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7.6 / 10 95 Ratings
A popular perfume by Monotheme for men, released in 2003. The scent is green-fresh. It is being marketed by Mavive.
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Main accords

Green
Fresh
Spicy
Citrus
Woody

Fragrance Pyramid

Top Notes Top Notes
ArtemisiaArtemisia BergamotBergamot CorianderCoriander LemonLemon
Heart Notes Heart Notes
Bourbon vetiverBourbon vetiver Orange blossomOrange blossom
Base Notes Base Notes
OakmossOakmoss SandalwoodSandalwood
Ratings
Scent
7.695 Ratings
Longevity
6.681 Ratings
Sillage
6.181 Ratings
Bottle
7.580 Ratings
Value for money
9.132 Ratings
Submitted by Chemist, last update on 11/08/2025.
Interesting Facts
The fragrance is part of the Classic Collection collection.

Smells similar

What the fragrance is similar to
Original Vetiver by Creed
Original Vetiver
Agua Fresca Vetiver / Vetiver Hombre by Adolfo Dominguez
Agua Fresca Vetiver
Uomo Vetyver (Eau de Toilette) by Malizia
Uomo Vetyver Eau de Toilette

Reviews

8 in-depth fragrance descriptions
Smeriglio

72 Reviews
Smeriglio
Smeriglio
3  
Aromatic vetiver
You know when you walk into a restaurant where your friends have taken you and you survey the situation. You realize that it is packaged well, it is of a certain level and this suggests a high cost for the menu. You start to scroll through the list of food and wine provided by the house and assume an incredulous attitude when the prices catch your eye; “really below the market average” you exclaim. "They will bring us some pre-cooked food." None of this. The approach to this perfume is similar to the metaphor described above. At the opening it is fresh, with the presence of more bergamot and less lemon, but also very aromatic; there is a very consistent mugwort which, together with a little coriander, makes the atmosphere herbaceous, bitter. These aromatic herbs continue to writhe under the nose for at least ten minutes while the citrus fruits take on a secluded profile. At this point the fragrance turns towards a note of vetiver which at first appears clean thanks to the influence of neroli; then, entering the final phase, the fragrance exhibits a classic style with a propagation of oakmoss and vetiver, softened by a nuance of sandalwood. Experience above expectations
0 Comments
EstelleF

2 Reviews
EstelleF
EstelleF
1  
A perfume with personality
I've tried many men's perfumes and colognes to see if I could find one that suited a more androgynous person, and Vetiver Bourbon, which I picked up on a whim, is by far my favorite out of all of them. Starts out bold, confidently spicy and fresh with the coriander note, then slowly mellows into a smooth, rich vetiver and finally a lingering, heavier but not overpowering scent. Classy, mature, not at all attention-seeking. The longevity is decent but not remarkable; the sillage is definitely weaker than it should be (my mom and dad both only noticed it when I asked them separately if they liked my new fragrance), but I can still recommend Vetiver Bourbon for the scent itself, especially considering the price. I've smelled longer-lasting fragrances from Monotheme, for better and for worse, but when I want to wear something a bit more discreet and refreshing, this is always my go-to scent.
0 Comments
Yatagan

415 Reviews
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Yatagan
Yatagan
Top Review 51  
The Dispute Over the Emperor's Beard
Uncommented Scents No. 42

I still believe that the two most beautiful vetiver fragrances are the classics from Carven (1957) and Guerlain (1959), which are actually the first two well-known and successful vetiver scents on the market in this order. The current formulation from Carven is less successful, while Guerlain's is overall better, although it has had a very scratchy top note for several years now. The two original compositions were significantly rounder; indeed, the pinnacle of all vetiver compositions.

Of course, I am right in this assumption, as I would never allow other opinions to hold sway, just like all the other vetiver enthusiasts in the world who have surely found their own favorite scent in the realm of vetiver.

When I expand the range of vetiver-containing fragrances, my favorite scent Timbuktu from L'Artisan naturally also belongs to the vetiver scents, but it has such a distorted tone, such a unique note, that one could argue whether it can still be considered a vetiver scent in the narrower sense.

In general: Disputing. The debate over the emperor's beard, which vetiver scent is truly the best, most beautiful, most distinctive, most masculine, most feminine (there are also those) or the one with the best price-performance ratio, is fought anew here and elsewhere every year. Guerlain's Vetiver is exalted to the heavens or condemned; Timbuktu is alternately criticized as boring or praised as a stroke of genius.

I personally don't care at all. Because I know best which vetiver scent is the most beautiful. This is of little interest to you out there, but if you want to know which (besides Timbuktu, of course) is currently ONE of the most beautiful vetiver scents on the market for me, then listen closely now:

It is a vetiver scent from this incredible, truly fabulous line of affordable Monotheme fragrances, which was kindly provided to me in the form of a sample by the friendly DuftDoktor without a prescription in exchange. Thank you very much for that!

I would hardly have thought to test this scent myself, as whenever I read Bourbon, I suspect a vanilla-laden monstrosity in the base or heart note that I really dislike. Vanilla is nice and all, but scents and perfumers that overdo it can keep it. I don’t want to smell like grandma's crumble or apple pie (which I have always loved: for eating, mind you). All this does not exclude a pinch of vanilla at all (what would Shalimar be without this substance) and moreover, vanilla does not appear in this specific case at all, - but more on that later.

Back to Monotheme's Vetiver Bourbon. What immediately stands out: Vetiver Bourbon smells clear and distinctly of vetiver (even if other fresh components are also recognizable: lemon, which pleases me, bergamot oil, which I appreciate in scents and in tea), but so gentle and subtle that really no one (not even ladies who usually recoil at vetiver like the princess at the pea) could object to it. The balance between earthy-bitter-sour and gentle is so successful here that Monotheme even leaves the niche fragrance competitor Diptyque with its Vetyverio behind, which I previously considered the most successful soft vetiver on the market.

According to my research, the designation Vetiver Bourbon is not a combination of vetiver and bourbon vanilla, but rather a special variety of vetiver grass or oil that contains this round bourbon note, thus being finer and less earthy in scent.

Specifically, it can be described that the best quality of vetiver oil is produced in Réunion, followed by Haiti and Java. However, the oil from Réunion is referred to as Vetiver Bourbon due to its high quality. This could well have been used in Monotheme's Vetiver, even if it is not mentioned in the fragrance notes, but simply referred to as vetiver.

Since the scent fades incredibly round and soft, I am inclined to believe the manufacturer that the highly controversial, but for me extremely beloved oak moss is indeed found in the base and not a synthetic substitute. Sandalwood can also be discernibly sensed; however, one must know it through the manufacturer's information, as it is hardly recognizable, remaining subtle in the background. Sandalwood-heavy scents are usually too soft and creamy for my taste. This is not the case here at all. Everything remains light and bright, subtle and soft, with an underlying masculine-bitter note centered around vetiver; ultimately, however, it is also a unisex scent.

The longevity is good; I probably don’t need to say a word more about the wonderful shape of the bottle. It is classic and beautiful.

For me, the dispute over the emperor's beard is settled: if not Timbuktu (or Guerlain and Carven in the old formula), then Monotheme Vetiver Bourbon.

But as it is with the emperor's beard and one of the possible origins of this saying: As the German historian Johannes Fried explains in his latest work on Charlemagne, it is really not possible to say with certainty which beard the emperor actually wore before or after the year 800. It was probably not a full beard. What is certain is that he died in 814 and we may celebrate his 1200th death anniversary this year. And that Monotheme Vetiver Bourbon is the most beautiful of all vetiver scents. Really!
32 Comments
Turandot

839 Reviews
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Turandot
Turandot
Top Review 45  
Bingo!
Yatagan is right: Essentially, this is a unisex fragrance. This is exactly the kind of perfume I was referring to when I complained on my blog about how difficult it is to find a scent that is free of sweetness, one that I can feel comfortable with every day and that clears my head. It also helps me, as a morning grouch, to get going. And what I appreciate about it: Even after hours, nothing becomes annoying, and throughout the day, I don’t feel the need to switch to something else.

Well, Monotheme claims that the scent is for the gentlemen of creation - which it is. But dear ladies who love your Alliage, Wrappings, Cabochard & co., you don’t need to have hair on your chest to enjoy this soft vetiver scent. It is also not praised with harsh wood, incense, or spirit notes that make it tough, as the fragrance does not carry masculinity like a banner.
I don’t really find the perfume monothematic either, as in addition to vetiver, artemisia, or mugwort, and coriander provide spice, while the orange blossom adds a bit of Mediterranean summer feeling without becoming as overwhelming and intrusive as is often the case with current fragrances.
I almost enjoy the base of sandalwood and oak moss with reverence, as who knows how long we will still be able to get something like this.

Sure, there are more refined and "precious" vetiver fragrances. However, they are not necessarily better in terms of the theme. It’s like with gourmet cuisine: It may be more sophisticated - but Monotheme serves me simple, clean, and absolutely perfect home cooking - perfect - but never banal or even boring.
13 Comments
Fittleworth

89 Reviews
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Fittleworth
Fittleworth
Top Review 30  
A fragrance like the Grand Party!
Take a seat, Mr. Jeheimrat! Well, what brings you back to my little salon? I haven't seen you here in my establishment for quite some time...
Everything as usual? Haircut?
Shave, perhaps? But of course, but right away...

Been traveling again, have you, sir?
What do you prefer?
Aaaah... Italy.
I believe your soul has been uplifted there...
Rome? Venice? Catania? Taormina?
Well, I would call that a grand party, just like the old Erdmannsdorf used to say, I could almost be envious.

Now, please turn your noble head to the other side so I can properly lather you up. No, please don't open your mouth just yet, because of the shaving foam, sir...

Where was I?
Ah yes, Italy. Classical education and grand parties...
What do you mean? Oh, on the ship? All the way down the coast to the south?
Fabulous!
And back on the other side? So that's what the educated person calls Dalmatia? That's culture in its purest form, as I always say.
Yes, everyone should see that at least once in their life.
Ah yes, all those old villages there... Split and Dubrovnik...
I always say, Korianke, I tell myself, if a person doesn't engage with the old antiquity and doesn't travel to Italy, Greece, and Dalmatia to see it, then they haven't truly lived.
Because they don't know what beauty is.
I only say: noble simplicity and quiet grandeur!

So, now please lean your esteemed head back, Mr. Jeheimrat... I want to make you look splendid all around, it shouldn't be one-sided.
Where was I?

Oh right, Dalmatia.
So that light there and the lovely fresh air and the little islands... blue sea, blue sky, what more could a person want?

What do you prefer, sir?
Exactly, the air there has a very unique note. They should bottle it in small vials and sell it.
What do you mean, something like that exists? You don't know me well, Mr. Jeheimrat!

As luck would have it, I can actually provide that!
Well, of course, who else but the old Korianke?
You see, you must turn to me. I have just the right thing for you.
There’s a fragrance, it’s a cloud, how it smells. Heavenly, I can assure you!
It’s called Vetiver.
No, no, now don’t be alarmed, Mr. Jeheimrat. I know you are a connoisseur. Of course, Vetiver is not just Vetiver.
But you will agree with me when I boldly claim that not all expensive waters are necessarily the best, am I right or am I right, Mr. Jeheimrat?
You see, and that’s why I want to inspire you for a little Italian company that has launched extraordinarily fine fragrances on the market. They call themselves Monotheme, and this Vetiver they sell is simply a spectacle.

You see, a gentleman of your standing must also smell discreet, fresh, and noble, don’t you agree? I always say, everything must match. From the hand-stitched shoes to the tailored jacket. And that also includes a fragrance that not everyone has. So it shouldn't be something that every Tom, Dick, and Harry splashes on their shirt.
Korianke, I always tell myself, just not that sweet stuff they want to sell us as modern and chic. They can keep that sugary brew, the gentlemen.

What do you prefer, sir...?
Exactly, that’s what I mean! And this Vetiver, which the Monotheme company has additionally named with Bourbon, suits your appearance like a glove, if you allow me that comparison.

What do you mean?
No, with Bourbon, I don’t mean the similarly named whiskey has made its way into this fragrance. It’s rather a very special kind of Vetiver. Spicy, but light, if you can follow me.
I find the opening very appealing. Bergamot, what else? It’s classic. But so cleverly mixed with coriander, I wouldn’t have guessed it right away. Of course, lemon is in there, you can tell that too, but it’s very subtle and restrained, that’s what makes the freshness. And then there’s artemisia, well, I had to think for a moment about what that actually is. A plant, someone whispered to me, that smells a bit like wormwood. It gives off a fresh, cool scent, but on the other hand also radiates a certain woody warmth, it’s truly quite fabulous!
Fresh and masculine, just as you like it, Mr. Jeheimrat.

Just a moment, let me wipe the shaving foam from the corners of your mouth, then you can breathe better. Well, is that a shave again? Yes, just feel it, smooth as a baby's bottom! This is still real craftsmanship... learned is indeed learned!

Where was I?
Ah yes - fresh and masculine.
So to make it all well-rounded and not prickly, they’ve added sandalwood and oak moss, as is fitting for a men’s fragrance.
No, I wouldn’t call this old-fashioned at all, quite the opposite!
And it’s equally suitable for spring and autumn. You can wear it anytime, it always fits.

Now I’ve been waiting for that question.
Of course, the old Korianke has this fragrance at hand!
Would I recommend it to you otherwise, Mr. Jeheimrat?
Would you like to...?
Just a moment, let me take away the handkerchief. So, now I can spray you. First on the wrist...?

Well, that was clear to me, Mr. Jeheimrat.
Yes, I was also surprised when I first smelled it. Cool and noble, isn’t it? But also somehow warm and a bit woody, if I may say so again...

No, this is truly remarkable! If I tell you how little such a bottle costs, then you’ll perk up your esteemed ears!
I thought so. I’m very pleased if you like it so much.
No, hardly any other gentleman in our regions has it, I’m sure of that.
You can make a name for yourself with it...

Most sincere thanks, Mr. Jeheimrat!
Recommendation to the esteemed Mrs. Jemahlte!
Do come back soon!
23 Comments
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Statements

29 short views on the fragrance
4
A fresh and 'alcoholic' vetiver, very good to use in spring and summer. Reminds me of a vetiver eau de cologne, beautiful.
0 Comments
18
9
Dandy-Vetiver: fine, less earthy Bourbon vetiver root with citrusy and herbal components at an outrageously low price.
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9 Comments
18
7
Radiantly bright hesperides
Turquoise like the Caribbean Sea
Shimmering silky soft glow
Flawless vetiver
On creamy soft painted mosses
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7 Comments
5 years ago
14
6
Vetiver almost pure. Fresh, green with a hint of citrus. Delightfully natural scent with just a subtle soapy note in the finish. Spring-like and beautiful.
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6 Comments
11
9
Unisex! Citrusy-fresh-spicy Artemisia opening, pleasantly soft vetiver heart, beautiful oak moss. H/S medium*
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9 Comments
11
7
All facets of vetiver are harmoniously represented here: fresh, green but also earthy, dry. Great for beginners given the price!
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7 Comments
5 years ago
10
7
Gentle vetiver with a supportive green company, a hint of O-flower makes it fresh & smooth. Beautiful V-variation without any annoying factors.
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7 Comments
9
4
Another proof that there are good scents for a smaller budget. Vetiver semi-fresh and lightly floral blended. A lovely all-rounder!
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4 Comments
9
2
Very noble, cool scent that beautifully composes the theme of vetiver!
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2 Comments
9
The probably freshest and softest vetiver scent I know. And it's so affordable too! Take that niche...
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