Our take
What does Coriandre smell like?
Jean Couturier launched Coriandre in 1973. It's an old-school floral chypre and doesn't pretend otherwise. It smells like a perfume from another era, in the best sense. The top is sharp with coriander, orange blossom, angelica and aldehydes that add a soapy sparkle. Coriander has a green-spice, almost lemony quality that always surprises. The heart moves to rose and jasmine, backed by green geranium and powdery iris. Picture a florist's bouquet tucked into a leather bag. The base is darker: patchouli, vetiver, sandalwood and a civet that adds an animal undertone. On skin the civet stays discreet and gives the flowers warmth rather than dirt. Many modern chypres feel thin next to it. You have to like perfumes with posture and projection. More floral than Clinique's Aromatics Elixir, released two years earlier, Coriandre shares its taste for rose and patchouli.
When to wear it
A scent with personality for spring and autumn. One spray only, since it projects strongly and lasts.
It belongs to the Floral, Chypre family. Coriandre is one of 1 creations by Jean Couturier in our encyclopedia.
