Jean-Louis Scherrer by Parfums Jean-Louis Scherrer c1979

Jean-Louis Scherrer by Parfums Jean-Louis Scherrer, also known as Scherrer or Scherrer I, is a classic fragrance that made its debut in 1979 through a collaboration with Uniperf Inc of New York. Its journey to the USA by 1983 speaks to its popularity and widespread appeal. 

The creative genius behind this fragrance is perfumer Josette Ramisse, who crafted it under the umbrella of International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF), a renowned fragrance house known for its innovative scents. Ramisse's expertise contributed to the creation of a timeless fragrance that continues to captivate perfume enthusiasts around the world.

Jean Louis Scherrer's introduction of his first perfume alongside his July 25, 1979 fashion collection was a moment of true elegance and innovation. The perfume itself was presented in a striking manner, housed in a faceted, 3-inch pyramid of black plastic that doubled as a wearable pin, adding a unique touch to its presentation. The launch event, held at the prestigious Cercle Interallie Club on Faubourg Saint-Honore, was a lavish affair, featuring a fashion show showcasing the latest summer designs followed by a garden party luncheon. The guest list included esteemed figures such as Valerie-Anne Montassier, the daughter of President Valery Giscard d'Estaing, as well as notable personalities like Pat Kennedy Lawford and the Duke & Duchess of Orleans, adding to the allure of the occasion.

Princess Grace of Monaco's reported fondness for the perfume further solidifies its status as a timeless classic, adding a touch of regal endorsement to its appeal. This fragrance, with its exquisite presentation and captivating scent, continues to hold a special place in the hearts of perfume aficionados and fashion enthusiasts alike, embodying the essence of sophistication and glamour.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a fresh fruity, green floral chypre fragrance for women.  It begins with a green, fruity top, followed by an exotic floral heart, resting on a sensual, powdery, woody base.

• Top notes: Calabrian bergamot, Iranian galbanum, tangerine, blackcurrant buds, Sicilian mandarin, aldehydes, violet, cassis and hyacinth
• Middle notes: carnation, tuberose, gardenia, Florentine iris, jasmine absolute and Bulgarian rose
• Base notes: Seychelles patchouli, Mysore sandalwood, ambergris, musk, civet, Yugoslavian oakmoss, vanilla, Bourbon vetiver and cedar

Jean Louis Scherrer by Parfums Jean-Louis Scherrer offers a captivating olfactory experience that combines freshness, floral elegance, and sensual warmth.

At the outset, the fragrance opens with a burst of vibrant green and fruity notes, evoking a sense of vitality and excitement. The top notes feature a harmonious blend of Calabrian bergamot, Iranian galbanum, tangerine, blackcurrant buds, Sicilian mandarin, aldehydes, violet, cassis, and hyacinth, creating a refreshing and invigorating introduction.

As the scent evolves, it transitions into a rich and exotic floral heart, where the fragrance blossoms with the opulence of carnation, tuberose, gardenia, Florentine iris, jasmine absolute, and Bulgarian rose. These floral accords add a layer of sophistication and femininity to the composition, lending an air of timeless elegance.

Finally, the base notes anchor the fragrance with a sensuous and enveloping warmth, characterized by Seychelles patchouli, Mysore sandalwood, ambergris, musk, civet, Yugoslavian oakmoss, vanilla, Bourbon vetiver, and cedar. This base provides a powdery, woody depth that enhances the overall allure of the scent, leaving a lasting impression of sophistication and allure.

Overall, Jean Louis Scherrer by Parfums Jean-Louis Scherrer is a masterpiece of perfumery, perfectly balancing freshness, florals, and sensuality to create an enchanting and unforgettable fragrance experience.

Bottle:

The iconic bottle of Jean Louis Scherrer by Parfums Jean-Louis Scherrer, designed by renowned sculptor Serge Mansau in 1979, is a true work of art. Its unique and striking design perfectly complements the elegance and sophistication of the fragrance it contains. Produced in France by Pochet et du Courval, a prestigious glass manufacturer known for their high-quality craftsmanship, the bottle reflects the attention to detail and luxury associated with the Scherrer brand.

Mansau's design, characterized by its faceted, pyramid-shaped silhouette crafted from black plastic, not only serves as a stunning vessel for the fragrance but also doubles as a wearable pin, adding an element of versatility and creativity to its presentation. The combination of Mansau's artistic vision and Pochet et du Courval's expertise in glassmaking results in a bottle that is not only visually captivating but also a testament to the timeless allure of Jean Louis Scherrer perfume.

The fragrance was available in the following:

• 1/6 oz Parfum Refillable Purse Spray (original retail price $55)
• 1/8 oz Parfum (original retail price $40)
• 1/4 oz  Parfum (original retail price $55, by 1984 the price went up to $65)
• 1/2 oz Parfum (original retail price $90)
• 1 oz Parfum (original retail price $150, by 1984 the price went up to $165)

• 1.6 oz Eau de Parfum Splash
• 0.85 oz Eau de Parfum Natural Spray
• 3.3 oz  Eau de Parfum Natural Spray (original retail price $50)

• 1.6 oz Eau de Toilette Splash (original retail price $30)
• 3.3 oz Eau de Toilette Splash (original retail price $50)
• 1.6 oz  Eau de Toilette Natural Spray (original retail price $32.50)
• 3.3 oz  Eau de Toilette Natural Spray (original retail price $55)

• 1.6 oz  Bath Oil (original retail price $25)
• 6.6 oz Body Cream (original retail price $40)
• 6.6 oz Body Milk (original retail price $22.50)
• 5 oz Foam Bath  (original retail price $18.50)
• Soap

Fate of the Fragrance:

The history and distribution of Jean-Louis Scherrer fragrances provide insight into its journey and evolution within the industry.

Initially produced and distributed by Uniperf, Inc, a fine fragrance division of Unilever, Jean-Louis Scherrer made its debut in the USA in 1983. Following this, Francais de Soins et Parfums (FSP), Unilever's luxury fragrance division, took over as the producer and distributor in Europe from 1983 onwards.

In 1985, Depute, a California-based fine fragrance division of DEP Corporation, became the exclusive U.S. distributor for Jean-Louis Scherrer fragrances under an agreement with FSP.

The address of Parfums Jean-Louis Scherrer evolved over time, reflecting changes within the company. In 1988, the address was 51 Avenue Montaigne, Paris, France. By 2002, it had shifted to 320 rue Saint Honoré, Paris, France, marking a transition for the brand.

In 2001, Parfums Jean-Louis Scherrer spun off from its parent company, signaling a new chapter in its history. Since around 2011, SA Designer Parfums, LTD has been associated with the brand, continuing its legacy and bringing forth new interpretations of its timeless fragrances.

The discontinuation of Jean-Louis Scherrer fragrances, along with its reformulation prior to 2009, reflects the evolving landscape of the perfume industry and the changing preferences of consumers over time. Despite these shifts, the brand's rich history and iconic fragrances continue to resonate with perfume enthusiasts worldwide.