Issey Miyake L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme Vétiver Eau de Toilette Intense immediately captures attention with its electrifying opening that reinterprets the classic aquatic-fresh DNA through an intense vetiver lens. Created by perfumer François Demachy in 2021, this composition opens with a sharp burst of Japanese yuzu and peppered citron that feels both invigorating and grounded. The citrus top notes are crisp and transparent, yet they carry an undercurrent of green vetiver root that hints at the depth to come.
Development: From Citrusy Zenith to Earthy Depth
As the fragrance evolves, the central vetiver accord takes command, offering a dual character of smoky earthiness and vibrant greenery. The Japanese vetiver oil provides a sophisticated smokiness, while Haitian vetiver delivers its grassy, rooty counterpart. This interplay creates a textured heart that feels as meditative as it is dynamic. A subtle facet of cinnamon bark adds warmth without becoming spicy, bridging the citrus opening and the woody base seamlessly.
The transition feels organic, moving from the initial brightness into a contemplative space where the vetiver’s natural complexity shines without harsh edges. This is vetiver refined for urban environments, retaining its raw character while appearing polished and modern.
Performance: Balanced Power and Elegance
L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme Vétiver Eau de Toilette Intense delivers robust performance, lasting 8-10 hours with moderate to strong projection for the first three hours. The fragrance develops beautifully, maintaining its smokey-green signature throughout its lifespan without devolving into bitterness or dryness. Wearers report consistent presence and appreciable sillage that strikes the ideal balance between noticeable and respectful.
This level of performance elevates the composition from a casual summer release to a year-round signature scent, suitable for both professional and social settings.
The Bottle: Contemporary Minimalism
Presented in Issey Miyake’s signature flacon reimagined with a gradient amber-to-clear glass, Vétiver Intense’s packaging evokes the ritual of pouring tea, reflecting its Japanese-inspired ethos. The sleek, cylindrical silhouette and minimalist labeling underscore the brand’s commitment to simplicity and harmony.
Who Should Try Vétiver Eau de Toilette Intense?
Perfect for:
- Those seeking a modern, intense vetiver expression
- Fans of fresh-citrus openings with smoky-woody depth
- Year-round signature scent versatility
- Anyone valuing balanced projection and longevity
Skip If:
- You prefer ultra-light, fleeting freshness
- Sweet or gourmand notes are more your preference
- Aquatic or marine scents define your signature style
Price and Value
75ml: £56 / $68 / €61
125ml: £77 / $92 / €85
Positioned at accessible luxury pricing, Vétiver Intense offers exceptional value for its quality ingredients and impressive performance. It stands out among modern vetiver fragrances for its clarity, depth, and enduring freshness.
L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme Vétiver Eau de Toilette Intense: Refined Resilience
Issey Miyake’s Vétiver Intense succeeds in delivering a fragrance that feels both energizing and grounding. Its masterful blend of citrusy luminosity and smoky-earthy vetiver creates an olfactory journey that embodies contemporary elegance and natural harmony. If you seek a vetiver fragrance that balances power with subtlety, Vétiver Eau de Toilette Intense offers a refined, modern interpretation that resonates long after application.
