A distinctive trait sets niche perfumes apart: the exclusivity of their scents, the quality of their raw materials, and the innovation in their formulations—attributes less common in mainstream perfumery, which simultaneously blends with the tradition of ancient perfumery. In 2019, intending to bring closer to the purest and most exquisite natural raw materials, Matiere Premiere emerged, created by Aurelien Guichard, the brand’s founder and a seventh-generation perfumer. This introduction of the brand serves as a letter of guarantee to true perfume lovers who seek to evoke sensations through sublime ingredients.
Respect for nature, fair trade, and organic production are the three pillars of this French perfumery house. So much so that Guichard cultivates Rosa Centifolia in the French region of Grasse, being the only one to grow this flower organically. Indeed, in 2018, UNESCO recognized this land as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Aurelien Guichard's style is deceptively simple—a perfume, one key ingredient. This creative approach shapes each olfactory creation of Matiere Premiere, which is formed around a high-dose natural raw material. The result is a perfect puzzle that elevates the different facets of each ingredient to perceive all its textures.
The 3 Most Iconic Perfumes of Matiere Premiere
RADICAL ROSE
This ‘soliflore’ spotlights Rosa Centifolia, cultivated by Guichard himself on his organic farm. It is an overdose of Rosa Centifolia Absolute that has become the collection's star, as it contains the highest concentration of this essence on the market. An intense and natural rose scent—that transports one to the French countryside with just a spritz—enhanced by the spicy chords of saffron oil and allspice berries, along with the mysterious touches of Indonesian patchouli oil and Andalusian labdanum absolute. A classic composition, yet contemporary for the nostalgic.
CRYSTAL SAFFRON
Since the days of Alexander the Great, who soaked his cloak in saffron essence, this aroma has become one of the most coveted throughout history. Not only for its high value, but also for the difficulty in harvesting it and its known aphrodisiac effect in some cultures. This perfume is so unique because it is the ultimate expression of saffron—the scarlet jewel of perfumery that does not bloom in spring—unlike the moderate usage found in other market creations. Its raw material, cultivated in the Greek region of Kozani, is considered the highest quality saffron in the world. The bright texture of this ingredient is outstandingly highlighted when combined with musk, ambroxan, and Somali frankincense oil. This olfactory synthesis projects a trail full of vivacity and almost addictive quality.
VANILLA POWDER
Vanilla may well be one of the most recognizable notes in perfumery, continuing to gain devotees as time passes. A fragrance that delights both vanilla and sweet perfume lovers, as well as those seeking a luxurious and refined yet modern scent. Guichard’s latest creation's success is due to its formula's carefully measured balance: its sweet and spicy heart (sourced from locally certified vanilla crops) is softened by palo santo oil. At the same time, the white musk adds a clean accord and turns it velvety. Vanilla Powder is the sublimation of the luxurious aroma exuded by vanilla pods under woolen cloths.
A brand philosophy that some may call radical and others praise as exceptional. Whatever the case, there is no doubt that Matiere Premiere has crafted a perfume that becomes that Proustian madeleine, which transports to the extraordinary past once believed to be forgotten.
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Last Updated on March 6, 2025 by Editorial Team
