Zadig & Voltaire This Is Him!

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Zadig & Voltaire This Is Him! Review: Smoky Spicy Icon

A modern classic for the rebellious gentleman

By Vivir ·

In the pantheon of modern masculine fragrances, few have captured the zeitgeist of the rebellious yet refined gentleman as effectively as Zadig & Voltaire's This Is Him!. Launched in 2016, this composition was born from the creative minds of Nathalie Lorson and Aurélien Guichard, two perfumers renowned for their ability to blend classic structure with contemporary edge. The fragrance immediately became a cult favorite, praised for its unapologetic smokiness and warm spice, a signature that resonates with the house's rock-and-roll aesthetic.

From the first spritz, This Is Him! announces its presence with a bold, peppery burst that is both invigorating and mysterious. It is a scent that does not whisper; it commands attention, yet its complexity rewards those who take the time to explore its layers. The name itself is a declaration—a statement of identity for the modern man who is comfortable in his own skin, unafraid to stand out. In this review, we will dissect the composition, performance, and character of this iconic fragrance, offering a comprehensive analysis for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the world of niche-inspired designer scents.

With a composition that oscillates between the sacred and the profane, This Is Him! has become a benchmark for spicy-woody fragrances. Its blend of frankincense and sandalwood evokes ancient rituals, while the grapefruit and black pepper add a contemporary, almost electric, freshness. It is a fragrance that feels both timeless and utterly of its moment, a rare feat in the crowded market of masculine perfumery. In the following sections, we will examine each facet, from the top notes to the drydown, and evaluate its performance metrics, suitability, and overall value.

4.1 Overall
Longevity
4.0
Projection
4.0
Sillage
4.0
$55-$95
🌸Spring☀️Summer🍂Fall❄️Winter

Accords

Warm Spicy Amber Woody Vanilla Fresh Spicy Smoky Balsamic Powdery Citrus Aromatic

Notes Pyramid

Top
Black PepperGrapefruit
Heart
Frankincense (Incense)Vanilla
Base
Sandalwood

Scent Journey

1
Opening 0-30 min

The first 30 minutes are a striking burst of black pepper and grapefruit. The pepper is sharp, almost pungent, while the grapefruit adds a sparkling, slightly bitter citrus that cuts through the spice. The overall effect is invigorating and slightly edgy, with a hint of incense already emerging from the heart.

2
Heart 1-2 hrs

As the fragrance settles (1-2 hours), the frankincense takes center stage, enveloping the wearer in a smoky, resinous aura. The vanilla begins to soften the edges, adding a creamy sweetness that balances the incense. The pepper recedes but remains present, creating a warm, spicy heart that is both comforting and mysterious.

3
Drydown 4+ hrs

After 4 or more hours, the composition reveals its base: a rich, creamy sandalwood that anchors the fragrance. The incense and vanilla meld into a smooth, balsamic finish, leaving a subtle powdery trail. The drydown is intimate yet persistent, with the woody and amber accords lingering on the skin for hours.

Performance Dashboard

⏱️ Longevity 4.0/5

6-10 hours on skin, with excellent persistence on clothing

📢 Projection 4.0/5

Projects strongly for the first few hours, then settles to a comfortable arm's length

💨 Sillage 4.0/5

Strong sillage; leaves a noticeable trail that commands attention

When to Wear

🌸SpringOK
☀️SummerAvoid
🍂FallBest
❄️WinterBest
💕 Date Night📌 Night Out📌 Evening Wear👕 Casual

Pros & Cons

  • ✅ Unique smoky-spicy blend that stands out
  • ✅ Excellent longevity and projection
  • ✅ Versatile for casual and formal evening occasions
  • ✅ High-quality ingredients with a sophisticated drydown
  • ❌ May be too intense for some, especially in warm weather
  • ❌ Not ideal for office or professional settings due to its strong presence
  • ❌ Limited versatility; best reserved for cooler months and evening wear

Price & Value

$55-$95
Excellent value for a designer fragrance with niche-like quality

“Worth every penny; a signature scent that delivers performance and character”

📜 Reformulation History

No significant batch variations reported. Consistency is generally good across production runs.

Who It's For

✅ Ideal For

  • Men who appreciate bold, smoky, and spicy fragrances
  • Those who enjoy evening wear and want a signature scent
  • Individuals who like to make a statement with their fragrance

⚠️ Not Recommended For

  • Those who prefer fresh, aquatic, or light scents
  • Office environments where subtlety is key
  • Summer daytime wear due to its intensity

Explore More

💡 Clone Alternatives

Lattafa Raghba Lattafa
Al Haramain Amber Oud Al Haramain

🧪 Layering Ideas

🏆 Final Verdict

Zadig & Voltaire This Is Him! is a masterful composition that balances boldness with sophistication. Its smoky, spicy character is both memorable and versatile for evening wear, and its performance is commendable. While it may not suit every occasion, for those who embrace its audacity, it becomes an indispensable signature scent.

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