Hermès – Eau d’Orange Verte: Overview, Smell, Notes & More!

If a mound of citrus was squashed into a perfume, Eau d’Orange Verte would be the scent to come out of the bottle.

First released in 1979, the cologne was a first from Hermès.

It’s now one of the most critically acclaimed citrus fragrances, so much so that it was re-released 30 years later in 2009.

Most reformulations are usually not as good as the original, but following a 30-year generational shift, the fragrance is now enjoyed by a whole new group of consumers.

A clever move, or a lucky coincidence?

Overview

• Brand: Hermès Paris
• Fragrance: Eau d’Orange Verte
• Release: 2009 (originally 1979)
• Gender: Unisex
• Perfumer: Jean-Claude Ellena

Fragrance Notes

• Top Notes: Amalfi Lemon, Mandarin orange, Sweet orange, Petit Grain
• Heart Notes: Blackcurrant buds absolute, Mint
• Base Notes: Oakmoss, Patchouli

What Does Eau d’Orange Verte Smell Like?

The opening provides an uplifting, bright, and zingy concoction.

The mandarin has a crisp, zesty scent similar to that of its peel.

This introduces a green, bitter scent in the foreground that is accompanied by lemon and well-balanced by the sweet orange.

The blackcurrant buds in the middle are noticeable, but also have a minty aspect to their structure.

Add actual mint to this, and you have a cool, refreshing heart with fruity aspects of the blackcurrant playing a background role.

Oakmoss and patchouli bring out an earthy, masculine vibe to things, painting the picture of a calm breeze in the woods.

This brings together one of the coolest citrus scents around, both literally and figuratively.

How Long Does It Last?

It’s weak.

It’s easy to state this as the fragrance’s biggest disadvantage, but it is marketed as an eau de cologne; an indication that one should expect a short lifespan.

You’ll be lucky if it lasts on your skin for 2 hours (even an hour at times), but it might go for longer if sprayed on clothes.

Sillage is also weak; not only will you not be able to enjoy it for long periods of time, but you also won’t leave a trail behind, making it harder to get compliments.

When Should You Wear It?

The fresh, citrusy structure screams for you to wear it in the warmer periods of the year.

Its potential is best realized in the summer.

Because of this, you should be skeptical about wearing it in the evening.

Daytime is more suitable.

Where Should You Wear It?

If it’s hot, this is the green scent for you; just remember to keep longevity in mind. 

It can work in an office environment, but you’ll need a bunch of resprays during the day.

It comes off as best for leisure activities, such as an afternoon in the park, or getting a cool treat on a hot day.

Presentation and Value For Money

The first 1979 Eau d`Orange Verte by Françoise Caron was inspired by the aroma of morning dew and rose-scented undergrowth.

That deep, woody, outdoor feel is the definition of who this perfume is for: the calm, individualistic person with a zing to their personality.

You’ll be lucky if you can find the 1979 version as the 2009 release is more readily available.

A 3.34 fl oz (100 ml) bottle goes for around $120 to $150.

The aroma may be worth the price, but consider the longevity and this is one where you, sadly, won’t get much bang for your buck.

If you’re in need of one of the best citrus scents, and price is not an issue, Eau d’Orange Verte comes highly recommended. 

The Bottom Line

This cologne has emerged as one of the most timeless releases from Hermès (alongside the likes of Terre d’Hermes).

Whether you’re on board with it or not, it’s undoubtedly one of the most authentic citrus scents.

Perfumes that Smell Like Eau d’Orange Verte

If you’re not able to splash at least $120 on a cologne (despite the quality), the following are cheaper, but still high-quality alternatives to the classic fragrance.

1. Eau Du Parc (100 Bon)

The greens in this bring out an aroma reminiscent of the Hermes bouquet. This is accentuated by the natural smell of bitter orange blossom and notes like fresh mint and bergamot.

It’s an eau de parfum so, by definition, it was made to last a while. It can last you up to 5 or 6 hours and you can scoop up 50 mls of this on the official site for $40.

2. Caju & Lime (Molton Brown)

Caju & Lime is a fresh and green summer scent for both men and women.  Accords like clary sage and galbanum further enhance its freshness.

It doesn’t last as long as the above, but it does go on for longer compared to the Hermes bouquet. 50 mls of this goes for around $40.

3. Bursting Caju & Lime (Molton Brown)

Slightly similar to the above (but closer to the Hermès bouquet when both Molton Brown’s are compared), Bursting Caju & Lime is a 2014 EDT.

It lasts for about 4 hours at most and you’ll need around $38 to $45 for 50 mls.