Fougere Royale (2010)

I would be curious to hear from others who have experienced both the vintage and modern versions of this fragrance. It seems like my expectations got the better of me. When I tried the reworked version of FR, I was underwhelmed. While the drydown had a soapy quality that I found pleasant, the overall scent mostly felt like a mild lavender fragrance—far from the rich, coumarinic experience I had anticipated. It seems like my high hopes were my own doing. Still, when approaching it on its own terms, FR didn't quite captivate me. If I hadn't known it was a remake of a classic, I might have simply noted that it was a nice, soapy lavender with some subtle complexity over time—nothing to write home about, really. I've always thought that fougères and chypres are defined not just by their constituent notes but by how they evolve over time: top, heart, base. FR didn't quite hit that mark for me—it felt more like a lavender cologne than anything else. And yet, it was supposed to be the pinnacle of its category?

I've had this bottle for over two years, and I really liked it from the start but didn't wear it much. I always have to rediscover my favorites from my shelf. As someone who loves Guerlain perfumes (the newer ones), I tend to avoid old classic scents like Habit Rouge and Heritage because they feel outdated to me. It was surprising how the remade version of what is considered the most classic fragrance feels perfectly modern to me. Fougere Royale has such a wonderful, fresh, spicy smell. It’s totally elegant and almost abstract. I’ve ordered samples of Bois Mystique and Figuier Noir to explore more of this house.

This was an extra sample from the company. It's okay, but it didn't make a big impression on me. The scent is nice, but it smells more like a fancy aftershave. Wearing it is fine, but it doesn't have much personality.

I’ve never gotten the chance to try the original Fougere Royale, so I’ll focus on this revived version instead. I’m not one for those classic, old-school male fragrances, but this one definitely fits the higher-end category. The opening has a nice citrus vibe that I like—it’s sharp and refreshing, which contrasts well with the earthier notes that follow. I’m not a fan of lavender—too medicinal for me, probably from childhood memories—but the way it blends here feels less overpowering. Patchouli and amber notes bring it down to earth, giving it depth. There's this steady green forest note that runs throughout, adding a natural element that keeps things interesting. This isn’t an inexpensive scent, and it shows. The quality is evident in every aspect. Sillage is just enough, and the longevity is impressive—definitely something you can wear all day without it fading away too quickly. Not sure if it’s the real deal, but it’s definitely good. If it’s not the original, then maybe this is how modern perfumes should be made. The price might be a bit steep for some, though. I love the sleek flask design—reminds me of Molten Brown, though I’m not sure if it’s similar or just a coincidence. Overall, this is all based on a sample, so I can’t speak from personal experience.

"This doesn't smell like Bracken Man or Milano Cento. Fougere Royal is much more floral and aromatic. My spouse doesn't care for it, though I do."