Baccarat Rouge 540 by Maison Francis Kurkdjian is one of the most copied perfumes in the world. People love its glowing, sugary-woody scent trail. Maison Alhambra makes three fragrances inspired by it. Here is how they differ.
What does BR540 smell like?
The main notes are saffron, jasmine, ambergris-style amber and cedar. Much of its famous “glow” comes from two aroma materials: ambroxan (a warm, mineral amber note) and ethyl maltol (a burnt-sugar, candyfloss note). Because these are well-known materials, clone makers can get close.
01Baroque Rouge 540
The best known of the three. It has the airy saffron and ambery-woods glow of BR540. Some reviewers find the heart a little more floral than the original. The best starting point for most people.
Check price on Amazon →02Baroque Rouge Extrait
Based on the Extrait version. Richer, with more bitter almond and a heavier base. Pick this if you find the regular version too thin or too light.
Check price on Amazon →03Philos Rosso
Part of the Philos line. Another take on the same DNA. A good choice if you want a slightly different style from the Baroque bottles.
Check price on Amazon →Which one should you buy?
| If you want… | Choose |
|---|---|
| The classic BR540 feel, first-time buyer | Baroque Rouge 540 |
| A deeper, richer, more almond version | Baroque Rouge Extrait |
| A different take in the same style | Philos Rosso |
Tips
- BR540-style scents are strong. Two or three sprays are enough.
- Some people are “anosmic” to ambroxan — they barely smell it on themselves while others do. Ask a friend before you over-spray.
- Like this style? Also try Kismet Angel (Kilian Angels’ Share) for a cognac-cinnamon twist.