Boxing, Philosophy & Perfume

5 Questions for David Frossard, Founder of Frapin

What do boxing gloves, philosophy books, and fine French cognac have in common? For David Frossard, the answer is: everything. As the driving force behind Frapin, David brings centuries of family tradition, a love of big ideas, and a punch of authenticity to every bottle. We asked him five questions to get to the heart (and nose) of what makes Frapin so unique.

1. What sets Frapin apart from the thousands of niche perfume brands out there today?

Frapin is, first and foremost, a family—one with roots going all the way back to the 13th century in France. Our story weaves through French history, with ancestors like François Rabelais, a knighthood from Louis XIV, and friendships with legends like Gustave Eiffel. Today, Frapin is both a cognac house and a perfume house, embodying the very best of French culture and art de vivre. Wearing Frapin means carrying on a long tradition of elegance and savoir-faire.

2. Your path is unique: from philosophy to boxing to perfumery. How does your “philosopher-boxer” mindset shape your approach to fragrance?

Philosophy teaches you to look beyond appearances. Boxing is all about truth—there’s no hiding in the ring. Both push me toward authenticity, which is the only way to create a fragrance that truly moves people.

3. Which Frapin fragrance would you recommend to someone in Canada discovering the brand for the first time?

L’Humaniste is a Frapin classic. It’s simple, which makes it complex—a signature scent that’s refined and noble.

4. Do you have a personal favorite or symbolic Frapin fragrance?

The Orchid Man is close to my heart. It pays tribute to my passion for boxing and to the extraordinary boxer Georges Carpentier. It was created for Frapin by the talented Jérôme Epinette—yes, the same nose behind all those iconic BYREDO fragrances.

5. With so many new brands and trends popping up on social media, how do you spot a truly remarkable perfume?

A real perfume captures and transmits emotion. There has to be creative intent—something that moves you, just like a great cognac from the Frapin house. Too many scents are made to look good on Instagram, but lack depth or originality. The difference? You feel it.