Baptême du Feu by Serge Lutens | Fragrance Fragrance
What does Baptême du Feu smell like?
Baptême du Feu is a fragrance of stark contrasts, capturing the atmosphere of a traditional European fairground where the sweetness of treats meets something much more metallic and sharp. At its heart...
The community is deeply divided over the scent's progression: many praise the "stunning" juicy mandarin and gingerbread opening but find the scratchy, metallic drydown to be polarizing or difficult to wear long-term.
Performance is widely considered reliable, with a consensus that the fragrance offers good longevity (lasting over 6 hours) and a moderate scent trail that is noticeable without being overwhelming.
It is frequently compared to other unconventional Serge Lutens creations; while it shares the "clean spice" DNA of Five O’Clock au Gingembre, it is noted for being more successful at capturing a "churchy" incense vibe than competing scents like Montale's Full Incense.
Most users recommend this as a strictly cool-weather fragrance, citing its dense, smoky woodiness as a perfect match for fall and winter evenings or festive leisure activities.
Perspective on value is tied to its eccentricity—collectors appreciate its "weird but wearable" nature and original composition, though some feel the fragrance loses its character once the top notes evaporate.
