Eau de Vetyver

The Verdict

Givenchy's Eau de Vetyver, originally created in 1959 as Hubert de Givenchy's personal fragrance, holds a near-mythical status among vetiver devotees. Blended from rare vetiver varieties with only bergamot, coriander, sandalwood, and oakmoss for support, it represents perfumery at its most elegantly restrained. Many experienced collectors rank it above Guerlain's Vetiver as the definitive expression of the note.

The critical caveat is that the original and modern formulations are worlds apart. Vintage bottles from 2007 or earlier are the ones that earn the masterpiece designation, while the Les Parfums Mythiques reissue is considered a serviceable but diminished version.

What It Smells Like

The composition opens with a citrusy, fizzy introduction of bergamot that quickly gives way to the star ingredient. The vetiver here is deep, dry, earthy, and smooth, nothing harsh or aggressively green. One reviewer describes it as the smoothest, most suave, and most comforting vetiver scent, and also the warmest, richest, and most rounded treatment of the note.

What sets Givenchy's version apart is the coriander accent, which introduces a distinctive peppery quality that reviewers consistently identify as the secret ingredient elevating it above the competition. The sandalwood and cedar base adds warmth and body without competing for attention. According to original Givenchy marketing materials, the composition used only five ingredients, proving that masterful perfumery can emerge from radical simplicity.

When to Wear It

Reviewers reach for Eau de Vetyver when they feel a need for serenity. Its calm, introspective character makes it ideal for quiet professional settings, relaxed weekends, and meditative moments. The intimate projection suits understated formal events and one-on-one conversations. Spring through autumn provides the best backdrop, though its warm woodiness works in mild winter weather.

The fragrance whispers rather than projects, making it suitable for those who view fragrance as a personal rather than public experience.

Longevity & Projection

Performance depends entirely on which version you own. Vintage bottles have been reported to last anywhere from 2 hours to a remarkable 12-18 hours, with wide variation between individuals. The modern Les Parfums Mythiques version delivers a more consistent 6-8 hours. Projection across all versions tends to be intimate, staying close to the skin. The fragrance was designed by Givenchy for personal enjoyment, not public announcement, and its performance reflects that intention.

The Community Says

The fragrance community speaks with rare unanimity about Eau de Vetyver's quality. Basenotes users call it the alltime best Vetyver ever created and one of the most exceptional presentations of vetiver ever produced, a real masterpiece. One reviewer claims that after trying over 30 vetivers, Givenchy is the best. A famous Basenotes thread titled The Holy Grail finally discovered was dedicated specifically to this fragrance. Fragrantica reviewers echo this reverence while noting the critical importance of seeking vintage bottles. Now Smell This praises its calm, whispered elegance.

Who Should Buy This

Eau de Vetyver is essential sampling for anyone who considers themselves a vetiver lover. If you appreciate minimalist compositions that achieve depth through quality rather than complexity, and you have the patience to hunt for vintage bottles, this fragrance could become a lifelong companion. The modern version is worth trying as an accessible entry point, but manage expectations accordingly. This is not for those who need their fragrance to announce their arrival.

The Bottom Line

Givenchy's Eau de Vetyver stands as one of perfumery's quiet masterpieces: a radically simple composition that achieves extraordinary depth through the finest materials and a masterful hand. The challenge lies in finding a bottle worthy of the legend.