Cachet Noir by Prince Matchabelli c1983

Launched in 1983, Cachet Noir by Prince Matchabelli was introduced as an evening counterpart to their earlier fragrance, Cachet, which had gained popularity a few years prior. The name Cachet Noir was thoughtfully chosen to evoke a sense of sophistication and allure. "Cachet" is a French word meaning prestige or distinction, and "Noir" translates to "black" in French. Together, "Cachet Noir" suggests an elevated, enigmatic quality, embodying a sense of mystery and exclusivity.

The term "Cachet Noir" conjures images of luxurious sophistication and evening elegance. The word "Noir" implies a sense of depth and richness, hinting at a fragrance that is both bold and subtly intriguing. This name positions the perfume as a choice for evening wear, where a more intense and seductive scent is desired. The idea of "Noir" evokes emotions of allure and opulence, suggesting a fragrance that is perfect for sophisticated occasions where a deeper, more complex scent profile is appreciated.

In terms of interpretation, Cachet Noir would have been perceived as a statement fragrance. Its classification as a spicy oriental fragrance underscores its richness and warmth, with a spicy top that introduces the scent with a burst of aromatic intensity. The spicy floral woody heart continues this theme, offering a complex blend of spices and florals that create an enveloping and captivating presence. The base, with its warm, balsamic notes, provides a lasting impression that is both comforting and sensual.

During the early 1980s, the fragrance market was experiencing a shift towards more intense, bold scents that made a statement. Perfumes from this era often featured rich, exotic ingredients and complex compositions, catering to a growing desire for fragrances that conveyed a sense of sophistication and sensuality. Cachet Noir fit well within this trend, offering a distinctive and luxurious option for evening wear that aligned with the era's preference for deeper, more dramatic fragrances.

Women of the time would have likely related to Cachet Noir as a sophisticated and alluring choice, perfect for formal events and evening occasions. The name and fragrance profile would have resonated with those seeking a perfume that was both elegant and intriguingly complex, making it a fitting addition to the evening wardrobe of the era.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a spicy oriental fragrance for women. It begins with a spicy top, spicy floral woody heart, resting on a warm, balsamic base.

• Top notes: aldehydes, Calabrian bergamot, galbanum, fruity notes, cardamom and pimento
• Middle notes: Mysore sandalwood, styrax, East Indian vetiver, carnation, jasmine, rose, ylang-ylang, patchouli and cinnamon
• Base notes: leather, cistus, Abyssinian ambergris, benzoin, castoreum, cedar, labdanum, Abyssinian civet, oakmoss, olibanum and vanilla

Scent Profile:

Cachet Noir is a captivating spicy oriental fragrance that unfolds in a complex symphony of scents, revealing its intricate layers one by one. At first encounter, the top notes offer a vivid burst of aldehydes, delivering a fresh, slightly soapy brightness that invigorates the senses. The Calabrian bergamot adds a zesty, citrusy sparkle, reminiscent of sun-ripened fruits. 

Galbanum introduces a green, resinous quality, infusing a rich, earthy freshness that complements the citrus notes. A blend of fruity notes adds a touch of sweetness, enhancing the fragrance's initial allure with a hint of succulent, ripe fruit. The spices come into play with cardamom and pimento, which introduce a warm, aromatic kick, creating an intriguing contrast with the freshness of the top notes.

As the fragrance evolves, the heart reveals a deeply textured blend of spicy, floral, and woody elements. The heart is dominated by Mysore sandalwood, its creamy, woody richness forming a luxurious backdrop. Styrax contributes a balsamic, slightly resinous sweetness that adds depth and warmth. East Indian vetiver brings a green, earthy nuance, adding an element of natural richness. Carnation imparts a spicy floral quality, with its clove-like scent adding a touch of warmth and sophistication. 

The jasmine provides a lush, intoxicating floral note, enveloping you in its heady, sensual fragrance. Rose adds a classic, romantic element with its velvety petals, while ylang-ylang introduces an exotic, creamy sweetness. The patchouli adds an earthy, slightly smoky dimension, perfectly balanced by the warm spiciness of cinnamon, which rounds out the heart with its comforting, aromatic warmth.

The base notes of Cachet Noir provide a rich, deep finish. The leather note adds a robust, slightly smoky quality, evoking the scent of polished, well-worn leather. Cistus contributes a warm, resinous depth, with its balsamic sweetness enhancing the fragrance's complexity. Abyssinian ambergris imparts a rich, marine warmth, adding a touch of exoticism. Benzoin offers a sweet, vanilla-like resin that smooths out the base with its rich, creamy scent. 

Castoreum brings an animalic, slightly leathery nuance, adding an element of intrigue. The cedar provides a crisp, woody note, while labdanum adds a resinous, amber-like warmth. Abyssinian civet introduces a musky, animalic undertone that enhances the fragrance's depth. Oakmoss contributes an earthy, green richness, reminiscent of a damp forest floor. Olibanum (frankincense) adds a smoky, resinous quality that deepens the fragrance's complexity. Finally, vanilla rounds out the composition with its creamy, sweet warmth, providing a comforting and inviting finish.

Together, these elements create a fragrance that is both richly layered and beautifully balanced, capturing the essence of sophistication and allure in a spicy oriental blend.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Cachet Noir was discontinued at an unspecified date, though it remained available for purchase as late as 1986. Despite its eventual withdrawal from the market, the fragrance continued to captivate and allure, maintaining its presence for several years after its introduction.

The enduring availability of Cachet Noir into the mid-1980s suggests that it held a special place in the hearts of its users. Its rich, spicy oriental profile, designed as an evening fragrance, retained its appeal long after its initial launch. The perfume's distinctive blend of spicy, floral, and woody notes, combined with its sophisticated aura, ensured that it remained a cherished choice for those seeking a touch of elegance and intrigue in their scent.

The fact that Cachet Noir was still sold several years after its debut speaks to its success and the lasting impression it made. Even as the fragrance world evolved and new trends emerged, Cachet Noir continued to offer a unique and compelling option for those who appreciated its deep, warm, and balsamic character.