Al Haramain has made waves once again with the 2023 release of their French Collection additions: Noir and Rouge. These two Eau de Parfums not only offer intriguing olfactory experiences but also arrive in beautifully designed, heavyweight bottles that make an immediate impression. Whether you're a fragrance aficionado or someone simply looking for a great gift, these scents deserve your attention. In this review, we explore the opening impressions, scent profiles, and overall appeal of Al Haramain Noir and Rouge.
First Look: Packaging & Presentation
From the moment you lay eyes on the packaging, it’s clear that Al Haramain is aiming for luxury. Both Noir and Rouge come in sleek, premium boxes with a glossy finish, exuding elegance. The bottles are substantial, made from thick glass with minimalist labels and elegant caps. Noir features a deep black design, while Rouge stands out with a bold red finish.
These bottles not only feel expensive but also function as excellent additions to any dresser or fragrance display.
Al Haramain Noir: Sophisticated & Spicy
Top Notes: Black Pepper, Neroli, Grapefruit
Heart Notes: Saffron, Honey, Cardamom
Base Notes: Argwood (Oud), Patchouli, Vetiver
Noir opens with a burst of black pepper that tingles the senses. It's spicy, bold, and immediately energizing. Grapefruit adds a zesty freshness, while the neroli remains subtle. As the fragrance settles, the cardamom emerges as a star, adding a clean and aromatic quality that plays well with the spiced sweetness of honey.
The dry-down reveals the richness of oud, patchouli, and vetiver, lending the fragrance an earthy, woody depth that balances its initial brightness. Noir feels polished, well-blended, and mature without being old-fashioned. It's unisex, but those who enjoy spicy, woody accords will be especially drawn to it.
When to Wear:
Ideal for spring, summer evenings, and cooler days when you want something that transitions effortlessly from casual to formal.
Overall Impression:
If you enjoy cardamom-driven fragrances with a grounded, woody base, Al Haramain Noir is a solid addition to your rotation. It’s a familiar scent profile, yet presented in a fresh and refined way.
Al Haramain Rouge: Baccarat Inspiration with a Twist
Top Notes: Saffron, Jasmine
Heart Notes: Amberwood, Ambergris
Base Notes: Resins, Cedar
One spray of Rouge, and it’s instantly clear: this fragrance bears a strong resemblance to Baccarat Rouge 540. The saffron opening gives it that signature airy sweetness, while jasmine adds a subtle floral touch that isn’t overly dominant.
As Rouge develops, the amberwood and ambergris create a radiant, slightly salty warmth that clings to the skin. The dry-down is smooth, with resins and cedar providing a clean and polished finish.
While it doesn’t attempt to reinvent the Baccarat DNA, it succeeds as a more affordable and wearable interpretation.
When to Wear:
All year round, but particularly great for evenings or any occasion when you want to leave a lasting impression.
Overall Impression:
Al Haramain Rouge is ideal for fans of Baccarat Rouge 540. While not an exact copy, it channels the same luxurious and luminous feeling, making it a solid choice for anyone who wants that experience without the designer price tag.
Final Thoughts: Two Strong Entries
Al Haramain's Noir and Rouge each bring something valuable to the table. Noir is spicy, aromatic, and grounded, perfect for those who like warmth and depth. Rouge, on the other hand, is airy, sweet, and modern, ideal for lovers of sophisticated yet wearable scents.
Both fragrances are housed in stunning bottles, making them as visually appealing as they are aromatic. Whether buying for yourself or as a gift, you won’t be disappointed.
If we had to pick? Noir for those who crave complexity and spice. Rouge for fans of Baccarat-style fragrances and elegant sweetness.
