GUERLAIN Absolus Allegoria Ambre Samar Review: Spicy and Sensual

Comments in the office included: ''I can't stop spraying it, I love how it smells like rum and cherry coke.'' ''this is the definition of hot and sexy" "I feel like it glows!".

Guerlain's Ambre Samar is the latest captivating addition to the Absolus Allegoria collection. The Absolus Allegoria collection is Guerlain's exploration of the world's wonders at dusk, and Ambre Samar perfectly embodies this vision.

Launched in 2025 and crafted by the talented Delphine Jelk, this Eau de Parfum delves into the powerful and mysterious facets of nature revealed by moonlight. The campaign imagery and the stunning red bottle, inspired by a lunar eclipse, immediately draw you into this intriguing narrative, promising a scent experience that is both sensual and profound.

If you're captivated by the allure of the night and fragrances that tell a story, Ambre Samar is calling you.

You crave a fragrance that is both deeply sensual and subtly gourmand, with a captivating play of light and shadow. Ambre Samar is for those who appreciate rich, warm scents that evoke a sense of mystery and sophistication.

If you love the idea of a perfume that feels sexy and seductive to wear, this is one to experience. It's a scent that makes a statement without being overwhelming, perfect for someone who wants their fragrance to be memorable and intriguing.

Ambre Samar opens with a vibrant and intriguing blend of frankincense, almond, and cardamom. The frankincense provides a touch of balsamic depth, while the almond adds a subtle, almost creamy sweetness, and the cardamom brings a warm, spicy lift.

As the fragrance unfolds, the heart reveals a rich Amber Gold Accord, beautifully intertwined with the fruity, slightly liqueur-like note of davana and a precious amber tincture crafted by Guerlain. This creates a radiant warmth that feels both opulent and inviting. The dry down settles into a smooth and resinous base of benzoin, patchouli, and tonka bean.

The benzoin offers a sweet, vanilla-like warmth, the patchouli provides an earthy, slightly dark anchor, and the tonka bean adds a comforting, almondy sweetness.

While it has its own unique character, think of the comforting warmth of a spiced honey drink or the rich aroma of a luxurious mocha. There are hints of cinnamon and clove woven throughout, adding to its inviting, gourmand facets.

Ambre Samar shares a certain warm, spiced amber DNA with fragrances like PDM Oajan , By Kilian Angel Share, and Hermes Ambre Narguile.

These all lean into sweet, spicy amber profiles. Within the Guerlain family, you might find subtle nods to Guerlain Honey Tobacco with its honeyed warmth, Guerlain Vetiver in its underlying structure, Guerlain Epices Exquis with its prominent cardamom note, and even a hint of clove found in Guerlain Lui.

In terms of performance and intensity, it has been compared to the powerful presence of Guerlain Santal Royal and Encens Mythique.

Fragrance Family: Oriental Spicy

Top Notes: Frankincense, Almond, Cardamom

Heart Notes: Amber Gold Accord, Davana, Amber Tincture

Base Notes: Benzoin, Patchouli, Tonka Bean

Ambre Samar is a powerful and long-lasting Eau de Parfum. Based on initial impressions and comparisons, you can expect this fragrance to have significant longevity, potentially lasting well. For me, it lasted around 8 hours, and even longer on my clohtes.

Its sillage is notable; it projects confidently, creating a warm, inviting aura around the wearer – definitely in the "Lingers in room" to "Passenger Seat" range, making its presence known in a sophisticated way.

Given its warm, spicy, and resinous character, you'd think Ambre Samar would be best for the colder weather, but I've enjoyed wearing it during the heatwave, as its hot and spicy side matches the temperature. However, it may  be too much for some.

In terms of time of day, it's particularly well-suited for evening wear, adding a touch of mystery and sensuality to any occasion. Think cosy nights by the fire, elegant dinners, or any time you want to feel confident and captivating. 

The bottle is a true highlight. It's the iconic Allegoria collection bottle, but for Absolus Allegoria, it takes on a stunning, vibrant red hue inspired by the dramatic colour of a red moon during a lunar eclipse.

Made in France with 15% recycled glass, it feels substantial and luxurious in your hand. The attention to detail, including the unscrewable spray and transparent lacquer for easier recycling, showcases Guerlain's commitment to both beauty and sustainability. It's a bottle you'll be proud to display.