One of the oldest terms for perfume, cologne dates back to 1709 and originated in its namesake in Germany. While humankind has been making and wearing perfume as long as history has been recorded, the first Eau de cologne was concocted by Italian-born perfumier, Giovanni Maria Farina, and named Kölnisch Wasser – ‘Cologne Water’. The refreshing scent inspired the production of other delicate colognes, which quickly gained in popularity as a lighter alternative to the stronger and more concentrated perfumes being produced in France and Italy at the time. For centuries, perfumes and colognes were primarily used to express hygiene and cleanliness and, for the most part, belonged to only the wealthiest in society.
Today, cologne has a different purpose and identity, available more widely and serving more of a cosmetic role for personal expression. While mainstream colognes are easily recognisable and cater to a broad market, niche colognes are more unique and offer something different to the wearer, usually at a more luxury price point. Often concocted by smaller artisanal perfume houses, with rarer and more exotic ingredients, niche colognes set you apart from the masses and offer an element of mystery and intrigue. Yet, with a vast array of brands and scents specially concocted for different seasons, times of day and occasions, navigating the ever-evolving offerings to find your perfect scents can be daunting. Luckily, our top ten ranking of niche cologne brands is here to help.
Corridor Static
An Eau de parfum designed to encapsulate heady attraction between two strangers, Corridor Static is an alluring and intimate scent, denoted by Timur pepper, coffee and woody layers. Designed in collaboration with 150-year-old French perfume house, Mane, it brings specially selected raw ingredients to life, expressing unspoken feelings of desire while its clean-cut bottle lets the scent do the talking. Designed for daily and year-round wear, Corridor Static is a staple scent that leaves a delicious air of intrigue.
Nasomatto Black Afgano
Designed to ‘arouse a feeling of temporary bliss’, Black Afgano by Nasomatto is a more intense and intoxicating fragrance. The amber oriental perfume was designed to evoke the best quality of hashish, with its smoky and distinctive aroma composed with notes of cannabis, woods, resins, coffee, tobacco, incense and oud. Each scent in the Nasomatto family is topped with an oversized textured statement lid, ensuring each creation by the cult brand is unique by sight and scent.
Parfums de Marly Layton
Parfums De Marly are inspired by Louis XV and his ‘perfumed court’ in Versailles in the 18th century, in which he insisted on a different scent for each room and fountain. Layton is similarly indulgent; an amber fragrance with sweet floral and citrus notes, followed by warm and spicy undertones reminiscent of rich caramelised coffee. Bottled in a deep, dark blue opaque glass and embossed with the brand’s equestrian emblem, the scent certainly delivers on its extravagant exterior.
Creed Aventus
Often referred to as the ‘King of Cologne’, Aventus by Creed is a popular option with sophisticated men across the globe. Its fruity top notes of apple, bergamot and blackcurrant are followed by deeper notes of birch, jasmine, patchouli, with smoky and woody base tones offering the perfect masculine conclusion. The luxurious scent is every bit as special as its price tag would suggest, yet still perfect for year-round and everyday wear.z
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540
Rouge 540 was created by Masion Francis Kurkdijan in celebration of the 250th anniversary of French crystal house Baccarat, and the result is every bit as indulgent as you might expect from the coming together of two legendary luxury brands. The mesmerising Eau de parfum is an exquisite combination of jasmine, saffron, ambergris and cedarwood, and is the ideal scent for the gentleman looking to make a bold statement on a night out or special occasion.
Acqua di Parma Colonia Pura
One of the most well-known niche fragrance houses, Aqua di Parma has stood proudly as a symbol of luxury, sophistication and expert craftsmanship for over 100 years. Its Colonia Pura cologne is designed to encapsulate a ‘simple way of living’ with its crisp and refreshing signature scent. Light citrus top notes are complemented by deeper middle notes of jasmine and coriander oil before base notes of cedarwood, musk and Indonesian patchouli introduce yet another dimension to the intriguing fragrance.
Le Labo Santal 33
Drawing inspiration from the iconic Marlboro advert in which a man and horse are stood in front of an open fire under an evening sky, Santal 33 is an olfactive depiction of comforting crackling fires and drifting smoke. Tones of iris, cardamom and violet are underpinned by rich sandalwood, papyrus and cedarwood to create a masculine leathery musk that’s sure to last all day.
19-69 L’air Barbés
This light and fresh Eau de parfum is a perfect complement to the cold nights and crisp mornings of autumn and winter. L’air Barbés is inspired by Paris and its different personas found among the concrete alleyways, la banlieue and Barbès – Rochechouart. Just like the city itself, the scent offers surprises at every turn, with fresh lemon and bergamot evolving into a deeper and more mysterious scent made up of leather, ink and dry wood base notes.
Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille
Designed to be reminiscent of London’s finest private clubs, Tom Ford’s Tobacco Vanille is the epitome of opulence and debauchery. A rich blend of tobacco leaf, vanilla and spices create a warm, sweet, sensual fragrance that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. The ‘private blend’ is every bit as bold as its statement black chess-piece inspired bottle might suggest.
Fiele Fragrances Lavandula
The perfect niche fragrance for men seeking a summery scent for warmer weather, Lavandula is designed to embody field and forest and evoke nostalgia and memories from sunny afternoons. The lesser-known artisan brand, Fiele Fragrances, crafts each of its natural scents with a selection of hand blended ingredients. The calming presence of lavender in this scent is elevated with vibrant white grapefruit and bergamot, followed by jasmine and sandalwood, and concluded by nutty tonka bean and musk for a gentle earthy finish.
Whether you’re looking to refresh your fragrance collection with a staple scent for everyday wear or invest in something a little more indulgent, your cologne should always complement the time, place and occasion, and express your individual style and personality. For the distinguished gentleman looking to stand out and leave a lasting impression with his scent profile, niche colognes are almost certainly the way to go.
