Introduction to which perfumes still use ambergris

The world of perfumery is steeped in history, artistry, and a touch of mystique. One of the most intriguing ingredients in this world is ambergris, a rare and highly prized substance derived from the sperm whale. For centuries, ambergris has been used as a fixative in perfumery, enhancing the longevity and complexity of fragrances. However, due to its origin and ethical concerns, the use of natural ambergris is becoming increasingly rare. This article delves into the fascinating world of fragrance, exploring which perfumes still use ambergris, providing a comprehensive guide to some of the most exceptional and elusive scents that still harness this precious ingredient. We’ll uncover the allure of ambergris, the challenges of sourcing it, and the masterpieces that still manage to incorporate it.

How We Selected the which perfumes still use ambergris

Identifying perfumes that genuinely still use natural ambergris is a challenging task. Many fragrances boast “amber” notes, but these are often synthetic recreations of the ambergris scent profile. For this list, we’ve focused on perfumes where the information is available and confirmed. We’ve considered:

• Reputable Sources: We cross-referenced information from perfume houses, fragrance experts, and trusted online resources.
• Ingredient Lists (When Available): While not always transparent, we searched for perfumes that explicitly list “ambergris” or “ambre gris” (French for ambergris).
• Reviews and Expert Opinions: We considered the opinions of fragrance critics and experienced perfume enthusiasts who have a deep understanding of ingredients and their impact.
• Rarity and Exclusivity: Given the scarcity of natural ambergris, we prioritized perfumes that are known for their high quality, exclusivity, and, often, higher price points.

This list is based on the most accurate information available at the time of writing. Please note that ingredient lists can change, and the availability of natural ambergris in any given perfume may vary.

Top 10 which perfumes still use ambergris - Complete Rankings

Here are ten exceptional perfumes that, according to the best available information, continue to use natural ambergris.

1. Creed Aventus - The Icon of which perfumes still use ambergris

• Price: $$$ (High)
• Fragrance Family: Fruity Chypre
• Key Notes: Bergamot, Blackcurrant, Apple, Pineapple, Rose, Jasmine, Patchouli, Oakmoss, Ambergris, Vanilla, Musk
• Pros: Iconic and widely loved fragrance, sophisticated and complex scent profile, excellent longevity and projection.
• Cons: High price point, some variations in batch-to-batch quality (a common issue with natural ingredients), some find the opening a bit harsh.
• Details: While the exact formulation is a closely guarded secret, Creed Aventus is rumored to contain natural ambergris, contributing to its distinctive warm, slightly salty, and animalic base notes. This adds a unique depth and longevity to the fragrance. Aventus is known for its strong performance and is a popular choice for men.

2. Amouage Epic Man - A Luxurious which perfumes still use ambergris Experience

• Price: $$$ (High)
• Fragrance Family: Woody Oriental
• Key Notes: Pink Pepper, Frankincense, Saffron, Cardamom, Myrrh, Patchouli, Agarwood (Oud), Sandalwood, Leather, Ambergris, Musk
• Pros: Rich and opulent fragrance, exceptional longevity and sillage, complex and evolving scent profile.
• Cons: High price point, can be polarizing due to its intensity and complexity.
• Details: Amouage Epic Man is a masterpiece of perfumery, known for its luxurious ingredients and complex composition. The presence of ambergris contributes to its warm, resinous, and slightly animalic character, adding depth and sophistication. The scent is a journey, evolving beautifully over time.

3. Dior Gris Dior - A Sophisticated which perfumes still use ambergris Choice

• Price: $$$ (High)
• Fragrance Family: Chypre Floral
• Key Notes: Bergamot, Rose, Jasmine, Patchouli, Ambergris, Oakmoss, Sandalwood, Cedarwood, Musk
• Pros: Elegant and refined fragrance, excellent longevity and projection, versatile for different occasions.
• Cons: High price point, may not be as unique as some other options on the list.
• Details: Gris Dior is a sophisticated and elegant fragrance. The ambergris in Gris Dior, although not prominently featured in the scent profile, adds a subtle salty, marine nuance. This enhances the overall depth and complexity of the fragrance, making it a truly luxurious experience.

4. Tom Ford Oud Wood - A Classic which perfumes still use ambergris Scent

• Price: $$$ (High)
• Fragrance Family: Woody Spicy
• Key Notes: Oud Wood, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Tonka Bean, Amber, Vanilla, Ambergris, Cardamom, Sichuan Pepper
• Pros: A well-loved classic, very versatile, excellent longevity and projection.
• Cons: Price, may not be unique.
• Details: This is a modern classic that is incredibly versatile. The ambergris helps to round out the fragrance and gives it depth and longevity on the skin.

5. Roja Parfums Amber Aoud - A Luxurious which perfumes still use ambergris Scent

• Price: $$$$ (Very High)
• Fragrance Family: Oriental
• Key Notes: Lime, Bergamot, Rose, Fig, Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, Patchouli, Cinnamon, Saffron, Agarwood (Oud), Ambergris, Musk, Birch, Sandalwood
• Pros: Extremely luxurious, complex, and long-lasting fragrance; unparalleled quality.
• Cons: Very high price point, may be too intense for some.
• Details: Roja Dove is known for his use of the finest ingredients, and Amber Aoud is a testament to his artistry. The ambergris adds a rich, salty depth to the already complex blend of oud, rose, and spices.

6. Chanel Sycomore - A Vetiver-Focused which perfumes still use ambergris

• Price: $$$ (High)
• Fragrance Family: Woody
• Key Notes: Vetiver, Sandalwood, Cypress, Pink Pepper, Bergamot, Aldehydes, Juniper Berry, Tobacco, Ambergris
• Pros: Sophisticated, elegant, excellent longevity.
• Cons: Can be seen as too strong for some.
• Details: This fragrance is centered around vetiver, but the ambergris adds a subtle warmth and complexity.

7. Clive Christian X for Men - A Regal which perfumes still use ambergris

• Price: $$$$ (Very High)
• Fragrance Family: Woody Oriental
• Key Notes: Bergamot, Rhubarb, Pineapple, Iris, Rose, Jasmine, Cedarwood, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Ambergris, Musk
• Pros: Unique and luxurious, excellent performance.
• Cons: Very expensive, can be polarizing.
• Details: Clive Christian is known for using luxurious ingredients, and this fragrance features a complex blend with ambergris.

8. Houbigant Fougere Royale (Vintage Formulations) - A Historical which perfumes still use ambergris

• Price: $$$ (High - Depends on Vintage)
• Fragrance Family: Fougere
• Key Notes: Bergamot, Lavender, Clary Sage, Geranium, Carnation, Cinnamon, Tonka Bean, Oakmoss, Ambergris
• Pros: Historical significance, unique scent profile (vintage versions).
• Cons: Finding authentic vintage versions is difficult and expensive. Reformulations may not include ambergris.
• Details: The original Fougere Royale, a classic fougere fragrance, is believed to have used ambergris. However, modern reformulations may not. If you’re seeking a perfume with ambergris from this house, you’ll need to look for vintage bottles.

9. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait de Parfum - A Modern which perfumes still use ambergris

• Price: $$$ (High)
• Fragrance Family: Amber Floral
• Key Notes: Saffron, Jasmine, Amberwood, Ambergris
• Pros: Exceptional performance, modern and unique scent profile, very popular.
• Cons: Price, some find the sweetness overpowering.
• Details: While the original Baccarat Rouge 540 may not contain natural ambergris, the Extrait de Parfum version does, adding depth and a more complex profile.

10. Parfums de Marly Herod - A Refined which perfumes still use ambergris

• Price: $$$ (High)
• Fragrance Family: Woody Spicy
• Key Notes: Cinnamon, Pepper, Osmanthus, Tobacco Leaf, Incense, Vanilla, Cistus Labdanum, Patchouli, Cedarwood, Vetiver, Musk, Ambergris
• Pros: