An Olfactory Journey Through Asia

Fragrances are few and far between, and we tend to cherish that sense of restraint. Still, even the most curious nose can grow tired. Recently, we found ourselves pleasantly reawakened after discovering d’Annam, a fine fragrance house from Vietnam that has just made its Malaysian debut at Trove. The experience was quietly surprising in the most rewarding way. Thoughtful, emotive and deeply rooted in place, d’Annam feels like a genuine celebration of Asia, told through scent with confidence and care.

D’Annam arrives at Trove with a distinctive fragrance collection that celebrates Asian heritage through modern, artisanal perfumery.

Founded in 2023, d’Annam takes its name from a phrase that translates simply to “from Vietnam”. From the outset, the brand has positioned itself as a storyteller of memory and culture, working closely with local perfumers to create fragrances that respect heritage. Each scent is crafted in small batches using time-honoured techniques and high quality natural ingredients. 

The house is structured currently around three distinct chapters, each inspired by a different destination and emotional landscape. Rather than attempting to offer definitive portraits of these places, d’Annam focuses on fleeting moments, everyday rituals and sensory impressions that linger long after the experience itself has passed.

The first chapter, Enchanting Vietnam, reads like a love letter written through scent. Inspired by founder Nick Hoang’s childhood memories, it captures the poetry of daily life in Vietnam, from lotus filled lakes to herb gardens and misty rice paddies at dawn. 

Memories of Japan forms the second chapter, approaching its subject with humility and quiet reverence. Rather than attempting to distil an entire culture, the collection offers gentle impressions that invite personal interpretation. Finally the third chapter, Majestic China, is expansive yet restrained. It presents a series of subtle vignettes that hint at the country’s vast cultural and historical depth. 

Among the collection, a few scents stood out as instant favourites, not for their novelty alone, but for the way they balance concept with wearability.

Vietnamese Coffee

Vietnamese Coffee offers a comforting contrast. Inspired by the ritual of cà phê sữa đá, it leans into the indulgent side of scent without becoming heavy. Notes reminiscent of dark roasted Robusta beans bring richness and a hint of bitterness, softened by a creamy sweetness that recalls condensed milk. 

Matcha Soft Serve 

From the Japanese chapter, Matcha Soft Serve quickly reveals itself as a quiet standout. The opening is strikingly true to life, capturing the earthy, slightly bitter aroma of freshly whisked matcha with remarkable clarity. As it settles, the fragrance softens, revealing a gentle sweetness and a whisper of vanilla that adds warmth without overpowering the tea. There is a nostalgic comfort to it, reminiscent of small, everyday pleasures, and it wears beautifully throughout the day

Mooncake

Mooncake, from the Majestic China collection, leans into sweetness but does so with restraint and sophistication. Inspired by the Mid Autumn Festival treat, it evokes the warmth of a golden pastry shell and the richness of salted egg yolk. Honeyed and softly vanilla tinged, the fragrance is lifted by a savoury note that prevents it from becoming cloying. The balance is what makes it so compelling, offering depth and comfort in equal measure.

Pomelo Oolong

Pomelo Oolong offers a quieter, more contemplative moment. Built around delicate oolong tea and soft floral notes of osmanthus, it feels serene and soft. The pomelo adds a gentle brightness rather than a sharp citrus edge, allowing the fragrance to remain smooth and airy—reminiscent of fine porcelain cups and sunlit tea rooms. 

Pho Breakfast

Pho Breakfast is perhaps the most unexpected, and arguably the most impressive. The idea of translating Vietnam’s most beloved dish into fragrance naturally invites scepticism, yet this composition avoids novelty entirely. Instead of attempting a literal recreation, it captures the atmosphere of the experience. Fresh herbs open the scent with brightness and clarity, followed by gentle spices that warm the skin without overwhelming it. There is a subtle savoury depth that lingers beneath, while remaining surprisingly fresh and elegant. 

To learn more and to shop d’Annam, head over to trovemy.com