Byzance by Rochas c1987

Byzance by Rochas was launched in 1987, a decade marked by bold fashion statements, opulence, and a nostalgic resurgence of historical and cultural motifs in design and art. This period saw the world recovering from the economic upheavals of the 1970s, with a renewed interest in luxury and excess that characterized the 1980s. In this context, Parfums Rochas chose the name "Byzance" for its perfume, a name that evokes the grandeur and mystique of the Byzantine Empire, known for its rich cultural heritage and luxurious artistry.

The French word "Byzance" translates to "Byzantium" in English, referring to the ancient city that later became Constantinople and is now Istanbul. By choosing this name, Rochas intended to evoke the opulence, sophistication, and exotic allure of the Byzantine Empire. The Byzantine mosaics of Ravenna, renowned for their intricate beauty and shimmering golden hues, served as a direct inspiration for the fragrance. These mosaics, with their depth and complexity, symbolize a world of luxury and grandeur, qualities that the perfume sought to encapsulate.

Byzantium and perfumery share a commonality in their dedication to craftsmanship, luxury, and sensory indulgence. Just as the Byzantine Empire was known for its detailed and lavish art, so too is the world of perfumery dedicated to the creation of intricate and sumptuous scents. The name "Byzance" is therefore appropriate for a perfume as it suggests an experience that is both rich and complex, inviting the wearer to indulge in a sensory journey reminiscent of the empire's splendor.

A woman who would have related to a fragrance called "Byzance" in 1987 is one who appreciates history, luxury, and artistry. She is likely sophisticated, confident, and drawn to the exotic and the opulent. This woman might see herself as a modern-day empress, commanding attention and admiration through her elegance and poise. The fragrance would resonate with her as a symbol of her own inner strength and beauty, much like the empresses of Byzantium.

The word "Byzance" evokes images of golden mosaics, lavish palaces, and intricate tapestries. It conjures feelings of mystery, romance, and timeless beauty. The very mention of Byzance suggests a journey into a world of exotic splendor, where every detail is crafted with care and imbued with meaning. This is a world where the past and present merge, offering a sense of connection to a rich cultural heritage while remaining relevant to the contemporary quest for beauty and elegance.

Byzance by Rochas, created by the master perfumers Nicolas Mamounas and Alberto Morillas, embodies these qualities in its composition. The fragrance invites its wearer to step into a world of opulence and history, blending modern sophistication with timeless allure. It is a scent that speaks to the soul, offering a sensory experience that is as luxurious and enchanting as the mosaics of Ravenna that inspired it.

Launch:

Rochas allocated an impressive budget of FFr70 million (approximately $11.6 million) for the European launch of Byzance on October 15th. This significant investment underscores the brand's confidence in the perfume's potential and its commitment to making a substantial impact in the highly competitive fragrance market. The launch was meticulously planned to capture the attention of European consumers, combining an extensive marketing campaign with luxurious and evocative branding. This strategic approach paid off, as Rochas quickly recouped its investment, signaling a successful reception and strong sales performance.

The European launch was designed to create a buzz and establish Byzance as a standout fragrance in the market. By investing heavily in advertising, promotions, and high-profile events, Rochas ensured that Byzance captured the imagination of consumers and media alike. This initial success in Europe laid a strong foundation for the perfume, building a reputation and creating anticipation for its release in other markets.

For the American launch, Rochas anticipated needing an even larger budget, estimated between $15 million and $20 million. This reflects the scale and complexity of the American market, which requires significant investment to achieve widespread recognition and adoption. The strategy involved leveraging the momentum and success from the European launch to create a sense of exclusivity and desirability around Byzance. By carefully timing the American launch to follow the European debut, Rochas aimed to capitalize on the fragrance's growing reputation and the curiosity it had already sparked among potential American consumers.

The substantial budget for the American launch would be allocated towards a comprehensive marketing campaign, including television commercials, magazine advertisements, in-store promotions, and high-profile launch events. The goal was to establish Byzance as a must-have fragrance in the United States, appealing to the sophisticated and discerning tastes of American consumers. This investment reflects Rochas' understanding of the importance of a strong market entry and the need to sustain momentum to achieve long-term success.

In summary, Rochas' significant financial commitment to both the European and American launches of Byzance highlights the brand's confidence in the fragrance and its potential to become a major player in the global perfume market. The careful planning and substantial investment aimed to create a lasting impression, ensuring that Byzance would be remembered as a luxurious and captivating scent that resonated with consumers across continents.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a soft floral oriental fragrance for women. A heavy and opulent aroma. Byzance is a complicated scent of aldehydes, green notes and citrus combined with jasmine and tuberose nestled in base notes of sandalwood, musk and vanilla. The soft oriental notes are based on the sweet spices such as cinnamon, cloves, pepper and allspice.

• Top notes: aldehydes, allspice, carnation, green notes, mandarin orange, basil, lemon, cardamom
• Middle notes: cinnamon, clove, tuberose, orris root, jasmine, Turkish rose, ylang ylang, lily of the valley, anise
• Base notes: pepper, sandalwood, amber, musk, vanilla, heliotrope, cedar

Scent Story:

In the heart of ancient Byzantium, amidst the grandeur of its intricate and colorful mosaics in Ravenna, there exists a tale woven with the essence of opulence and artistry, much like the fragrance that would later bear its name. Byzance by Rochas emerges from this tapestry of history and sensory richness, classified as a soft floral oriental fragrance for women, embodying the essence of Byzantine elegance.

As you step into the ancient city, your eyes are immediately drawn to the shimmering hues of blue and gold that adorn the walls and ceilings of basilicas. These colors, reminiscent of the Byzantine Empire's grandeur, form the backdrop of your journey into fragrance. The azure blue of the sky above Ravenna reflects in the sparkling aldehydes that open Byzance, creating a sense of airy freshness. Golden rays of sunlight filter through lemon and mandarin orange, their citrusy brightness echoing the glistening gold leaf of Byzantine mosaics.

You walk along ancient spice markets, where the air is thick with the aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. These spices, mirrored in Byzance's heart notes, infuse the fragrance with a warm and exotic allure. Clove and cinnamon blend with tuberose and Turkish rose, their floral richness reminiscent of the lush gardens that once adorned Byzantine palaces. Jasmine and ylang-ylang add a heady floral depth, while anise and lily of the valley lend a delicate touch, evoking the whispers of courtly intrigue.

As you continue your journey, you encounter the woody embrace of sandalwood and cedar, their textures as smooth as the polished marble floors of Byzantine cathedrals. Amber and musk envelop you like a luxurious robe, their warmth echoing the opulent tapestries that adorned Byzantine halls. Vanilla and heliotrope provide a soft, powdery finish, reminiscent of the gentle caress of Byzantine silk against your skin.

Throughout your exploration of Byzance, the sounds of distant hymns and murmurs of ancient prayers echo in the background, adding a spiritual and mystical dimension to your olfactory journey. The taste of sweet spices lingers on your palate, a reminder of Byzantium's culinary delights and exotic flavors that captivated traders and travelers alike.

In the end, Byzance by Rochas is more than just a fragrance—it is a sensory homage to the splendor and allure of Byzantium. It captures the essence of a civilization known for its artistry, wealth, and cultural influence, translating it into a perfume that celebrates complexity, elegance, and the timeless allure of the oriental floral genre. As you conclude your journey through this fragrant narrative, you carry with you the echoes of history and the enduring legacy of Byzance.

Product Line:

The Byzance product line by Rochas was extensive and thoughtfully curated to offer a variety of options for consumers to experience the luxurious fragrance. At the pinnacle of the range were the parfum options, starting with the 7.5ml Parfum Spray and Parfum Splash, the latter originally retailing for $78. These concentrated versions of Byzance captured the essence of the fragrance in its most pure and long-lasting form. For those desiring a bit more, there were also 15ml and 30ml Parfum Splash options, with the 30ml version originally retailing for $135.

For those who preferred a slightly lighter, yet still potent version of the fragrance, Byzance was available in Eau de Parfum. This line included a 3ml mini for those who wanted a taste of the luxurious scent or a portable option. The Eau de Parfum was also available in 25ml, 50ml (originally retailed for $68), and 100ml sizes, catering to a range of preferences for both occasional wear and daily indulgence.

The Eau de Toilette variants provided an even lighter and more versatile option. The Eau de Toilette Spray was available in 15ml, 30ml, 50ml, 100ml, and a generous 200ml size, ensuring that there was an option for every need, from travel-friendly to full-sized bottles for everyday use.

Byzance also extended its luxurious experience to body care products. The 30ml Voile Caresse Perfumed Dusting Powder offered a delicate, fragrant finish to the skin. For those who preferred a more moisturizing option, the 75ml Satin Caresse Body Lotion, 200ml Body Cream, and 200ml Body Lotion provided various textures and intensities of hydration, all infused with the captivating scent of Byzance.

In addition to these, the product line included practical yet indulgent options such as the 100ml Deodorant Spray, which combined effectiveness with the signature fragrance. The 100ml Perfumed Silkening Body Oil Spray offered a luxurious way to nourish the skin while enveloping it in the scent of Byzance. Lastly, the range was completed with a soap, allowing consumers to start their fragrance layering from the shower.

This comprehensive product line ensured that Byzance by Rochas could be a part of every aspect of a woman's beauty routine, from the initial fragrance application to the complementary body products, creating a cohesive and luxurious scent experience.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Byzance by Rochas, originally launched in 1987, underwent a significant reformulation in 2008. This reformulation marked a departure from its original composition, which had been celebrated for its rich and opulent blend of rose and jasmine notes. These floral elements were central to the fragrance's identity, evoking the luxurious and exotic essence of the Byzantine Empire that inspired its name. However, in the 2008 reformulation, these notes were notably muted, altering the scent profile that many had come to love.

The decision to reformulate Byzance might have been driven by various factors, including changing regulations in the perfume industry, shifts in consumer preferences, or the availability of certain raw materials. The muted rose and jasmine notes led to a different olfactory experience, one that perhaps aimed to align with contemporary tastes or to adhere to new ingredient restrictions. Despite these changes, the reformulated Byzance still aimed to maintain its core identity of luxury and elegance, albeit with a modified scent profile.

The response to the reformulated version of Byzance was mixed. While some consumers appreciated the updated fragrance for its modern appeal, others lamented the loss of the original's bold floral character. The muted floral notes meant that the fragrance no longer had the same depth and complexity, which had been key to its charm and allure. This change likely influenced the overall perception and reception of the fragrance in the market.

Ultimately, Byzance was discontinued in 2012, just four years after its reformulation. The discontinuation marked the end of an era for a perfume that had once captured the imagination with its historical and cultural references. The decision to discontinue Byzance might have been influenced by various factors, including sales performance, market trends, and the brand's strategic direction.

For loyal fans of Byzance, its discontinuation was a significant loss. The fragrance had become a part of their personal history, a scent that evoked memories and emotions tied to its rich floral composition. The muted reformulation and subsequent discontinuation meant that finding the original version became a pursuit of nostalgia for many enthusiasts, seeking to recapture the essence of the Byzance they had once known.

In summary, the 2008 reformulation and eventual discontinuation of Byzance by Rochas reflected the challenges and changes in the perfume industry. While the fragrance evolved to meet new demands and regulations, it ultimately could not sustain its presence in the market, leaving behind a legacy of luxury and opulence that still resonates with those who experienced its original splendor.

2017 Reformulation & Relaunch:

In 2017, Rochas sought to revive the legacy of Byzance with a reformulated and relaunched edition, positioning it as a spicy oriental fragrance for women. This modern interpretation aimed to capture the essence of the original while appealing to contemporary tastes and sensibilities. However, this edition diverged significantly from the beloved 1987 version, leading to mixed reactions among its fans.

Crafted as an eau de toilette, the 2017 Byzance was housed in a bottle design that paid homage to the classic elegance of Madame Rochas, featuring a modified version of its iconic packaging. This design choice aimed to evoke a sense of timeless sophistication and continuity with the brand's storied past. Despite these efforts, the reception of the new Byzance was far from universally positive.

Reviewers, particularly those with a deep affection for the original 1987 version, expressed dissatisfaction with the 2017 edition. The new fragrance was noted for its abundance of aldehydes, which imparted a sharp, soapy, and slightly metallic quality that many found off-putting. This was a stark contrast to the rich, floral, and opulent character of the original Byzance, which had been defined by its lush rose and jasmine notes.

The reformulated Byzance's classification as a spicy oriental fragrance suggested an attempt to blend warm, exotic spices with a touch of floral complexity. However, the prominent aldehydes overshadowed these elements, leading to a scent profile that felt unbalanced to many. This departure from the original's formula alienated long-time fans who were seeking the nostalgic and luxurious experience they remembered.

The 2017 relaunch of Byzance ultimately failed to capture the magic of its predecessor, and the fragrance was discontinued by 2019, just two years after its introduction. This brief lifespan reflects the challenges of reinterpreting a classic fragrance while trying to stay relevant in a modern market. The discontinuation underscored the difficulty of balancing innovation with the preservation of a beloved scent's core identity.

For enthusiasts of the original Byzance, the 2017 edition's failure to live up to expectations was a disappointment. It served as a reminder of the unique and irreplaceable nature of the 1987 fragrance, which had successfully encapsulated the opulence and exotic allure of its Byzantine inspiration. The brief resurgence of Byzance in 2017, followed by its swift discontinuation, left a lasting impression on the perfume community, highlighting the enduring challenge of reviving classic fragrances in a way that honors their legacy while appealing to new generations.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a spicy oriental fragrance for women.

• Top notes: aldehydes, spices, carnation, green notes, mandarin orange, basil, lemon and cardamom
• Middle notes: tuberose, orris root, jasmine, Turkish rose, ylang-ylang, lily of the valley and anise 
• Base notes: sandalwood, amber, musk, vanilla, heliotrope and cedar

 

Scent Profile:

Byzance by Rochas, classified as a spicy oriental fragrance for women, unfolds as a rich tapestry of aromatic and floral notes that create an intricate and captivating olfactory journey. The fragrance begins with a vibrant array of top notes that include aldehydes, spices, carnation, green notes, mandarin orange, basil, lemon, and cardamom. This complex blend immediately offers a burst of freshness and spice, setting a dynamic and energetic tone.

As Byzance evolves, it reveals a heart of opulent middle notes that contribute to its oriental character. Tuberose, orris root, jasmine, Turkish rose, ylang-ylang, lily of the valley, and anise combine to create a luxurious floral bouquet. The tuberose and jasmine lend a rich and heady floral intensity, while the Turkish rose adds a romantic and velvety touch. Ylang-ylang and lily of the valley enhance the composition with their delicate and airy floral nuances, balancing the deeper notes.

In its final stages, Byzance settles into a warm and sensual base that anchors the fragrance with depth and sophistication. Sandalwood, amber, musk, vanilla, heliotrope, and cedar provide a smooth and creamy foundation. Sandalwood and cedar add a woody richness, while amber and vanilla impart a sweet and resinous warmth. Musk and heliotrope contribute a powdery and sensual quality, ensuring a lingering trail that leaves a lasting impression.

Overall, Byzance by Rochas is a masterpiece of oriental perfumery, blending spicy and floral elements to create a fragrance that is both bold and sophisticated. Its intricate composition appeals to women who appreciate complexity and elegance in their scents, offering a journey of discovery with each wear. Despite its discontinuation, Byzance remains a cherished gem for fragrance enthusiasts who seek the timeless allure of spicy oriental fragrances.

Bottles:

CLICK HERE TO FIND BYZANCE BY ROCHAS PERFUME

2019 Reformulation & Relaunch:

In 2019, Rochas made another attempt to breathe new life into Byzance, reformulating and relaunching it as a floral amber (oriental) fragrance for women. This new edition aimed to blend the timeless allure of floral notes with the rich, warm undertones characteristic of amber fragrances, seeking to create a scent that would resonate with contemporary tastes while drawing inspiration from the original's opulent heritage.

Despite these intentions, the 2019 version of Byzance was met with a considerable amount of disappointment from reviewers and long-time fans of the fragrance. Many of these loyal enthusiasts found that the new formulation bore little to no resemblance to the iconic 1987 version that had captured their hearts. The original Byzance was renowned for its intricate blend of rich floral notes, particularly rose and jasmine, which were central to its luxurious and exotic character.

The floral amber classification of the 2019 Byzance suggested a scent profile that combined the sensuality of floral elements with the deep, resinous warmth of amber. However, the execution of this vision seemed to fall short of expectations. Reviewers noted that the new edition lacked the depth and complexity that made the original so distinctive and beloved. The anticipated connections to the vintage fragrance's opulent and exotic aura were not evident, leaving many to feel that the reformulated version was an entirely different scent under the same name.

This disconnection from the original Byzance's scent profile was particularly disheartening for those who had hoped to rekindle the nostalgia and luxurious experience of the 1987 fragrance. The reformulated Byzance's inability to capture the essence of its predecessor highlighted the challenges inherent in reimagining classic perfumes. While the 2019 edition aimed to appeal to modern sensibilities, it ultimately failed to honor the legacy and unique identity of the original Byzance.

The relaunch of Byzance in 2019 served as a stark reminder of the delicate balance required in the world of perfumery when updating or reintroducing iconic scents. While innovation and adaptation to contemporary trends are crucial, maintaining the core elements that define a fragrance's identity is equally important. For the fans of the original Byzance, the 2019 version's lack of resemblance to the 1987 scent meant that their cherished memories and olfactory experiences remained firmly in the past, unattainable in the new iteration of the perfume.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral amber fragrance for women.

• Top notes: bergamot, pear, neroli
• Middle notes: rose, heliotrope, freesia
• Base notes: vanilla absolute, musk, blonde woods

Scent Profile:

Byzance by Rochas, classified as a floral amber fragrance for women, presents a captivating blend that unfolds in layers of sophistication and warmth. Introduced with top notes of bergamot, pear, and neroli, the fragrance opens with a burst of citrusy freshness complemented by the fruity sweetness of pear. Neroli adds a touch of floral brightness, setting the stage for the fragrance's elegant evolution.

Moving into the heart of Byzance, the composition reveals a rich bouquet of middle notes that include rose, heliotrope, and freesia. The romantic essence of rose intertwines with the powdery sweetness of heliotrope, creating a floral harmony that is both luxurious and inviting. Freesia adds a delicate, airy quality, enhancing the fragrance with its light and fresh floral tones.

As Byzance settles into its base notes, it embraces a sensual and comforting finish. Vanilla absolute emerges as a prominent element, imparting a creamy sweetness that envelops the wearer in a warm embrace. Musk adds a subtle depth and sensuality, while blonde woods provide a sophisticated and lingering trail that enhances the fragrance's overall elegance.

This composition of Byzance is a testament to the artistry of perfumery, blending floral and amber accords to create a fragrance that is both timeless and modern. The interplay of citrus, floral, and woody notes ensures a complex and captivating olfactory experience, perfect for the confident and sophisticated woman. Despite its discontinuation, Byzance remains a cherished memory for those who appreciated its unique blend of elegance, warmth, and floral richness.

Bottle:

The 2019 edition of Byzance by Rochas is presented in an elegant and distinctive disk-shaped bottle, which serves as a tribute to the original 1987 design. This modern interpretation features a deep, dark blue hue accented with gold details, evoking a sense of luxury and sophistication. The design choice not only pays homage to the original packaging but also aims to attract contemporary consumers with its refined aesthetic.

This relaunched Byzance is available in three sizes: 40ml, 60ml, and 90ml Eau de Parfum concentration. These variations provide flexibility for different preferences and needs, whether for personal indulgence, travel convenience, or as a gift. The Eau de Parfum concentration ensures a rich and lasting scent, designed to envelop the wearer in the fragrance's luxurious aura throughout the day.

Despite the visually appealing bottle and the effort to retain a connection to its heritage, the 2019 Byzance has faced criticism for its divergence from the original scent. Many reviewers have expressed disappointment, noting that this new edition seems to bear little resemblance to the iconic 1987 version. The original Byzance was celebrated for its opulent blend of rose and jasmine, creating a rich and exotic floral experience. In contrast, the 2019 reformulation is classified as a floral amber (oriental) fragrance, with a different composition that does not capture the same depth and complexity.

The new fragrance profile of Byzance, although designed to appeal to modern tastes, has not resonated with those who cherished the original scent. The anticipated warmth and richness associated with amber and floral notes in the 2019 version failed to recreate the opulent and captivating essence that made the original Byzance a beloved classic.

In summary, while the 2019 Byzance by Rochas is visually stunning and pays homage to its predecessor through its bottle design, the fragrance itself has not met the expectations of long-time fans. The reformulation and relaunch, though well-intentioned, highlight the challenges of reinterpreting a classic scent while trying to maintain its legacy and appeal to a new generation of perfume enthusiasts.

Byzantine by Rochas:

In 1995, Rochas introduced Byzantine, a flanker scent to the original Byzance, created by the renowned perfumer Alberto Morillas. This new fragrance sought to build upon the rich heritage of its predecessor while offering a fresh interpretation that would captivate a new audience. As a flanker, Byzantine aimed to echo the opulence and exotic allure of Byzance but with its own unique twist, distinguishing itself within the brand's portfolio.

Alberto Morillas, celebrated for his ability to craft intricate and evocative fragrances, brought his expertise to the creation of Byzantine. His vision was to retain the luxurious and sophisticated essence of Byzance while infusing it with new elements that would make it stand out. The result was a fragrance that maintained the oriental and floral character of the original but introduced a modern sensibility, making it relevant to the mid-1990s fragrance market.

The launch of Byzantine came at a time when the perfume industry was experiencing a shift towards more contemporary and innovative scents. Consumers were increasingly seeking fragrances that not only smelled good but also told a story and evoked a strong emotional response. Byzantine aimed to fulfill this desire by offering a scent that was both familiar and novel, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.

Byzantine's composition likely included a blend of rich floral and oriental notes, reflecting Morillas's signature style. While specific notes of the fragrance are not detailed here, it can be inferred that the scent would have included elements that evoked luxury, warmth, and complexity—hallmarks of both Morillas's work and the original Byzance. This blend would have created a fragrance that was not just an echo of the past but a statement of contemporary elegance.

The reception of Byzantine highlighted the challenges of creating a successful flanker scent. While it retained some of the beloved aspects of Byzance, it also needed to establish its own identity. The fragrance had to balance honoring the legacy of the original while appealing to new consumers who may not have had the same nostalgic attachment. Despite these challenges, Byzantine managed to carve out its own niche, appreciated by those who recognized and valued the artistry of Morillas's creation.

In summary, Byzantine by Rochas, launched in 1995 and created by Alberto Morillas, was a sophisticated flanker to the original Byzance. It sought to blend the opulence and exotic allure of its predecessor with a modern sensibility, catering to a new generation of fragrance enthusiasts. Through its rich composition and the expertise of Morillas, Byzantine offered a unique and luxurious olfactory experience that bridged the past and the present.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a light floral oriental fragrance for women. Rochas reaches to the sun for a lighter version of the sensual and floral notes of Byzance. Thus is born Byzantine - a burst of fragrant neroli, mandarin, sweet pea, lily of the valley, orange blossoms, mimosa, cedarwood, sandalwood, musk and vanilla. The secret ingredient, a solar note, gives live and exuberance to this perfume.

• Top notes: orange blossom, solar note, neroli, bergamot, freesia, mandarin
• Middle notes: heliotrope, orange blossom, carnation, mimosa, lily-of-the-valley, sweet pea
• Base notes: sandalwood, cedar, heliotrope, vanilla, musk

Scent Profile:

Byzantine by Rochas, launched in 1995 and created by Alberto Morillas, is classified as a light floral oriental fragrance for women. This exquisite scent was designed to capture the essence of Byzance while introducing a lighter, more radiant interpretation. Rochas reached towards the sun to craft a fragrance that embodied the sensual and floral richness of Byzance but with a fresh, luminous twist, giving birth to Byzantine.

Byzantine opens with an invigorating burst of top notes that include orange blossom, neroli, bergamot, freesia, and mandarin. These bright, citrusy, and floral accords create an immediate impression of freshness and vitality. The inclusion of a unique solar note adds a lively, exuberant quality to the fragrance, evoking the warmth and brightness of sunlight. This solar note is the secret ingredient that sets Byzantine apart, infusing the perfume with an energetic and vibrant character.

The heart of Byzantine unfolds with a rich bouquet of floral middle notes. Heliotrope, orange blossom, carnation, mimosa, lily-of-the-valley, and sweet pea blend harmoniously to create a complex and enchanting floral medley. These notes add depth and sophistication, enhancing the fragrance's overall allure. The heliotrope and mimosa lend a powdery, sweet facet, while the lily-of-the-valley and sweet pea contribute a delicate, airy touch, balancing the richness of the other florals.

As the fragrance settles, the base notes of sandalwood, cedar, heliotrope, vanilla, and musk provide a warm and sensual foundation. The woody accords of sandalwood and cedar add a grounding, earthy quality, while the heliotrope continues to impart its sweet, almond-like aroma. The vanilla and musk enhance the scent's creamy, smooth texture, leaving a lasting impression of warmth and elegance.

Byzantine by Rochas is a masterful composition that balances lightness and richness, freshness and depth. It offers a radiant reinterpretation of Byzance, making it perfect for women who appreciate the sensual and floral notes of the original but seek a more luminous and lively fragrance. The solar note, in particular, imbues the perfume with an aura of exuberance and vitality, making it a captivating choice for those who want to embody the energy and warmth of the sun.

In essence, Byzantine captures the timeless elegance of its predecessor while introducing a contemporary, sun-kissed twist. It is a celebration of light and life, crafted for women who desire a fragrance that is both sophisticated and uplifting. Through its intricate blend of floral and oriental notes, Byzantine remains a testament to the artistry of Alberto Morillas and the enduring legacy of Rochas in the world of perfumery.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Unfortunately, Byzantine by Rochas was discontinued around 2002-2003. Despite its sophisticated composition and the radiant reinterpretation of the original Byzance, this light floral oriental fragrance ultimately saw its production come to an end. Its unique blend of fresh top notes, intricate floral heart, and warm, sensual base failed to secure a lasting place in the competitive perfume market of the early 2000s. The discontinuation of Byzantine marked the end of an era for a scent that sought to blend the timeless allure of its predecessor with a contemporary, sunlit vibrance, leaving behind a legacy cherished by those who had the opportunity to experience its fleeting brilliance.

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