Vetiver Gris - Jacques Fath

The composition blends Vetiver, Galbanum, and Iris—exclusively from roots and rhizomes—a subtle nod to the glorious origins of rigorous, high-standard perfumery. It is then enlivened with Neroli, Mandarin, and a Hazelnut Accord, bringing a bright, perfectly modern charm. The formula is concise and precise, each ingredient positioned with absolute clarity and purpose.

THE STORY – By Lionel Palles

What if beautiful stories made beautiful perfumes?

It is so uncommon that it has to be mentioned: VETIVER GRIS was born from the perfumer’s passionate desire to work with a house he holds in unwavering admiration. This perfumer is Jean-Christophe Hérault (IFF), and the house of excellence is Jacques Fath.

“I was following Rania Naim, Creative Director of Jacques Fath, on Instagram one day when she explained how “L’Iris de Fath” had been faithfully recreated according to the original formula. I deeply admired her approach—the audacity and the respect for high-level perfumery. I sent her a message, asking permission to smell this masterpiece firsthand. That summer, we met and spoke for an entire afternoon, and I left with a bottle of Green Water, another timeless classic, which I wore all weekend. I felt that something was happening, that admiration was turning into desire.”

Rania did not fail to mention that she exclusively collaborates with independent perfumers, keeping a respectful distance from the major perfume houses. Yet, Jean-Christophe “secretly” chose to develop a scent around a Vetiver accord—a nod to an iconic ingredient in fine perfumery—and shared a photo of his trials on Instagram. Rania immediately picked up her phone and challenged him: “I want to smell!” She tried it, loved it, and carried the assay to Corsica, testing it on her husband and son. Guests at the hotel stopped them to praise this scented signature. The creation was approved. Vetiver Gris by Jacques Fath was born in the spontaneity of passion.

“It was also Jean-Christophe who proposed the name, a respectful and playful tribute to Iris Gris,” adds Rania.

Top notes: Mandarin essence, hazelnut Accord, Orange Bigarade LMR

Heart notes: Neroli Essence LMR, Geranium Essence Madagascar LMR, Galbanum Resinoid LMR

Base notes: Iris concrete LMR, Vetiver Java LMR, Vetiver Haiti Concentrated for Life LMR, Sinfonide

Perfumer: Jean-Christophe Hérault