Diptyque — Orphéon (Eau de Parfum)

Launched in 2021 to celebrate Diptyque’s 60th anniversary, Orphéon takes its name from the legendary bar on the historic Boulevard Saint-Germain in Paris, a favourite gathering spot for artists and the maison’s founders in the early 1960s.

Perfumer Olivier Pescheux has reimagined that atmosphere: a bohemian spirit, subdued jazz, wisps of smoke, polished wood, and late-night conversations. The notes are vivid and distinct: opening with juniper berries, a heart of jasmine, and a warm base of cedar, tonka bean, and talc-like powder.

Every spritz invites you to immerse yourself in an elegant era, full of creativity and connection: refined, intense, and memorable.

Scent Profile.

Orphéon opens with a spicy, resinous freshness of juniper berries that softens into a floral jasmine heart; the base is warm and talc-like, with cedar and tonka bean adding softness and a velvety trail. The overall effect evokes vintage cosmetic powder meeting polished wood with a subtle gourmand touch —imagine the scent of a Saint-Germain bar in the 1960s, a mix of gin & tonic, talc, and polished wood.

Impression & Experience.

Gender-fluid: Orphéon works well in the evening and during transitional seasons, with a nocturnal, slightly nostalgic character. Many describe it as “powdery,” “dressing room-like,” or reminiscent of shaving foam or talc—qualities that make it stand out from typical modern fougère or woody fragrances.

Longevity & Sillage.

Reviews highlight good lasting power on skin (several hours) with moderate sillage: it’s not overpowering and leaves a refined trail. More “intimate” than “announcement-making,” it suits those who prefer discreet elegance over loud seduction.

Value & Price.

Retailing at the high end of the niche/luxury segment (75ml around €170–€180), the price reflects the originality of the composition, quality of raw materials, and strong narrative identity. Worthwhile for those seeking something distinctive; for everyday “safe” wearers, it may seem costly.

Uniqueness & Strengths.

Distinctive olfactory profile: juniper berries + tonka bean + cedar create a recognisable vintage-chic effect.

Narrative atmosphere: more than a scent, it tells a story of a place and time—appealing to collectors or those seeking a fragrance with personality.

Gender versatility: truly unisex, balanced between wood, powder, and florals.

Criticism.

Not ideal for those seeking very strong projection; sillage is elegant but contained.

Powdery, slightly classic profile; best suited to lovers of talc/cipriate fragrances. May feel “vintage” to those preferring fresh or citrus scents.

Who It’s For.

Recommended for those who appreciate fragrances with history and personality, niche perfumery enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an elegant alternative to classic woody or oriental scents. Less suited for those wanting high projection, mainstream fresh-aquatic scents, or metallic/rough accords.Final Verdict