Raed

Olfactory Experience

Raed opens with that familiar saffron-kissed jasmine, aiming for Baccarat Rouge's sugared radiance. It gets about 80% there. The sweetness is present, though less refined. The heart leans heavily on amberwood. This is where it deviates; less airy, more wood shavings. The ambergris imitation is passable, lending a salty mineral edge. Drydown is a warm, slightly scratchy blend of fir resin and cedar, with a grounding musk. The original's ethereal quality is missing. Raed feels denser, earthier.

Final Thoughts

Raed captures the *idea* of Baccarat Rouge. It's a good choice for those intrigued by the profile but scared off by the price tag. Is it a perfect substitute? No. The original possesses a luminosity and nuanced development this lacks. But if you want a daily wear version, a cozy, less challenging interpretation that won't break the bank? Then Raed delivers.

Performance Reality Check

The good news? It lasts. Expect a solid 6-8 hours on skin. Projection is moderate for the first couple of hours, creating a noticeable scent bubble. After that, it settles closer, becoming a skin scent. Be warned, overspraying amplifies the synthetic amberwood and can become cloying.