Our take
What does Eau d'Orange Verte smell like?
Eau d’Orange Verte is Hermès’s first cologne. Françoise Caron composed it in 1979, when it was simply called Eau de Cologne Hermès. It took its current name in 1997. Jean-Claude Ellena later reworked it and toned down the moss. The opening is sour, almost bitter. The orange is green and unripe, with lemon and mandarin adding a burst of zest. Bergamot is often listed, though some purists dispute it. Mint arrives quickly and cools the throat. Jasmine and orange blossom stay well in the background. The base is a surprise for a cologne. Oakmoss, patchouli and cedar give it a frame that leans toward chypre. Dior’s Eau Sauvage shares the idea of citrus over a dry base. Orange Verte is greener and more minty. It lasts as long as a cologne should, which is not long.
When to wear it
Perfect in summer for anyone, after sport or before work. Splash it on freely, that is what it is for.
It belongs to the Citrus, Aromatic family. Eau d'Orange Verte is one of 47 creations by Hermès in our encyclopedia.