Cachet by Prince Matchabelli c1970

Launched in 1970, Cachet by Prince Matchabelli was a bold statement in the perfume industry, embodying sophistication and individuality. The choice of the name "Cachet" was a strategic one, reflecting the French word that denotes prestige, distinction, and a unique mark of approval. In this context, "Cachet" suggests an aura of exclusivity and refinement, qualities that Prince Matchabelli aimed to convey through this fragrance. The name evokes images of high status and elegance, positioning the perfume as a symbol of personal distinction.

The term "Cachet," rooted in French, implies a sense of authenticity and uniqueness. It brings to mind an elevated status and a mark of distinction, enhancing the fragrance’s allure. In the realm of perfume, "Cachet" would be interpreted as a scent that is not only luxurious but also tailored to enhance the wearer’s personal charm. The name suggests that the fragrance possesses an innate quality that complements and amplifies the individual characteristics of those who wear it.

In the context of the early 1970s, Cachet was introduced during a period marked by diverse and evolving trends in fragrance. The era was characterized by a fascination with bold, innovative scents that combined classic elements with new, daring combinations. Cachet’s classification as an animalic floral chypre fragrance was quite fitting for the time, reflecting a blend of traditional chypre notes with modern, sensual undertones. Its spicy aldehydic top notes, sultry woody floral heart, and warm, leathery mossy base aligned well with the prevailing tastes of the decade, which embraced both complexity and sensuality in perfumes.

The introductory advertisements for Cachet emphasized its unique ability to interact with the wearer’s body chemistry, claiming that it would enhance and play up each individual's special qualities. This marketing approach was designed to resonate with women seeking a fragrance that offered both freshness and a distinctive personal touch. By highlighting the perfume’s capacity to adapt to personal chemistry, Prince Matchabelli tapped into a desire for individuality and self-expression, making Cachet a compelling choice for women looking to assert their own unique style in the early 1970s.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as an animalic floral chypre fragrance for women. It starts off with a spicy aldehydic top, followed by a sultry woody floral heart, resting on a warm, leathery, mossy base. Sophisticated floral, slightly oriental, mossy.

• Top notes: aldehydes, herbaceous note, spice note, and galbanum
• Middle notes: patchouli, orris root, jasmine, East Indian vetiver and Oriental rose
• Base notes: Abyssinian ambergris, oakmoss, leather, Tibetan musk, and Abyssinian civet

My bottle of Cachet cologne is vintage 1970s, very heavy with the oakmoss and vetiver. I dabbed a little on my wrist and well, it is not something I particularly like as I am not usually fond of chypres, my husband took a whiff of it on my arm and said it is a scent he "would buy for his mother" and not his wife.

Scent Profile:

Cachet, classified as an animalic floral chypre fragrance, unfolds with a compelling blend of notes that create a rich, multi-dimensional experience. The top notes are characterized by an invigorating burst of aldehydes, which impart a sparkling, soapy freshness that immediately captures attention. This is complemented by a herbaceous note, which adds a green, slightly bitter edge, and a spice note that introduces a warm, piquant complexity. 

The introduction is further enriched by the resinous and slightly sweet aroma of galbanum, which lends a subtle, earthy green nuance to the initial impression.

As the fragrance evolves, it transitions into a sultry woody floral heart. Here, the lush, velvety scent of patchouli intertwines with the rich, powdery depth of orris root, creating a sophisticated and intriguing combination. Jasmine brings a touch of floral opulence, its heady and intoxicating aroma blending seamlessly with the exotic warmth of East Indian vetiver. Oriental rose adds a touch of romantic floral sweetness, enhancing the complexity of the heart with its rich, velvety texture.

The base notes of Cachet present a warm, leathery, and mossy foundation. Abyssinian ambergris imparts a deep, resinous warmth, its complex, slightly marine character providing a luxurious depth. Oakmoss contributes a classic chypre base with its earthy, woody facets, grounding the fragrance with its rich, mossy aroma. 

The inclusion of leather adds a bold, animalic edge, while Tibetan musk brings a warm, sensual undertone that blends seamlessly with the earthy, slightly animalic scent of Abyssinian civet. This combination creates a lasting impression of sophistication and sensuality, anchoring Cachet as a complex and alluring fragrance.

The American Home, Volume 80, 1977:

"Cachet by Prince Matchabelli is a complex blend of florals with lingering notes that are ambery, mossy, woody, and musky. It's designed to smell totally different for each wearer."

Fate of the Fragrance:

Cachet, originally introduced in 1970, became a signature scent of its era with its distinctive blend of animalic floral chypre notes. However, the original formulation of Cachet was discontinued around 1990, marking the end of an influential chapter in its fragrance legacy. The perfume’s sophisticated blend of spicy aldehydes, sultry woods, and warm, mossy base notes had captivated many, but changing trends and evolving consumer preferences led to its phase-out.

In response to continued interest and demand, Cachet was reformulated and relaunched in 1995. This new version aimed to capture the essence of the original while adapting to contemporary tastes. Despite the reformulation’s efforts to revive the beloved scent, it too was eventually discontinued. The second iteration, though appreciated by some, could not fully recapture the original's magic or match the nostalgia associated with its initial launch. As a result, Cachet remains a cherished memory for those who experienced its unique blend of floral, woody, and animalic notes during its brief presence in the market.

• Top notes: aldehydes, green grass, bergamot, spices and galbanum
• Middle notes: patchouli, orris root, jasmine, vetiver and rose
• Base notes: amber, sandalwood, leather, musk

Scent Profile:

Cachet opens with an invigorating burst of aldehydes, their crisp, soapy freshness immediately filling the air with a clean and modern vibrancy. The aldehydes are quickly joined by the verdant, slightly sweet scent of green grass, which brings a natural, dewy quality to the forefront. This fresh green note is complemented by the bright, citrusy sparkle of bergamot, adding a tangy lift. 

A subtle blend of spices introduces a warm, intriguing complexity, hinting at the deeper layers to come. The galbanum, with its green, resinous character, enhances the overall freshness while contributing a hint of bitterness, setting the stage for the fragrance's evolving journey.

As the scent develops, the heart reveals a sophisticated blend of patchouli and orris root. The patchouli’s earthy, woody aroma imparts a sense of depth and richness, while the orris root adds a smooth, powdery elegance that softens the intensity of the patchouli. 

Jasmine and rose intertwine in this floral heart, their lush, velvety scents offering a soft, romantic touch. Jasmine's intoxicating sweetness merges seamlessly with the rose’s classic, rich fragrance, creating a harmonious and inviting bouquet. The vetiver contributes an earthy, slightly smoky edge, grounding the floral notes and enhancing the composition's complexity.

In the base, amber envelops the scent in a warm, golden embrace, its sweet and resinous aroma providing a comforting, slightly balsamic finish. Sandalwood adds a creamy, woody facet, deepening the fragrance with its smooth, velvety texture. Leather introduces a sophisticated, slightly animalic edge, contributing to the overall richness and complexity. 

Finally, a hint of musk lingers, adding a subtle, sensual warmth that perfectly rounds out the fragrance. Together, these base notes create a deeply resonant and lasting impression, leaving a trail of elegance and sophistication.

Regardless of whether you favor the original vintage Cachet or the 1990s reformulation, Cachet holds a special place in the hearts of those who grew up wearing it. For many, Cachet represents a cherished classic, a fragrance that evokes fond memories and timeless elegance. The original version, with its complex blend of aldehydes, spices, and earthy undertones, has a distinctive character that remains beloved by its devotees. Similarly, the reformulated version from the 1990s brought a fresh perspective while retaining the essence of the classic scent.

For those seeking to relive their memories or discover this iconic fragrance anew, Cachet can still be found online. Whether in its vintage form or the later iteration, Cachet continues to be a treasured choice for those who appreciate its sophisticated and enduring charm. The availability of Cachet on the secondary market ensures that this beloved perfume remains accessible to both longtime fans and new admirers alike.