The Verdict

Scent Profile: A rich fusion of jammy rose, smooth spices, and deep woods.  
Seasonality: Perfect for cooler months or evening wear with a sophisticated depth.  
Sillage : Moderate, projecting up to 6 feet.  
Longevity: 10+ hours.  

Introduction  

Etat Libre dOrange, a Parisian fragrance house celebrated for its bold and avant-garde creations, has crafted 500 Years EDP as part of its Extraordinary Collection. This fragrance stands out as a modern interpretation of the timeless rose and oud duo, blending these classic elements with unexpected twists. Known for its provocative and unorthodox approach, Etat Libre dOrange has once again delivered a scent that challenges conventions while remaining wearable and elegant. 500 Years EDP is a testament to the brands ability to reimagine traditional accords in a contemporary context, offering a fragrance that feels both familiar and refreshingly innovative.  

Fragrance Notes  

Top Notes: Bergamot HE, Cardamom Pure Jungle Essence™, Saffron
Middle Notes: Turkish Rose Absolute, Oud HE, Geranium Burbon HE
Base Notes: Amber Woods, Patchouli, Suede

Fragrance Profile  

500 Years EDP opens with a vivid trio of Bergamot HE, Cardamom Pure Jungle Essence™, and Saffron. The Bergamot offers a sparkling citrus brightness that instantly enlivens the senses. Cardamom introduces a smooth, aromatic warmth, enriched by its jungle-sourced purity, while Saffron infuses a luxurious, spicy nuance that adds exotic depth to the opening. Together, these top notes create a dynamic and elegant entrance that feels both refined and captivating.

As the scent develops, it reveals a lush and complex heart of Turkish Rose Absolute, Oud HE, and Geranium Bourbon HE. The Turkish Rose is opulent and slightly fruity, lending a jammy sweetness without veering into excess. Oud HE (High Efficiency) introduces a smoky, resinous woodiness that adds mystique and depth. Geranium Bourbon, with its fresh green floralcy and subtle minty undertones, lifts the composition, balancing the richness of rose and oud with crisp clarity. This heart is both romantic and enigmatic, a masterful blend of floral intensity and woody sophistication.

The fragrance settles into a long-lasting base of Amber Woods, Patchouli, and Suede. Amber Woods provide a creamy, woody warmth that softens and smooths the composition. Patchouli adds an earthy richness and slightly balsamic edge, anchoring the scent with depth. Suede introduces a refined, tactile softness—evoking the texture of fine leather—giving the dry-down an irresistible plushness. The base is smooth, comforting, and effortlessly luxurious, creating a lasting impression on the skin.

Occasion  

500 Years EDP is ideal for evening wear and formal events, where its deep, textured profile can shine. The interplay of rose, oud, and suede brings a sensual edge perfect for intimate dinners, elegant affairs, or date nights. Its refined balance also suits semi-casual occasions, where it adds an aura of quiet confidence and sophistication.

Season  

This fragrance performs beautifully in cooler months, where its amber-rich base and oud heart thrive in crisp air. It's especially fitting for fall and winter, but also adapts well to cool spring evenings, thanks to the fresh lift of bergamot and geranium. A signature scent for transitional weather, it offers comfort and style year-round when worn thoughtfully.

Performance  

The performance of 500 Years EDP is striking and dependable. The top notes make an immediate impression without overwhelming, transitioning gracefully into a rich, evolving heart. As it dries down, the suede, patchouli, and amber woods remain present and enveloping. Its development is smooth and engaging, maintaining a luxurious aura from the first spray to the last trace.

Longevity  

10+ hours.  

Sillage  

Moderate, projecting up to 6 feet. 

Conclusion  

Etat Libre d’Orange’s 500 Years EDP is a modern reimagining of the classic rose-oud theme, enriched with smooth spices, luminous florals, and a suede-soft base. Its opening sparkles with bergamot and saffron, followed by a lush heart of rose and oud, and finishes with the grounding warmth of amber woods and patchouli. Perfect for evening and cooler seasons, it strikes a fine balance between sensuality and elegance. With powerful projection and long wear, it stands out as a refined signature scent for those who appreciate fragrance as an art form. 500 Years EDP is both timeless and progressive—an olfactory tribute to bold craftsmanship and emotional depth.