Former IFF perfumer Pierre Wargnye has passed away suddenly in France at 73.
The French native trained in New York with Bernard Chant before joining the fragrance corporation in 1980 and went on to create world renowned scents for the group.
He graduated from Lycée de Nice, France, with a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, paving the way for many budding noses, including Celine Barel.
His portfolio includes Estée Lauder’s Pleasures for Men, Diesel’s Only The Brave and Yves Saint Laurent’s L’Homme.
“He was an iconic perfumer and IFF-er,” said Nicolas Mirzayantz, IFF’s Divisional CEO, Scent.
“He created many classics that became part of people’s lives. We were so lucky to know him and work alongside him, to learn from and share his craft with him.
“It’s such a big loss for us.”
Wargnye is said to have been influenced by his childhood in Grasse, France, for his scents.
Described as the birthplace of perfumery, the French town is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
“We will honour his memory and legacy,” added Mirzayantz.
