Houbigant Fougere Royale Review (Rodrigo Flores Roux) 2010 + 10th Year Anniversary Draw

Houbigant fougere Royale 10th anniversary

photo courtesy of Houbigant

It’s the tenth anniversary of the “responsible restoration” of Houbigant Fougere Royale.  In 2011, CaFleureBon’s editor in chief Michelyn Camen went behind the bottle with Master Perfumer Rodrigo Flores-Roux  to learn more about his creative process and how he worked “revising the original.  PLEASE READ IT HERE.   First composed in 1884 by Paul Parquet Houbigant Fougere Royale, Rodrigo considers it to be the “first modern” fragrance.  What better way to learn about a historical fragrance and its responsible restoration then from the perfumer!

Houbigant Fougere Royale vintage review

Rodrigo wrote, “The definition of a modern scent is set as follows: Fougere Royale is traditionally considered to be the first fragrance to use a synthetically produced ingredient in its formula.  In the case of Fougere Royale, it boasts a healthy dose of coumarin. (Some sources state that it was used in an overdose of 50% of the total formula) Coumarin is a white powder redolent of newly mown hay, sweet almonds, tobacco and… errrrrr, some kind of ferns (‘fougere’ is the French word for ‘fern’…): hence, a “modern” perfume is that one that conceptually doesn’t imitate anything in nature. In other words, we are talking about an “intellectual” or “man-made” perfume…

Houbigant Fougere Royale 2010

So, what is a FOUGERE? In perfume lingo, a fougere is a type of fragrance, mostly masculine (exceptions below) built around a basic accord of citrus (predominantly bergamot), lavender, geranium, coumarin and the earthy trio of patchouli, oak moss, and cistus resins. One element more, one element less, but this is approximately what a fougere structure encompasses. This always makes me think that fougeres are in fact modified chypre”.

Rodrigo Flores Roux

Rodrigo Flores-Roux was kind enough to follow up ten years later…

“It’s been 10 years since Houbigant Fougere Royale was reborn, and I still get comments when I wear it… and members of my family asking me for refills!!! (laughs) I really enjoyed working on this project, definitely a highlight of my career as a perfumer”-Rodrigo Flores-Roux

 

Thanks to the generosity of Houbigant Paris  we are offering a 100 ml bottle of Fougere Royale to a registered CafleureBon reader and Smelling Great subscriber in the USA, EU, UK (if you are not sure if you are registered click here (you must register on our site or your entry will be invalid). 

Fougere Royale

To be eligible please leave a comment ON THIS SITE with what you enjoyed about Rodrigo Flores Roux’s introduction and insights as the perfumer of Houbigant Fougere Royale EDP 2010 (this is an honor) and Sebastian’s review and where you live. Draw closes 3/8/2020

You can follow us @cafleurebon @lookfeelsmellgreat on Instagram. Be sure to follow @houbigant_Paris and @rodrigofloresroux as well

CAFLEUREBON IS BASED IN NEW YORK CITY SO IF YOU POST YOUR COMMENT AFTER 10:00 PM EST AND BEFORE 9:00 AM and IT NEEDS TO BE HAND APPROVED, IT WILL SHOW LATER. SO, PLEASE REMEMBER YOUR PASSWORD AND BE SURE TO REGISTER.

Available at Jovoy Paris and Luckyscent as well as other fine retailers. You can also buy it online at Houbigant’s site here

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108 comments

  • twiggy3634 says:

    They both have great things to say. The fact that Rodrigo said this is a highlight of his career and Sebastian says it’s THE quintessential fougere, it assures me that this is a must-try. I absolutely love fougeres and it’s a shame I have not gotten my nose on this one yet. I live in Indiana, USA.

  • Sérgio Rodrigo Teixeira says:

    Wow. For a perfumer such as Rodrigo, who has made so many aweosme fragrances, to be so humbled to be part of this rebirth, is a real prof of the importance of Fougere Royale in the history of perfumery. Sebastian talks about that as well in his review. The first Fougere, the first ever to use a synthetically ingredient, a game changer for sure. Portugal here. Good luck everyone.

  • Sergio Teixeira says:

    Wow. For a perfumer such as Rodrigo, who has made so many aweosme fragrances, to be so humbled to be part of this rebirth, is a real prof of the importance of Fougere Royale in the history of perfumery. Sebastian talks about that as well in his review. The first Fougere, the first ever to use a synthetically ingredient, a game changer for sure. Portugal here. Good luck everyone.

  • Aftekhar Khan says:

    What a great sounding fragrance, the history behind the scent is also something that is very interesting and to have lasted this long and still be one of the best if not the best fougere fragrances. I liked how Rodrigo said he felt that this is the highlight career. Sebastian has mentioned the scent many times and I really would like to get my nose on it. I live in London UK and it’s great that this giveaway is available to the UK fans.

  • twong says:

    This has got to be special if Rodrigo Flores-Roux is claiming that Fougere Royale is a highlight of his perfumer career. I thought Sebastian’s review provided very useful background on this aromatic fragrance with fresh, warm spices and a wonderful amber base. Thanks for the draw. Regards from Boston USA.

  • Fernando says:

    I guess my bottle must be almost ten years old… I could use a refill. Flores Roux did a very good job of this one.

  • Ayham says:

    This has got to be special if Rodrigo Flores-Roux is claiming that Fougere Royale is a highlight of his perfumer career. I thought Sebastian’s review provided very useful background on this aromatic fragrance with fresh, warm spices and a wonderful amber base. Thanks for the draw. Regards from Oberhausen Germany

  • noseknowsnonotes says:

    Always nice to learn about the history of fragrances. Saw the video on Sebastian’s channel, but saw his older videos in which he praised this as well, so must be good. I live in The Netherlands!

  • Danny says:

    I had a bottle of Fougere Royale and it’s long gone. It’s tough to find it in the USA btw. Sebastian really gives a great overview And his video was tops and MR. Rodrigo Flores Roux is such a great perfumer and I learned so much from his writing. Especially that a modern perfume wasn’t intended to recreate nature and he still loves it

  • Osama mahgoub says:

    I Love the re-introducing old perfumes with modern touch, and I love the reviews done by Sebastian, he’s great…

  • Gabriel Garcia Leyva says:

    Congratulations Rodrigo, fougeres are the reason most of us are here, beautiful blend, not only the scent, but also the line of grooming products, Sebastián also introduced the pure perfume bottle, which I’m guessing is quite a stunner scent in itself.
    NV USA

  • jhalim22 says:

    As always, Sebastian with a terrific not breakdown. I love his description of the “juicy bergamot and Mediterranean herbs.”

    Rodrigo Flores-Roux Saying that this is a highlight of his career is saying something. I also love his thoughts on the notes. He seems to be more interested in creating a great fragrance than just a great Fougere if that makes sense.

    Maryland, USA.

  • Sunny Chaudhary says:

    What a great sounding fragrance, the history behind the scent is also something that is very interesting and to have lasted this long and still be one of the best if not the best fougere fragrances. I liked how Rodrigo said he felt that this is the highlight career.

    Sebastian has mentioned the scent many times on his channel and he loves so I believe him and am sure I gonna love it too. I really would like to get my nose on it.

    I am from Atlanta-GA USA
    Thanks for the opportunity

    Sunny

  • Alejandro Romero says:

    It was a highlight of Rodrigo’s career. Added a modern twist…I’ve been wanting to try “old-fashioned” fragrances. Anywhere from the 1700s to 1960s…Sebastian is great as always. I learn a lot from him. He’s the best. Im from McAllen, TX USA

  • Thierry says:

    I love fougeres – they are my absolute favorite style of fragrance and I love this classic scent that launched a genre. Houbigant Fougere Royale is lovely and elegant scent that I really enjoy wearing for any occasion. I live in NYC, USA.

  • yumsylee says:

    Classic scent and a masterpiece for the creator. Sebastian owns and ranks this fougere fragrance #1 a few times says a lot about it. Big green aromatic at the top is a nice start and ends with a beautiful oakmoss/tonka and clary sage drydown. IL, USA

  • fragcrze12 says:

    Rodrigo Flores Roux is a classic genius. Just by reading his introuction and insights, say alot about the man and th perfume. He is insightful and thoughful about the process, just a love for the process of recreating something so legendary. awesome!
    Sebastian once again, brings great knowledge and historical context of a fragrance that is admired and revered by many in the fragrance community. Great job,
    from Brooklyn, US with love.

  • citizenkage says:

    Wow the first fougere ever created from 1882! That’s pretty cool. I do enjoy Fougere’s so I’m gonna have to try the quintessential fougere as Sebastian describes it. I enjoyed reading Rodrigo’s explanation of why he considers this the first modern perfume. The fact that it was the first one to use a synthetically produced ingredient is quite interesting. Thanks for the opportunity to try this historical fragrance. Florida, USA.

  • Ron says:

    Reading the link to Rodrigo’s email answers was heart warming, I want to try this fragrance even more now that I know how much decision making he put into choosing his ingredients and how serious he took the honor of creating his interpretation of a classic.

    What I liked about Sebastian’s review is his love for fougeres and how he explains them. I’ve been trying to find a good fougere for awhile but haven’t had any luck, so I’m trusting in Sebastian’s opinion and I’m eager to try this fragrance.

    I live in Ohio, USA.

  • Ahmed says:

    I love Fougere fragrances and I’m interested to try Fougere Royale. From MIchigan USA.

  • Taseski says:

    This is for sure my favorite type of scent.
    Aromatic Fougere always make me feel like a gentleman and for me this sound like gentleman in a bottle. I imagine wearing this:
    bright day, dress up, big smile on the face and shearing huge positive vibe.
    Fougere Royale is on my wish list long time. I hope that will have luck to win a bottle of Fougere history.

  • snui says:

    HI: I am in Washington State, USA. I enjoyed learning the definition of FOUGERE and how Rodrigo approach the reimagine Fougere Royale.
    Sebastian described the Fougere Royale interestingly. It really intrigues me to try the scent that Spicy, Fresh yet warm. thanks

  • wallygator88 says:

    I really enjoyed reading the interview with Rodrigo and his journey into the formulation of Fougere Royale. I did not know about Roja Dove being a consultant during the search for a perfumer to recreate this fragrance. I’ve used this a few times and as Sebastian says, it is green and warm with a sparkling character at the top.

  • Taseski says:

    “we are talking about an “intellectual” or “man-made” perfume…” Rodrigo Flores-Roux
    This is for sure my favorite type of scent.
    Aromatic Fougere always make me feel like a gentleman and for me this sound like gentleman in a bottle. I imagine wearing this:
    bright day, dress up, big smile on the face and sharing huge positive vibe.
    Fougere Royale is on my wish list long time. I hope that will have luck to win a bottle of Fougere history.
    Thank you for the great discription Sebastian !

  • tjbrundage says:

    Rodrigo Flores-Roux, I appreciate your initial “responsible restorer” approach. It’s a shame that extracts are so scrutinized and legislated. About a year ago I was able to try Fougere Royale from a tester at a Neiman Marcus. Brilliant! What a timeless and sophisticated fragrance. Love it. Sebastian, thank you for inspiring me and helping me discover amazing fragrances. Fougere Royale is just one of many fragrances I have discovered and love because of your knowledge and passion. Your videos are my tutorials — I have learned so much from you about the world of fragrance.

  • tjbrundage says:

    Rodrigo Flores-Roux, I appreciate your initial “responsible restorer” approach. It’s a shame that extracts are so scrutinized and legislated. About a year ago I was able to try Fougere Royale from a tester at a Neiman Marcus. Brilliant! What a timeless and sophisticated fragrance. Love it. Sebastian, thank you for inspiring me and helping me discover amazing fragrances. Fougere Royale is just one of many fragrances I have discovered and love because of your knowledge and passion. Your videos are my tutorials — I have learned so much from you about the world of fragrance. I live in southwest Florida.

  • FC says:

    Sebastian says Fougere Royale is a warm spicy fragrance with citrusy elements and he also detects cinnamon. Rodrigo has created lot of great fragrances so it means a lot when he says he is particularly proud of this creation. I am in US

  • Gerald Moore says:

    Houbigant is one of my favourite houses, along with Caron-french vintage and fougeres are among my most favourite. Sampled this with Sebastian and would love to have a full bottle

  • RobertQ says:

    It was fascinating to get both insights into the fragrance, it gave a complete view of it.
    It also allowed us to learn about it from the inside out.
    To learn from the creator and then the wearer , it was interesting to see how someone so close to it sees the creation, and how someone on the outside viewed it.

    It was a great duality that was enlightening.

    From Ireland, EU.

  • Brad Maddy says:

    This was a fun read. I liked that Mr. Flores-Roux seemed to want to stay somewhat true to the original composition, but then realized how to really make it shine via a “creative license“.

    And as always, I enjoy Sebastian’s reviews. The fact that this one frequently shows up as one of the highest ranked scents in many of his videos really makes me want to give it a try. This one is definitely moving up on my list of fragrances to try out.

  • bradjm says:

    Commented earlier, but realized I wasn’t logged in.

    This was a fun read. I liked that Mr. Flores-Roux seemed to want to stay somewhat true to the original composition, but then realized how to really make it shine via a “creative license“.

    And as always, I enjoy Sebastian’s reviews. The fact that this one frequently shows up as one of the highest ranked scents in many of his videos really makes me want to give it a try. This one is definitely moving up on my list of fragrances to try out.

    I’m located in Utah, USA

  • MPfragrance says:

    I enjoyed how Rodrigo told us what ingredients are usually found in fougeres. With Sebastian’s review I love how he is excited about the fragrance and that spills over to the viewer. Laguna Hills, CA USA

  • Lefteris Fotopoulos says:

    Great to find out about the origin of the fougere genre from the article. I love fougere fragrances, the greenness along with the aromatic elements. I also love the houbigant house, all of the creations are very gentlemanly and classy. I would like to participate in giveaway and a chance to win this masterpiece. I am from Greece, EU.

  • C K says:

    I loved in the introduction how Rodrigo explained why this is the first modern fragrance. Because it is an intellectual perfume not directly copying nature. I had heard it said before that Fougere Royale was the first modern fragrance but didnt really fully understand why until now. I also enjoyed Sebastians review how he mentioned that there are fresh spicy and warm spicy touches to the perfume and a very invigorating opening. I live in the USA. Thanks for this generous draw.

  • Zamen Farhan says:

    I love Sebastian’s reviews of this master piece!! I always watch them and enjoy the great description and history of this fragrance. Unfortunately, there is now way to sample it here in Salt Lake City Utah. I would love to smell this master piece and live the great experience! I would love to be added to the pull please. I live in Salt lake City Utah. Thanks

  • Aethele says:

    Rodrigo Flores-Roux is a proven genius: he recreated the first fougere and yes, he hacked the restricting regulations bypassing “the sorely missed oak moss extract” (as he stated back in 2011 as he wanted to be a “responsible restorer”:) . Well done job. As I see he is a true gentlemen, an elegant man and I do not wonder he recomposed one of the most elegant type of perfume. Fougere is my favorite type of scent, and it’s a must!

  • Aethele says:

    Must repost my comment, I forgot to mention I’m from the EU. Rodrigo Flores-Roux is a proven genius: he recreated the first fougere and yes, he hacked the restricting regulations bypassing “the sorely missed oak moss extract” (as he stated back in 2011 as he wanted to be a “responsible restorer”:) . Well done job. As I see he is a true gentlemen, an elegant man and I do not wonder he recomposed one of the most elegant type of perfume. Fougere is my favorite type of scent, and it’s a must!

  • Jens Holmgren says:

    I like that they really enjoy and speak so highly of a style of fragrance that is probably seen as very dated by some.

    Awesome to see it in the limelight! (as it were.)

    I live in Sweden

  • DuftHochZwei says:

    I had a decant of this and also had the pleasure of sampling the Extrait, which Seb calls pure parfum and what it indeed to die for. I find the chamomile less prominent there, and I like that change. But this EdP is a great modern and elegant take on the genre. Also, the bottle is beautiful! I would love to win this to Germany, thanks for the draw!

  • buenabae says:

    I had no clue previously that Rodrigo was the perfumer behind this reiteration. I’ve been seeing his name rather frequently, especially with brands that emphasize synthetics in their fragrances (Aether Parfums anyone?) How fitting he was able to put Coumarin once again into use for this one! Very lucky indeed, as this seems to be such a historical “must-smell” of scent. On my end however I’m not as lucky as I’ve never yet tried this frag! But it sounds delightful and I’m sure its modern iteration by its modern perfumer gives it a well-deserved new life. By no doubt Sebastian’s consistently high recommendation is a cause for desire as well. Will definitely follow both Rodrigo and Houbigant on Instagram, if I haven’t already! I’m in California.

  • linelle says:

    I’ve been following Sebastian for quite a long time now and often come across with ‘fougere’ kind of perfumes and specifically Fougere Royale which he describes so beautifully and catchy – the freshness of bergamot, special character of lavender and spicyness of geranium sounds like a scent I would definitely like to smell on my hubby.
    After reading the Robert’s story behind rebirth of this perfume I feel even more respect for perfumers and how they manage to convey the soul of historical perfumes.
    Big thanks to Houbigant Paris for the generous give away!
    Lina, EU, Lithuania

  • Liz Seville says:

    This is a fragrance that has always interested me. Houbigant are are an important house in development too but Fougère Royale is the one I have always wanted to own. This article answers so many of the questions I have had but I was particularly interested to read about the place of coumarin and amber in developing an extrait version. It is a classic piece of perfumery writing which has the feel of that search for a rich and generous formula that honours the classic. Thank you each.

  • Jos says:

    Wowee this sounds like right u my alley. Would really really love to give this a try! When Rodrigo to talk about this fragrance in this way, it’s sure got to be good. This has got to be one for the history books. Living in the EU

  • GeoKan says:

    Fougere and barbershop fragrances may appeal as ‘oldschool’ to some people, but for me are the epitome of a dapper man who knows his way. Clean fresh and elegant, not obnoxiously loud, but pleasantly welcoming.
    The “behind the bottle” article present us an in depth anallysis of how Rodrigo Flores-Roux approached the recreation of Fougere Royale. A daring task if you ask me, but according to Sebastian’s vivid review, a successful one!
    Greetings from Athens-Greece, and as Spring marches on, we need a few sprays of this ‘portrait of the greenery’ to celebrate the rebirth of the nature.

  • Amaziz89 says:

    Intrigued by the use of coumarin added to patchouli and oakmoss. A beautiful description by Rodrigo Flores Roux who considered it a highlight of his career says it all. Thanks from the United Kingdom

  • Julien says:

    I absolutely love this fragrance and it always had a place in my collection. Rodrigo admits that this fragrance is one of his best works and the explanation of Sebastian is spot on! As a fragrance addict I often return to fougères fragrances in work environment and Houbigant is such a classy house. Merci! I live in Luxembourg, EU.

  • wagnerflo says:

    Rodrigo manages to explain and clear up the “modern” perfume / fougere / Jicky / Fougere Royale confusion really well. Also reading about the creative process was very interesting, but I’m having a hard time imagining the perfume from that interview text.

    Still, that’s were Sebastian comes in. As usual he does a really nice, to the point description of what to expect. There’s a reason his is the only YouTube channel about perfume I watch and subscribe to.

    Since I’d really love to try this one (big fan of fougeres in general), please add me to the draw. I live in Germany, EU.

  • brunog says:

    I love that Mr. Flores-Roux still loves his creation and has a passion for it! I feel that gets lost in modern perfumery these days. Learned from Sebastian’s review, and then from the blog post here, that this was a re-release! For some reason I thought that this gem had been in more or less constant production since its debut. Glad it’s bacj and can’t wait to put this in my, heavily fougere dominated, fragrance lineup. I’m in Miami, FL, USA

  • Jan says:

    I find it interesting that Rodrigo Flores-Roux thinks that a modern perfume is one that doesn’t imitate anything in nature. I agree with Sebastian in this one being the “quintessential fougère”.
    I am in France, EU.

  • marcopietro says:

    One of best rendition of historical fragrance in my opinion and one of my favorite in contemporary fougere perfumes. Simply perfect in balance, class and allure. I agree with Sebastian definition of this gem, “the quintessence of fougere”. I love it. Long life to a true masterpiece!
    I live in EU.
    Thanks for this awesome 10th Year Anniversary Draw.

  • Steve A. says:

    1882 is a long time ago. With such high regard (quintessential) from the reviewer I’m ready to try this. Classic-style fourgeres are a personal fave. US

  • IvanVelikov says:

    Fougere Royale sounds like a fragrance made for gloomy fall days. I can also wear it while working with clients. I’m in tailoring business.
    I have no experience with Houbigant , but
    Rodrigo Flores-Roux is really good perfumer, so I’m sure he did a great job.
    Thank you. In US

  • bradkunz says:

    I really enjoy Rodrigo’s likening of reworking this fragrance to “responsible renovation” in architecture. Such a clever comparison that makes total sense! I like that Sebastian says there is such a nice fresh spicy and warm spicy appeal with the herbs and flowers and then the cinnamon. I am in PA in the USA.

  • shpalman says:

    Fascinating to hear how the fougère is a kind of modified chypre, especially the balance of warm and fresh spiciness and the addition of lavender to the usual citrus. Also interesting to read how coumarin was used in the original formulation. How does the modern version deal with the IFRA restrictions on oak moss?

    I live in Como, Italy.

  • Shamrock1313 says:

    I always enjoy a great fougere and Sebastian gave great detail, like he always does. Looking forward to trying it, since it’s not what I was expecting.
    Pennsylvania USA

  • micarinio says:

    Rodrigo considers Houbigant Fougere Royale to be the first modern perfume. Fougere Royale is traditionally considered to be the first perfume to use a synthetic product in its formula, namely a healthy dose of coumarin.
    Once again Sebastian proves to be one of the best perfume reviewers.Congratulations, Sebastian!
    Greetings from Romania!

  • xoe says:

    The creation of this scent is a great story. Sebastian says it is great, so it must be. Rodrigo is an artist, and he says this is a highlight of his career. I am in the USA.

  • TE Withrow says:

    I have never tried a fougere…I love all the background information that Sebastian gives about the fragrances that he talks about.. He is very knowledgeable! I’m from Illinois, USA.

  • Maria62 says:

    I really loved the comments of Rodrigo Flores-Roux on his parfume, it made me want to try it. Thank you Sebastian for making me familiar with new fragrances.
    Leipzig, Germany

  • WaltherP99 says:

    As far as i can remember Houbigant was gone for good for a long period of time , and revived a few years back.I know Fougere Royale , but nothing else.They do not smell the same,but Fougere Royale gives me the same vibe like Antidote by Viktor&Rolf .
    Fougere Royal is really good, but as I said it’s the only Houbigant I know.
    @cafleurebon @lookfeelsmellgreat @houbigant_Paris and @rodrigofloresroux i already follow on Instagram
    Thanks a lot. USA

  • Jannick85 says:

    The fact that this is a highlight of his career really Speaks to the quality of the scent, and really makes me wanna try it. Sebastian also spoke highly of this and provided some great background history on this. From Denmark

  • vtilwani says:

    There is always something new to learn about notes with these posts. Learned about Coumarin and Rodrigo definition of an intellectual modern perfume. Got an alert for Sebastian’s review and as always never disappoints. This is on my shortlist to try when i visit Scentbar. Reader from Los angeles, CA, USA

  • diegopineda says:

    The introduction from Rodrigo Flores was very heartfelt. He seems to be very proud of his own restoration from this classic scent, and more importantly a scent that became a gamechanger.

    Before Sebastian review I didn’t even know that it was considered the original fougere scent. Also, the bottle presentation is stunning. Great review from Sebastian as always.

    From Georgia USA

  • Salem says:

    I loved how detailed and descriptive sir Flores Roux was about the process of recreation of this perfume. Step by step, note by note, stage by stage, like a guided tour through one of the world’s finest, most precise arts. It was also extremely nice to read before listening to Sebastian’s description, which again was a descriptive trip through the progress of this perfume in its stages. The warm vs. fresh spices description was particularly interesting. I am in the EU and would love to try this. Thank you.

  • Barber82 says:

    I’m a barber, and I know most Houbigant manly fragrances Fougere Royale , Bois Mystique , Cologne Intense , Duc de Vervins and Duc de Vervins L’Extreme.
    If you’re into old school scents, just order samples. Well Bois Mystique and Cologne Intense could be considered unisex, but the others I don’t think so.
    The best Houbigant? Depends on the weather. Right now both Fougere Royal and Duc de Vervins L’Extreme, if it’s hot Cologne Intense.
    Thank you Sebastian .
    USA

  • drjedi says:

    Thanks Michelyn for the behind-the-scenes interview with the creator, Rodrigo Flores-Roux, of this perfume. The fact that it was at the top of your, and Sebastian’s, fougere lists makes it very enticing. Green top notes of bergamot, geranium, chamomile, and lavender sound wonderful. My experience with fougeres has been Brut 33 and Sartorial (quite different in how they smell, and their prices – Sartorial is very pricey but one of my favorite perfumes, very, very elegant). Haven’t tried Houbigant Fougere Royale yet, and am excited to be part of this draw. Writing from USA.

  • raulinbonn says:

    About Rodrigo’s insights I enjoyed his explanation about what a modern perfume is, and his approach based on “responsible renovation.” From Sebastian’s review, his comment about this being for him the quintessential fougere.
    I live in Bonn, Germany.

  • ThatMulattoDude says:

    Really enjoyed Sebastian content on this modern classic. Rodrigo mentioned it as the first intellectual or man-made fragrance…it would seem to me more creativity and genius is needed to formulate something such as this, not replicating but conceptualizing. I really would like to get my hands on this masterpiece, thanks for the opportunity. -Virginia, USA

  • Davidov says:

    As a fougere fragrances lover, I’m hope to win the very first one and I’m sure I gonna love it.
    Israel

  • Cynthia says:

    Very special that he views this perfume as a career highlight. More recently I think of him as the white flower master. I love the bottle, too. Thanks Sebastian for a great look at this perfume.

  • chrisskins says:

    I smelled this divine fougere when it was first reborn – can absolutely understand why the family is coming back for seconds. I would love to have a bottle of a perfumer’s career highlight!

  • rab653 says:

    This fragrance, and the history behind it, fascinates me. I’ve always been a fan of fougere’s but this one seems so much more natural and authentic. I enjoyed how Rodrigo described the heart of the scent to have a “spicy core” with a hearty dose of natural coumarin. On the contrary, I enjoyed Sebastian’s description of the bright lavender and bergamot in the opening. I’d love to enter to win! I live in the Bay Area of California, USA.

  • Hugh Swanzy says:

    I like that Rodrigo brought back an old family fragrance and that he and his family still wear it. Sebastian is always teaching the fragrance community something new with his fragrance reviews, like in this review that fougere means fern in the French language. Texas, USA

  • Natalia306 says:

    Fougere Royal !!!!!
    I think I would like it too, I love green notes, Fern!!! “To die for” green, warm just perfect! Bergamot, lavander, geranium, camomile, fresh Spicy and rose! Wonderful, fenomenal, historical perfume!
    Thank you Sebastian ❤️
    Thank you Rodrigo Flores-Roux for fenomenal creation Houbigant Fougere Royale and Happy 10th year Anniversary!

  • ernestog says:

    Sebastian and Rodrigo both make me want to try this very special fragrance. I’m excited to get my nose near it ASAP! I’m green to this fragrance so it suits me as its a green fragrance. Send me one I’m in Orlando Florida.

  • Camille Sheil says:

    An opportunity to sample the first creation of a modern fragrance….! What an honor, thanks! I have only ever heard of responsible restoration projects happening inside museums with paintings and fabric creations, so this is a new concept to me, to responsibly ‘update’ a very old perfume. After that amount of time, I would think its impact on the fragrance would and expectations by the consumer would be greatly influenced. This must have been a master blend in its time. I thought Sebastian’s review was helpful in understanding how the notes interact with each other through the dry down. Geranium that lends its spicy qualities, earthy lavenders, and obviously green ‘fern’ notes. Sounds wonderful! I live in New Hampshire USA!

  • Ozzyaziz says:

    It’s been 10 years since Houbigant Fougere Royale was reborn, and I still get comments when I wear it… and members of my family asking me for refills!!! (laughs) I really enjoyed working on this project, definitely a highlight of my career as a perfumer”-Rodrigo Flores-Roux
    What a fantastic fragrance coumarin, Patchouli and oakmoss have captured my attention and great praise by the perfumer Rodrigo Flores Roux and a wonderful description by Sebastian Jara. Thanks from the United Kingdom

  • Andrei artimon says:

    Really big fan oh classic fougere fragramces , and i would really love to have the 1st ever fougere creates as part of my colection , new york , usa .

  • Matt Peterson says:

    I enjoyed Sebastians review alot… (as always!) I am really intrigued by this scent and the history behind it! Cheers from Utah, USA

  • adteutla says:

    Loved Roux’s sharing the creative process and just how important coumarin was to the composition. A great look behind the scenes!
    Sebastian’s reviews are always incredibly informative. If sebastian loves a fragrance, it’s a definite must-try.

  • ivan97 says:

    I’ll be honest never heard for this fragrance, but I would definitely be happy to win it,
    Because if Rodrigo Flores-Roux says that this is one of best of his Parfums, than who am I to judge it..
    Sebastian reviews as always full of details and comparisons, best fragrance YouTuber for me ,
    And also im from EU, so sorry for BAD english

  • Dean Blackwood says:

    I’m in the UK.

    I like how Rodrigo didn’t take all of the credit himself for recreating this old classic.

  • cigano says:

    Very informative interview. Previously I only had a general idea of what defines a fougere. Reading about the steps involved to recreate such an important fragrance in the history of perfumery was exciting. Having seen Sebastian do several videos on this fragrance really solidifies this is a must smell.
    FL, USA

  • Uncle1979 says:

    “Bois Mystique” is in my possession. I’m not sure how Luca Maffei did it, but it smells way more expensive than it’s price tag . Ok I’ll say it, smells like a Creed fragrance. If I have to describe it it will be like a mix between Spice and Wood , and Royal Oud.
    Fougere Royale I have not smelled, upscale occasions fragrance is what I think it is.
    Appreciate the review, and the giveaway campaign. In US.

  • Bubeto_GG says:

    My husband owns Cologne Intense, masculine fragrance for confident guys. Fougere Royale I presume it will be in the same vane.
    Fragrances not for boys, but for grown up men.
    Back and forth between USA and Scotland, 1 week in US -> 1 week in Scotland, and so on . Basically both USA and EU/UK at the same time

  • Disneydad says:

    I never knew that Fougere Royale was the first to use a synthetic ingredient until I read Rodrigo’s quote. Always like learning about the history and science of fragrances. Sebastian did a great review as always. I liked how he described it as a juicy, herbal punch in the face. I live in IL, USA.

  • Alen says:

    “A highlight of his perfumer career”, well this must be a really good and important one. Sebastian’s review was great as always and i’ve listen to it talking several times about how good this fragrance is, a true fougere. Thanks for the draw, i’m in the EU.

  • Bryant Worley says:

    I appreciated Rodrigo’s break down of what the fragrance is about, including: “hence, a “modern” perfume is that one that conceptually doesn’t imitate anything in nature. In other words, we are talking about an “intellectual” or “man-made” perfume…” Sebastian’s explanation of, and enthusiasm for the fragrance makes it a must-try. I live in ‘soon-to-be Spring’ Waldorf, MD, USA.

  • Gig84 says:

    I always thought of Houbigant as mature, classy men fragrance house. For a reason I believe. I grew up with Duc Vervins , because of my dad and grandfather .
    I guess with the new “niche” line and working with young, but already established perfumer like Luca Maffei, and Rodrigo Flores-Roux Houbigant wants to reach younger generations. Fougere Royal feels like a modern Fougere.
    Still Duc de Vervins is my favorite Houbigant .
    Nice opportunity, thank you .
    USA most of the year, and Germany from time to time

  • Michael Prince says:

    I loved learning about Rodrigo Flores Roux’s introduction. I love learning about the history of fragrances, fragrance houses, and perfumers. It is hard to believe how similar Fougeres are to Chypres in the note breakdown. As always I loved hearing Sebastian’s review on Houbigant Fougere Royale EDP 2010  a modern take on this classic fougere on it’s 10 year anniversary. I am from the USA.

  • NiceVULady says:

    Always interesting to know that Rodrigo considers this a highlight of a stellar career. If this is the fougere to end fougeres, thenI really should try this. Great reviews by all. Thank you and thank you for the draw. I’m in the USA.

  • Silvia says:

    Rodrigo Flores-Roux nose and description is enought to make a try of Fougere Royal and Sebastian’s review is so clear, is about a fresh, green, pure, airily scent…and I love it! Regards from Romania, EU

  • Sngash says:

    That was quite an interesting read especially after seeing Sebastian’s take on it. It’s a wonderful thing when a perfumer opens up about the process of creation and the challenges faced – in this case it seems there was some external pressure but I’m glad all parties were happy in the end. This sounds like a wonderful fragrance and Sebastian having rated it number 1 in the fougere categories makes it that much more intriguing. Thank you for giving us a glimpse into a perfumer’s mind and for the kind giveaway. I’m in USA

  • Nimurai says:

    I have yet to dive into the Fougere fragrance genre, but seeing Sebastian’s review piqued my interest(and seeing that beautiful bottle certainly helped), and reading about the history of fragrance and the process of recreating such a classic scent was very interesting. Especially hearing about the several tries it took to get it right, and then finally how it all clicked. It is encouraging to hear that great art is a process and not always something created out of thin air by geniuses, but that even they have to try and fail before they can succeed!

    Kind regards from Sweden.

  • Caliwas says:

    I like that Rodrigo that this fragrance is the highlight of his career and Sebastian review is outstanding with explaining how this is a quintessential fresh, spicy and warm amber fougere.Thanks for the draw. I live in CA, USA.

  • petergigov says:

    The name Houbigant I have heard on YouTube, but never had a chance to smell their fragrances.
    Fougere Royal attracts me because it’s really manly, picture of the perfumer is well chosen. Grey pinstripes suit will compliment such fragrance perfectly.
    Exsiting giveaway. USA/FRANCE
    Regards

  • Melissa Moore says:

    I love the respect for the original while updating a classic! I live in the USA.

  • bumbuliuki says:

    Such an informative review. It’s been great to learn the history behind such an iconic and groundbreaking perfume. I’ve read many times that Fougere Royale is the quintessential fougere, but never got the chance to try it. It’s quite hard to purchase locally.
    The fact that this has been Rodrigo’s highlight of his career is special.
    As always Sebastian does a great job describing the experience of wearing Fougere Royale, with it’s invigorating blast of bergamot and mediterranean herbs in the opening.
    Thank you for the wonderful draw!
    From Romania, EU.

  • MaDD says:

    Hello,
    The history of fougere fragrances was exciting to read and listen from both, in Rodrigo’s interview the story was more fascinating and detalied. Was interesting how Rodrigo’s create the perfume, the conception, his effort to put a modern vibe on original scent and how he tried to substitute coumarin in first phase of creation.
    Of course, Sebastian in his style describe how the notes are combined in this fougere masterpiece and he explain why Fougere Royal got first place in many of his Top fougere fragrances.
    I live in Bucharest, Romania (UE)
    All the best!

  • Kacper says:

    I have just recently tried Amouage Bracken and it immediately brought back memories of this fragrance. What do you know, a couple of days later Sebastian uploads his review of this timeless gem. I absolutely agree with him on how Fougere Royale is the quintessential fougere. As always, it’s a real joy listening to his reviews. Same goes for Rodrigo; not only is he a great perfumer but also an amazingly knowledgable man. He definitely succeeded on becoming a “responsible restorer”.
    Warsaw, Poland.

  • rzetelskik says:

    I have just recently tried Amouage Bracken and it immediately brought back memories of this fragrance. What do you know, a couple of days later Sebastian uploads his review of this timeless gem. I absolutely agree with him on how Fougere Royale is the quintessential fougere. As always, it’s a real joy listening to his reviews. Same goes for Rodrigo; not only is he a great perfumer but also an amazingly knowledgable man. He definitely succeeded on becoming a “responsible restorer”.
    Warsaw, Poland.

  • Jarrod Boggarty says:

    I absolutely be love this Fragrance. I was introduced to it this year and it is so green and bright. The opening is outstanding and the dry down is delicious. It’s a very masculine fragrance.