Nothing says classic like the Givenchy Gentleman collection; since 1975, Givenchy has outdone itself. The best Givenchy Gentleman fragrances for men deliver a signature blend of iris, patchouli, and vetiver synonymous with class and refinement.
Few collections have the same pedigree as Givenchy Gentleman (even the bottles are a collector’s favourite), so look no further if you want a masculine fragrance to turn heads and ooze sophistication.
Best Givenchy Gentleman Fragrances
The best Givenchy Gentleman fragrances for men blend elegant notes of powdery iris with patchouli, wood, and leather. Here are seven to consider.
1. Gentleman Eau de Toilette
Review
Released in 2017, Gentleman Givenchy Eau de Toilette revitalises the original fragrance for the modern day. This aromatic scent radiates sophistication and mature, refined masculinity.
This EDT opens with fresh pear and earthy cardamom top notes before shifting into a powdery iris and masculine lavender heart.
Lastly, this fragrance finishes with rich leather, earthy patchouli and vanilla base. Settles to a powdery and fruity scent that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.
Top Notes:
Pear, Cardamom
Mid Notes:
Iris, Lavender
Base Notes:
Leather, Vanilla, Patchouli
Seasons & Longevity
This fragrance isn’t only sophisticated, but it’s versatile. You can wear this EDT day or night for casual or formal events, and it excels for every season except summer.
This classic fragrance can expect a moderate sillage & projection with excellent longevity of 6+ hours.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | A memorable rework of Givenchy Gentleman’s flagship product |
| Cons | Maybe a little too mature for the younger crowd |
2. Gentleman Eau de Parfum
Review
The 2018 release of Givenchy Gentleman Eau de Parfum is, if anything, a more potent version of its eau de toilette counterpart.
Black pepper and lavender give this aromatic fragrance its signature explosive opening. Subtle iris and sweet spices characterise its dynamic heart.
The EDP continues its charismatic sensuality upon dry-down with refined black vanilla and Peru balsam base notes. Settles to a warm and spicy powdery vanilla scent.
Top Notes:
Black Pepper, Lavender
Mid Notes:
Iris, Cloves, Cinnamon
Base Notes:
Black Vanilla, Peru Balsam, Patchouli
Seasons & Longevity
Sweet and powdery, the EDP is ideal for a cold-weather night out. While this fragrance keeps the sophistication of its brand, it’s nevertheless a far punchier and intense iteration of it, perfect for the fall and winter.
This EDP is striking in the best way possible; it has a strong sillage and projection. Plus, one application ensures 8+ hours of longevity.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Nobody can ignore this attention-seeking male fragrance |
| Cons | The EDP’s intensity is inappropriate for work or daytime wear, in my opinion |
3. Gentleman Only Eau de Toilette
Review
Givenchy’s 2013 release, Gentleman Only, is a modern, elegant Eau de Toilette. Although this fragrance is subtle, that’s part of its charm – Gentleman Only is for the discerning, modern man.
I feel this is a fresh take on a woody, aromatic scent. Pink pepper, birch leaf, and nutmeg top notes develop into a patchouli and vetiver heart for a fantastic burst of freshness.
The dry-down is equally nuanced and sensual, with a cedar and musk base with plenty of smoky incense. Settles to a smoky, woody male scent with a nice touch of bright citrus.
Top Notes:
Pink Pepper, Green Mandarin, Birch Leaf, Nutmeg
Mid Notes:
Vetiver, Patchouli
Base Notes:
Incense, Musk, Cedar
Seasons & Longevity
Gentleman Only is your best friend during spring, summer, and fall. It’s an excellent day perfume and will have you smelling your freshest during work, rest or play.
A single application of Gentleman Only gives you 5+ hours of longevity, albeit with a more intimate scent bubble than I expected.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Complex, inventive and unique |
| Cons | Gentleman Only plays it too safe for some and does not project too well |
4. Gentleman Original Eau de Toilette
Review
Since its inception in 1975, Givenchy Gentleman Original Eau de Toilette has retained its dominance as one of the most timelessly elegant male perfumes.
This woody-aromatic fragrance was revolutionary for its era and, even now, remains incredibly seductive.
Gentleman Original’s opening displays powerful cinnamon, tarragon, and honey notes. This head evolves into layers of vetiver and Givenchy’s signature patchouli.
Dries down into a Russian leather and oakmoss base, finally settling to a seductive mix of patchouli, rich honey and decadent leather with a touch of moss.
Top Notes:
Cinnamon, Tarragon, Honey
Mid Notes:
Patchouli, Vetiver
Base Notes:
Russian Leather, Oakmoss
Seasons & Longevity
Gentleman Original is perfect for cold weather; you can wear it during the day or at night. This classically dignified perfume will suit any occasion if you have the gravitas to match it.
Expect 7+ of wear with Gentleman Original and powerful projection for the first 3 hours. This Eau de Toilette’s excellent trail will let everyone know that you are a man of culture.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | An undisputedly classic masculine fragrance |
| Cons | Because of its age, most people associate Gentleman Original with older men – wear it with discretion if you’re under thirty |
5. Gentleman Eau de Toilette Intense
Review
The 2021 Givenchy Gentleman Eau de Toilette Intense is a striking balance of tender woody smoothness and brisk aromatic freshness similar to Prada L’Homme Eau de Toilette.
Opening with basil and bergamot, this fragrance is initially sweet and refreshing. The heart of powdery, creamy blue iris and woody cypress add class.
This scent reveals coumarin and cedar in the base, finishing as a woody aromatic scent that will leave you confident, classy, and ready to take on the world.
Top Notes:
Cardamom, Basil, Bergamot
Mid Notes:
Cypress, Iris
Base Notes:
Coumarin, Cedar
Seasons & Longevity
EDT Intense is a smooth, crisp fragrance – tailor-made for a frosty spring or fall, day or night.
This fragrance performs well – expect at least 6+ hours of longevity per application. As well as that, EDT Intense has a long, captivating trail and noticeable projection.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | A decadent, versatile fragrance ideal for younger men |
| Cons | Some may find its underlying iris creaminess a little too sweet |
6. Gentleman Eau de Parfum Boisee
Review
Givenchy Gentleman Eau de Parfum Boisee is a spicier take on the legendary Givenchy Gentleman formula and was launched in 2020.
This masculine perfume opens with compliment-getting black pepper, coriander and hints of aromatic geranium essence.
Soon, heart notes of iris, cedar, and cacao notes seep through, giving this fragrance a smooth, powdery edge. The dry-down continues this decadence with sandalwood and patchouli aromas.
Top Notes:
Black Pepper, Geranium, Coriander
Mid Notes:
Iris, Cacao, Cedar
Base Notes:
Sandalwood, Patchouli
Seasons & Longevity
Givenchy Gentleman Eau de Parfum Boisee will last 6+ hours with decent projection. The iris stays alive exceptionally well.
It’s an excellent autumn/winter/spring fragrance that leans more toward formal eveningwear, so one to dress up for!
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Givenchy Gentleman’s most versatile fragrance |
| Cons | The iris note may lean a little too unisex for some |
7. Gentleman Eau de Parfum Reserve Privée
Review
Boozy, heady, and sensual, Givenchy Gentleman Eau de Parfum Reserve Privée exudes raw confidence. This fragrance was launched in 2022 and smells similar to the classic Dior Homme Intense.
Its bergamot opening is complemented by smooth notes of whiskey absolute. However, this fragrance soon takes on a classic iris and chestnut heart.
Ideal for signalling maturity, Privée oozes refinement, especially once its cedar and vetiver base kick in. It’s woody, powdery, boozy and expensive smelling.
Top Notes:
Bergamot, Whiskey Absolute
Mid Notes:
Iris, Chestnut, Benzoin
Base Notes:
Cedarwood, Vetiver, Patchouli
Seasons & Longevity
Longevity is excellent, easily 8+ hours. Its sillage is decent, too, as is the generous projection.
Overall, this fragrance is great for winter and fall, and I would say it is well-suited for a classy night out on the town.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Excellent boozy accords with plenty of wood and iris |
| Cons | Not a daytime scent at all, so less versatile than other scents in the Gentleman collection |
Andrew’s Top Pick
Givenchy Gentleman Eau de Parfum Reserve Privée
My top pick has to be Gentleman Eau de Parfum Reserve Privée due to its magnificent boozy, woody and powdery persona.
This Givenchy fragrance lives up to its Gentleman status; it’s luxury personified.
Conclusion
To conclude, the best Givenchy Gentleman fragrance for men is high-class and will distinguish you from the crowd; plus, there’s a wide range of options.
The Gentleman Only and Gentleman EDT versions are perfect if you’re looking for a daytime scent. However, if you prefer evening wear, you can’t go wrong with the Givenchy Gentleman Eau de Parfum or Givenchy Gentleman Privee.
Similarly, although Givenchy Gentleman has a reputation for maturity and refinement, consider trying one of these fragrances even if you’re a more laid-back guy. The EDP Intense is well-suited for a casual atmosphere.
Regardless of your choice, remember to try these fragrances in-store. Givenchy Gentleman fragrances can be slow to evolve, so ensure that you let them dry down for half an hour before purchasing.
Further Reading
Below are some additional articles from Viora London’s blog. We write articles on a number of interesting lifestyle topics such as fragrance, beauty, luxury accessories and more.
These Givenchy Gentleman fragrances are a must-try for men who appreciate refined scents that exude sophistication.