by January Scent Project
Smolderose is a complex, smoky amber rose with deep woody and animalic undercurrents. It opens with a bright citrus burst of mandarin and lemongrass, quickly giving way to a dense, resinous core dominated by patchouli, agarwood (oud), and tobacco smoke. The rose accord, while present, is often described as sharp, dusty, or acrid—some find it harsh, others perceive it as noble and incense-like. Over time, the fragrance evolves into a rich, gourmand amber with honeyed sweetness and a dry, musky finish, enhanced by vanilla and castoreum. It projects moderately to strongly, lingers for hours, and feels most effective in cooler seasons. Despite its strong masculine indicators in notes, it is overwhelmingly unisex in wearability, favored especially for night use. The perfume is not subtle—its layered complexity demands attention and retail experience. Some users report discomfort from the initial spray, with a sensation described as headache-inducing or an initial bitterness akin to rubber erasers. Yet others praise its boldness, depth, and originality, particularly for fans of Eastern, smoky, or gourmand rose scents. Its unusual makeup gives it an exotic, almost mythic aura, though not universally appealing.