PHOTO COURTESY OF HERMÈS
Fans of Hermès fragrances are probably familiar with contemporary favourites like Barénia and Twilly d’Hermès. However, did you know that the maison also launched an exclusive fragrance collection called Hermessence in 2024? As its name suggests, it embodies the very essence of the French luxury house.
When it debuted, then in-house perfumer Jean-Claude Ellena described the fragrances as olfactory poems. Each is a minimalist composition that prizes emotion and imagination over convention. This philosophy was evident from the original quartet: Ambre Narguilé, Rose Ikebana, Vétiver Tonka and Poivre Samarcande. They set the tone for a poetic collection that celebrates creative freedom through unexpected ingredient pairings.
Inspired by Hermès’ signature saddle stitch, where two needles and a single thread come together to create lasting strength, each Hermessence fragrance similarly unites two exceptional raw materials to unveil an entirely new olfactory expression. The collection has since grown to include the likes of Osmanthe Yunnan, Iris Ukiyoé, Santal Massoïa, Épice Marine and Cuir d’Ange. They also come in eau de toilette, eau de parfum and essence formulations.
Christine Nagel, who took over as in-house perfumer in 2016, further expanded the family. She created Agar Ébène, Cèdre Sambac, Cardamusc, Myrrhe Églantine, Musc Pallida, Violette Volynka and, more recently, Oud Alezan. This brings us to the newest addition, Ginseng Biloba. Anchoring the 18th fragrance to join the collection is the first ginseng absolute ever created for Hermès.
Inspired by one of Nagel’s personal scent memories of Asia, the eau de parfum pairs its radiant, woody character with the airy freshness of ginkgo leaves, reminiscent of trees she passed each day while walking to work. The new arrival comes in the same signature lantern-shaped flacon but is instantly recognisable. Referencing the colour of ginseng, its Swift calfskin leather cap comes in yellow, complete with Hermès’ iconic saddle stitching and Clou de Selle engraving.
PHOTO COURTESY OF HERMÈS
The Hermessence fragrances are available in 100 ML editions (SGD525) alongside 200 ML refills (SGD756). For a travel-friendly size or to create a personal fragrance wardrobe, compose-your-own sets comprising four or eight 15 ML bottles are also available. Perfumed body creams offer yet another way to experience selected scents. The new Ginseng Biloba joins the full collection at all Hermès Singapore stores and online from 1 August 2026.
