Private Collection Querelle

Querelle by Pierre Guillaume Paris is a minimalist, masculine-leaning aromatic oriental with a central focus on smoky incense, resinous myrrh, and heartiness provided by vetiver and oak moss. It begins with a sharp, slightly bitter blend of black caraway, cinnamon, and citruses—initially noted as surges of dry, dusty, or 'out-of-date' notes by some—but quickly transforms into a subdued, resinous dark-green harmony. Over time, the dominant impression is of weathered wood, incense-smoke, and a quiet incense-leathery earthiness that feels deeply personal and intimate. The fragrance leans heavily into a chypre-like profile, with minimal sweetness and almost no florals, giving it a formal, elegant tone reminiscent of old-world masculinity. Some wearers describe it as tactile, cloaked in shadows, with a secret warmth that deepens as the scent dries down. It performs best in cooler seasons, especially winter or autumn, and is typically worn at night, where its quiet sillage and intimate depth blend well with nighttime atmospheres. Despite its polished surface, the scent reveals a rougher undercurrent—dirt beneath the polish, adventure beneath the manners—making it ideal for those who seek depth over novelty.