The best woody colognes are a motley crew. Comparing them is not as straightforward as, say, aquatic or leather fragrances. Woody fragrances are much more broad, similar to floral ones, in that so many scents employ woody notes in their formulas. That’s because notes like cedar, vetiver, and sandalwood give scents a terrific fullness and longevity. They’re classic base notes, and prominent in many men’s and unisex scents. For this reason, their presence may not necessarily indicate that a scent is classifiably woody, so don’t assume it at first glance. Instead, give that scent a huff: If what you want is woody, then make sure it smells like a forest, alright?
When you do round up the best woody fragrances—as we’ve done below—you get a list of colognes that are among the most universally beloved for both wearers and those who encounter the wearer. Woody notes tend to wear well year round (though some colognes will dial up or down certain aspects to lean into one season or the other), and they tend to be terrific picks for one’s signature scent. But whether you’re in the market for a new daily spritz, or something to round out your parfum profile for different seasons, occasions, and moods, we’ve got something you’re going to love.
The Best Woody Colognes, According to GQ
The Best Woody Cologne Overall: Terre d’Hermès Eau Intense Vétiver
Hermès
Terre d’Hermès Eau Intense Vétiver
We’ve dedicated way too much space on the internet extolling the virtues of Terre d’Hermès, but every bit (byte?) of it has been worth it. Since its inception in 2006, its intoxicating blend of citrus, spicy pepper, and woody cedar has brought us nothing pure, unadulterated smelling pleasure. It’s earthy and citrusy, complex and fun to smell—enough to have your friends, colleagues, and strangers disregard all understandings of personal space so they can get an extra whiff.
Best Classic Woody Cologne: Ralph Lauren Polo EDT
Can there be anything more classic in the style space than Ralph Lauren? The Polo EDT has half a century under its belt, bringing a combination of sex appeal and professionalism so that it can fit in no matter the setting. Its woody and moody aroma is like a treat for the senses, and if we continue to smell like this for another half century, well, consider our noses tickled.
The Best Everyday Woody Cologne: YSL Myslf
YSL’s latest Myslf fragrance is an excellent contender for a daily spritzer, bringing woody and floral notes that create a complex and invigorating cocktail that’s fit for someone like Austin Butler. It easily transitions from day to night, and while you might get sick of your typical everyday fragrance, this one offers just the right amount of complementary fragrance notes to keep you on your toes day after day.
The Best Vetiver Cologne: Frédéric Malle Vetiver Extraordinaire
Frédéric Malle
Vetiver Extraordinaire
Technically vetiver isn’t wood—it’s more of a grass—but in fragrance it is one of the most common woody essences, and it is perhaps the most prominent base note used in men’s perfumery today. Frederic Malle’s exquisite vetiver scent casts a spellbinding, day-long radius; it is sophisticated enough for office wear, but playful enough for evening application, too. And alongside that vetiver heft, you get cedar, sandalwood, myrrh, moss, musk, and pink pepper.
The Best Woody Cologne for Date Night: Burberry Hero
Hero’s remix is a trio of cedar notes, along with a piercing pine needle expression. It is perfect for colder months, and for date night—in both cases, it invites others into your radius while also warming and calming the wearer. That might be thanks to its resinous base, but the cedar and pine are Hero’s forward-most notes.
The Best Oud Cologne: Tom Ford Oud Wood
