Short answer: Ragnar - Insp by Creed Viking Cologne is D&E Fragrances' Extrait de Parfum take on Creed's fresh, spicy, woody Viking Cologne. It costs from £14.99 (5ml sample) to £44.95 (50ml), against about £310 for 100ml of the original. Shop Ragnar →
- Smells like: bright citrus and pink pepper over lavender, spice and sandalwood.
- Best for: anyone who loves Viking Cologne's crisp, herbal-woody style without the designer price.
- Honest note: inspired by, not an exact clone.
Creed Viking Cologne has become one of the house's most talked-about modern releases. It pairs a sparkling citrus opening with a classic barbershop heart of lavender and spice, then dries down into warm woods and frankincense. It is also one of Creed's pricier bottles: John Lewis lists it at £220 for 50ml and Harrods at £310 for 100ml.
What does Viking Cologne actually smell like?
- Top: Bergamot, Lemon, Mandarin, Pink Pepper
- Heart: Lavender, Geranium, Nutmeg, Rosemary, Sage
- Base: Sandalwood, Frankincense, Patchouli, Cedarwood, Vetiver
On skin it opens zesty and peppery, settles into an aromatic lavender-and-herb heart that feels clean and polished, then warms up with creamy sandalwood, resinous frankincense and dry woods. It is fresh but not watery, and works as a smart, confident everyday scent.
Why people look for a Viking Cologne dupe
The main reason is price. At around £310 for 100ml, it is a lot to pay for a scent you may wear on repeat. Many people also want to try the style before committing, or want a spare for the gym bag or office. A 5ml sample or 12ml roller lets you do exactly that without the outlay.
Viking Cologne vs Ragnar at a glance
| Creed Viking Cologne | D&E Ragnar | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | About £310 for 100ml (£220 for 50ml) | From £14.99 (5ml) to £44.95 (50ml) |
| Concentration | Eau de Parfum | Extrait de Parfum |
| Style | Citrus, lavender, spice, sandalwood | Citrus, lavender, spice, sandalwood and cedar |
| Sizes | 50ml, 100ml | 5ml, 12ml roller, 15ml, 30ml, 50ml |
Introducing Ragnar - Insp by Creed Viking Cologne
Ragnar is our own composition inspired by the fragrance family of Viking Cologne. It is an Extrait de Parfum, which means a higher concentration of fragrance oils than a standard eau de parfum, so it is made to sit closer to the skin and last longer. Prices are £14.99 for the 5ml sample, £19.99 for the 12ml roller or 15ml, £34.99 for 30ml and £44.95 for 50ml. Try Ragnar from £14.99 →
Being upfront about the comparison
Ragnar is inspired by Viking Cologne, not an exact clone or replica. The overall mood is the same: fresh citrus, lavender and spice over woods. But different raw materials and a different formula mean the two will not smell identical side by side. If you want the very specific Creed signature, only the original delivers it. If you want that style at a fraction of the price, Ragnar is a strong place to start.
Longevity and projection
As an Extrait, Ragnar is built to last. Expect several hours of wear with a good, noticeable presence in the first hour or two, then a softer, skin-close trail. Citrus openings naturally fade fastest, while the woods and base linger. Longevity varies by skin type, weather and where you spray, so the 5ml sample is a low-risk way to test it on you.
The verdict
If Creed Viking Cologne is on your wish list but £310 feels steep, Ragnar gives you a fresh, spicy, woody alternative from just £14.99. Try the sample first, then step up to 30ml or 50ml if you love it. Shop Ragnar →
Like Creed's other styles? See our Creed Carmina dupe guide too.
Follow us on TikTok: @defragrances26
Creed and Viking Cologne are trademarks of their respective owners. D&E Fragrances is not affiliated with them. Ragnar is D&E's own original composition, inspired by the fragrance family.