Zaharoff Signature Rose – Byzantine Rose (Claude Dir, 2021)

 Scentrack: Minus 8 – Elysian Fields

Rose is a very tricky note to work on. It is virtually impossible to recreate the natural smell of a queen of florals with its more than 300 compounds. Rose fragrances often recreate just one aspect of this multifaceted flower. Personally, I am not a big fan of roses. In my eyes or in my nose, a rose is a very feminine note (it seems I am culturally conditioned). Additionally, recreations of a rose flower are usually not well put in due to budget limits. To my surprise, Signature Rose is one of the rare creations where the note of rose destroys my cultural boundaries.

Source: Zaharoff

The note of rose in Signature Rose is very deep and multifaceted. Rich, opulent, and full-bodied. It possesses the deep red floral darkness, a jam-like damascone angle, green thorn aspects, and a strange red wine mirage. Still, the rose is not overwhelming. The beautiful and realistic Orthodox Church incense gives a darker undertone and restrains this beautiful rose “monster”. As time passes by, a subtle peony note is introduced, as well as Hedione-like note, while darker incense and amber notes become more pronounced. The whole composition morphs into a rose Turkish delight dessert with a sugary aspect and a touch of sweet wood. Still, on my skin strongly resembles Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 450 with a floral sweetness vibe.

Thanks to the generosity of George Zaharoff, I had an opportunity to test this fragrance. Thanks, George!! 

 

Longevity/ Projection

Excellent (more than 8 hours) / Moderate

 

Suggested Wearing

Transitional seasons / Day or night

                                     

Alternatives

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat 450 – similar vibe

Zaharoff Signature pour Homme – same basic construction

 

Pros

Opulent rose accord

Great incense accord

Completely unisex

Good performance

 

Cons

Only for rose lovers

 

Verdict

As far as roses go, look no further 😊