Varanasi vs Ambre Sultan

Varanasi is a divisive, intensely complex fragrance that celebrates animalic and unusual notes in service of its artistic vision. While appreciated by experienced collectors who recognize the birch tar and leather nuances, most find it uncomfortably harsh and burning rubber-like on skin, making it a true acquired taste rather than a mainstream offering.

Ambre Sultan is a divisive fragrance with a bold, spicy amber character that appeals to niche fragrance enthusiasts seeking non-vanilla options. However, its prominent spice accords and savory qualities are polarizing, with some finding them poorly blended or unpleasant, and it often loses out in direct comparisons to alternatives like L'Air du Desert Marocain.