Benoist Lapouza: Harmonizing Nature and Emotion in Fragrance

Benoist Lapouza

Benoist Lapouza is a distinguished French perfumer celebrated for his ability to intertwine natural elements with emotional depth in his creations. Originally trained as a cellist, Lapouza's transition into the world of perfumery was guided by the legendary Pierre Bourdon. His career commenced at Takasago in 1986, followed by significant roles at Quest (now Givaudan) and Fragrance Resources, where he eventually became the creation director. In 2014, he joined the Parisian fine fragrance team at Drom, further solidifying his influence in the industry.

Lapouza's creative process is deeply inspired by his experiences and passions. He draws from his love for sailing, scuba diving, and global travels, aiming to encapsulate sensations of vastness, freedom, and the essence of nature in his fragrances. Collaborations with renowned chefs like Alain Passard have also influenced his approach, treating ingredients as musical notes to craft symphonic olfactory compositions.

His portfolio boasts a range of notable fragrances:

  • Live Jazz by Yves Saint Laurent (1998): A vibrant composition reflecting the energy of jazz music.

  • Dolly Girl by Anna Sui (2003): A playful and youthful scent capturing whimsical femininity.

  • British Bouquet by Atkinsons (2013): A refined fragrance evoking classic British elegance.

  • Si Lolita by Lolita Lempicka (2009): A collaborative creation emphasizing delicate floral notes.

  • Fan di Fendi pour Homme (2012) and Acquarossa Fendi (2013): Fragrances developed in collaboration with Delphine Lebeau and François Demachy, showcasing modern masculinity and femininity.