Baccarat Rouge 540

Baccarat Rouge 540

Creator & Story
Concieved by perfumer Francis Kurkdjian for Baccarat’s 250th anniversary, Baccarat Rouge 540 translates crystal-making alchemy into scent. Its name refers to the 540 °C temperature at which clear crystal merges with 24-carat gold to turn a rich scarlet red. Originally limited to Baccarat crystal bottles, it soon became a beloved mainstream staple. 

Fragrance Family & Notes

• Olfactory Family: Woody-amber floral, warmly radiant yet modern. Top Notes: Saffron (warm spiciness), Jasmine (airy floral brightness)
  Heart/Middle Notes: Amberwood, Ambergris (Ambroxan) – sensual amber tones with mineral facets
  Base Notes: Fir Resin, Cedarwood, Oakmoss, Sweet gourmand hints, Ethyl Maltol (candy-like sweetness) 

Scent Profile Summary
Fresh, luminous jasmine and saffron give way to rich amber and woody layers anchored in a subtly sweet, mineral-infused base. The result is a bright yet velvety, sophisticated scent. 

Performance & Wearability

• Longevity:

  • Many users report 8–12+ hours of wear on skin and fabric. Some even experience lingering scent for days on clothing or leather. 

• Sillage & Projection:

  • Strong initial projection; leaves a noticeable, luxurious aura or “cloud.” It gradually softens to a refined skin scent. 

• Versatility:

  • Considered unisex and suitable year-round; especially enchanting in cooler weather due to its amber depth, yet fresh enough for evening wear in warmer months. 

Critical Recognition & Popularity

• Cultural Impact:

  • A viral, frequently imitated fragrance, beloved worldwide for its opulent yet accessible appeal. Acclaim:

  • InStyle labeled it “Best Long-Lasting” luxury fragrance. 

  • Cosmopolitan and Who What Wear confirm its iconic status and consistent editorial praise. 

• Celebrity Favorites:

  • Loved by public figures like Kathy Hilton and Olivia Rodrigo. 

• Awards:

  • Maison Francis Kurkdjian received the Fragrance of the Year (Hollywood Beauty Award) for BR540 in 2024. 
    

    Summary Table

    Feature	Description
    Fragrance Family	Woody-Amber Floral
    Top Notes	Saffron, Jasmine
    Heart Notes	Amberwood, Ambergris (Ambroxan)
    Base Notes	Fir Resin, Cedarwood, Oakmoss, Sweet gourmand
    Scent Vibe	Bright & airy to warm, sensual, crystalline
    Longevity	8–12+ hours (some report multi-day scent on fabric)
    Projection/Sillage	Strong initial aura forming a “cloud,” then softens
    Versatility	Unisex; year-round, especially enchanting in cool climates
    Reputation	Cult favorite; critically lauded; celebrity-endorsed
    Considerations	High price point; polarizing—test before committing

    
    Baccarat Rouge 540 is a lavish, captivating scent—a modern classic that merges airy elegance with sensuous amber depth. If you're drawn to fragrances that feel both luminous and indulgent, it's a worthy trial—even just as a decant.