Maxime Exler
# Maxime Exler: French Perfumer Bridging Cultures
## From Mediterranean Roots to Global Fragrance Innovation
[Maxime Exler](Maxime Exler) represents a new generation of French perfumers who blend traditional techniques with global perspectives. Born and raised in the South of France near the Mediterranean, Exler spent his first two decades surrounded by the natural scents that would later define his creative vision. The fig trees and sea breezes of his homeland continue to inspire his work today.
After training at the prestigious MANE School of Perfumery, Exler developed expertise in organic chemistry and advanced analytical techniques like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. His technical foundation, combined with his natural artistic instincts, has made him a sought-after nose for niche brands across different continents. Currently based in Shanghai and working for MANE, one of France's leading fragrance houses, he creates scents that speak to diverse cultural audiences.
Exler's approach to perfumery centers on personal storytelling and emotional connection. He believes fragrance should allow for self-expression, creating scents that resonate on an individual level. His collaboration with pastry chefs demonstrates his interest in exploring connections between scent and taste, while his work across Middle Eastern, Asian, and European markets shows his ability to adapt his Mediterranean sensibilities to different cultural contexts.
## Signature Creations and Cross-Cultural Mastery
One of Exler's most notable achievements is [Caden](/perfume/oman-luxury-caden) for Oman Luxury, a bold [gourmand](/style/gourmand) fragrance that showcases his skill with complex compositions. The scent opens with spicy [cardamom](/note/cardamom) and [saffron](/note/saffron), moves through a heart of rich [coffee](/note/coffee) and soft [suede](/note/suede), and settles into a base of sweet [tonka bean](/note/tonka-bean) and [vanilla](/note/vanilla). This creation demonstrates his ability to balance intensity with wearability, creating what many describe as an addictive and sophisticated scent experience.
His work on "Birch Bark" for the Chinese brand Documents exemplifies his cross-cultural approach. Exler successfully combined black tea notes, honoring Chinese traditions, with classic French elements like chestnut and smoky woods. This fusion represents his broader philosophy of creating bridges between different olfactory traditions while maintaining his Mediterranean-influenced style.
Exler's portfolio includes collaborations with brands like Ajmal, BORNTOSTANDOUT, Cherigan, and TOBBA, each showcasing different facets of his creativity. His "Chapter 1" for Ajmal draws directly from his childhood memories of fig trees and Mediterranean breezes, while his work with Korean brand BORNTOSTANDOUT shows his versatility in adapting to contemporary, youth-focused markets. As his reputation grows, Exler continues to establish himself as a perfumer who can honor tradition while embracing innovation.
