Raks by André Barnwell c1995

Introducing "Räks" by André Barnwell, unveiled in 1995. The fragrance's name is pronounced "ROCKS," embodying a fusion of strength and elegance. Crafted by Givaudan (Roure), this scent captures a timeless essence, resonating with the spirit of its era.

The genesis of the name "Räks" is rooted in the imagery of rushing waters over rocks, signifying resilience and masculinity to André Barnwell. Inspired by the strength evoked by stones, the umlaut in the 'A' pays homage to Chanel's Egoiste fragrance, lending a unique flair. Rather than opting for a conventional spelling like "Rocks," Barnwell's deliberate choice of spelling, coupled with the distinctive umlaut, ensured Räks stood out amongst its competitors on the shelf.

Barnwell's strategic move extended beyond conceptualization; he secured a pivotal meeting with Nordstrom's buyer division, negotiating an exclusive deal to retail his fragrances solely through Nordstrom.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a crisp citric aromatic fougère fragrance for men.

'The fougere family brings a truly classic and timeless appeal to the fragrance theme while the citrus notes add a new dimension. Fougere notes hive its warmth and sensuality with its use of spices and precious woods. A unique modern twist is given by fresh garden sage and brilliant coriander. The top note is wonderfully fresh with notes of neroli, Maltese orange and crisp bergamot. Described as an olfactive marriage of the 'classic' fougere family and a modern citrus resulting in a new olfactive and/or fragrance family the 'Modern Citrus Fougere."

• Top notes: bergamot, Maltese orange, neroli
• Middle notes: lavender, sage, coriander, spices, myrrh
• Base notes: amber, oakmoss, labdanum, musk, frankincense, sandalwood, vetiver

"Räks" is a captivating fragrance classified as a crisp citric aromatic fougère, designed especially for men. This scent is a modern reinterpretation of a timeless classic, infusing traditional fougère elements with a refreshing citrus twist.

At the forefront, vibrant top notes of bergamot, Maltese orange, and neroli greet the senses, evoking a sense of invigorating freshness. As the fragrance settles, a harmonious blend of lavender, sage, coriander, and spices unfold, infusing warmth and sensuality. The addition of myrrh adds a touch of exotic allure to the heart notes.

As the scent lingers, a rich and enduring base emerges, comprising amber, oakmoss, labdanum, musk, frankincense, sandalwood, and vetiver. These base notes provide depth and complexity, leaving a lasting impression that is both sophisticated and memorable.

Overall, "Räks" is a fragrance that balances tradition with innovation, offering a modern twist on a classic theme. Its dynamic combination of citrus freshness, herbal accents, and rich, woody undertones makes it a versatile and alluring choice for any occasion.

Bottle:

"Räks" is not just a fragrance, it's an experience encapsulated in a captivating gold-tinted cologne, elegantly presented in a clear square bottle. What sets it apart is its ingenious design featuring a layer of genuine earth-tone rocks nestled at the base. With every movement of the bottle, these rocks dance and shift, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle that captures attention effortlessly. This innovative concept not only enhances the allure of the fragrance but also adds a tactile element, inviting users to engage with it on a deeper level.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Discontinued and elusive, yet still sought after by fragrance enthusiasts, 'Räks' remained available until 2002, adding to its mystique and desirability.