This is probably one of the cleanest, freshest fragrances I’ve ever known. Its zestiness invokes a delightful sense of Springtime, citrus orchards, and oceanic vibes all rolled into one vibrant package. Launched by designer Issey Miyake in 1994, the name L’Eau d’Issey translates to “The Water of Issey.” Colognes around this time mainly trended towards heavier, spicier, and definitely warmer fragrances, making L’Eau d’Issey stand out as a breath of fresh air, and its aquatic-citrus style became enormously influential throughout the rest of the 1990s and beyond. The fragrance was inspired by water, clean and pure, and the minimalist approach to Issey Miyake’s design philosophy. Despite its air of simplicity, L’Eau d’Issey has a rather extensive combination of notes. While its signature note is Yuzu, a Japanese fruit that smells brighter and sharper than Lemon, giving this scent its unmistakable sparkling freshness, its top notes also include Lemon, Bergamot, Mandarin, Verbena, Cypress, Coriander, Sage, and Tarragon. All blending seamlessly into its heart of watery florals are notes of Blue Lotus, Water Lily, Nutmeg, Geranium, Saffron, and Cinnamon. Gently leading to a smooth, herbal, and woody combination of Vetiver, Cedar, Sandalwood, Musk, Amber, and Tobacco in the drydown. More than 30 years after its release, L’Eau d’Issey remains one of the most recognizable scents ever created, influencing countless fragrances that followed, making it a genuine landmark in modern perfumery.