WHAT I SMELL: Triomphe opens with a spicy bergamot and a little pepper; it’s warm and inviting and well blended.  After a few minutes the rose makes it presence, but it’s really muted by the warmth of the base which is rather smooth and creamy.  As time progresses, the fragrance projects the patchouli woodiness and seems to sink deeper in a warmish pool.  The fragrance begins to dry out, but it’s so full-bodied with the florals that help to give this so much shape.  After around 30 minutes the fragrance really dries out and that rounded floral makes way for the balsam and the patchouli takes the center stage. In the end, you’re left with a lovely slightly smoky, nutty and peppery woody scent.

From the Rance 1795 website:

Only the word Triumph could describe Napoleon’s immense glory. And Triomphe was the name of one of the perfumes François Rancé dedicated to the idol of his life.

Napoleon loved the fragrances of his native island, and François Rancé drew inspiration from these: the light perfume of citrus fruit merges with the fragrance of roses and orange blossom, adorned with Grasse jasmine and Florentine iris. Cedar wood and musk, with hints of vanilla, give the fragrance intensity. 

A decoration which represents the military virtues of the Victor was etched onto the glass by a Parisian master glassmaker. It is today as it was 200 years ago.

The precious perfume is made entirely of the rarest and most highly-prized natural essences, obtained from the best years, i.e. “millésimé“(vintage) mixed, stirred and left to age according to Rancé tradition.

Head Notes:  bergamot, neroli, mandarin

Heart Notes:  Bulgarian Rose, magnolia, wisteria, nutmeg

Base Notes:  patchouli, cistus labdanum, tolu balsam, Reunion vanilla

WHAT IT SMELLS LIKE TO ME:  The sophisticated hound

THREE ADJECTIVES THAT DESCRIBE TRIOMPHE:  classic, classy, gentlemanly

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT TRIOMPHE:  None to be found.  How is this possible given how fantastic this is?!

BOTTOM LINE:  Rance has been operating in perfumery since the 18th Century and I can see why.  If this is any indication of their products, I need to do some more exploring.  And how pretty is that bottle?!

• Bone Rating: 4 out of 5 possible bones
• Scent: Aromatic Fougere
• Classification: Masculine
• Expense: $110 for 50ml EdP