I was able to try a pilot version of the fragrance, and it is mostly devoted to frankincense, with its camphor sharpness of incense oil at the start, a warm, resinous woody heart and a dry, reserved drydown. The refreshing sharpness is supported by black pepper at the start, the heart goes with some pine oil, and the sillage is extended by a soft and sweet vanillic touch. For greater similarity with the historical Eaux de Cologne Russes (which we have already discussed in another article), A La Russe Rouge perfume would need a stronger citrus start (incense oil has a light lemon-like facet that perfectly combines with any citrus) and the accented soft, cozy, ambery accord in the basenotes that makes Eau de Cologne Russe so distinctive from its French and Italian relatives. However, now in its frankincense glory, it fits into the trendy niche fragrance category as well—selective brands adore making incense-centered fragrances because of its sacred religious status, its prominence in virtually all cultures and its bohemian roots. Not to mention that frankincense and the mysterious Russian soul are inextricably linked to the Western world.