Retrouve. 'Messieurs and mesdames,' he began, 'indulge me while I engage in another of my impressionistic rambles. Alphonse and Eugenie, you know, the children at the picnic, how they are full of delight on this beautiful summer's day! Creaking hay carts, waving branches, easy majesty of summer. Bitter vetiver, sweet vanilla. Hand in hand they go. Mama and Papa are sipping champagne. The children are hiding in the tall grass of the meadow. Sunlight, shadows and confectionary. Bitter vetiver, sweet vanilla. Little do they know that they will carry this scent with them, this secret poem of childhood, half remembered, through their whole lives - like some deep forgotten yearning.'

3rd June, 2005.