Lavender Thorne
←
+
+
+
+
−
−
−
−
← Back to discovery
Red Potion
by The Merchant of Venice
Red Potion presents a smooth, warm, and sweetly woody fragrance with a complex interplay of herbal and aromatic notes, evoking the image of freshly picked strawberries without any actual berry note. It shares strong similarities with Baccarat Rouge 540, especially in its radiant, slightly meditative core, though it feels softer, more accessible, and less medicinal or pine-heavy. The scent unfolds with a delicately sweet top layer of immortelle and orange, leading into a middle of honeysuckle and rosemary that adds an aromatic freshness, before settling into a rich base of sandalwood, moss, and tonka bean. The overall impression is elegant yet playful—chic, modern, and subtly sensual—bordering on a woody chypre. It projects moderately with a moderate sillage and performs best during evening wear or in autumn, with a longevity that meets or slightly exceeds the average for niche fragrances.
Pros
- +Offers a more wearable and accessible interpretation of Baccarat Rouge 540 with less medicinal or bitter edge
- +Smooth, soft, and well-balanced, making it versatile and pleasant to wear
- +Intense, warm base notes provide admirable depth and longevity
Cons
- −Can feel divisive due to its cloning of Baccarat Rouge 540, which may deter those seeking originality
- −Some users report a slightly unpleasant or odd aroma, particularly a dusty or off-balance bitterness in the dry-down
- −Despite being marketed as unisex, it leans strongly feminine and may not appeal to male wearers