There are any number of iconic perfumes, ones produced by major luxury labels and who have dominated the fragrance markets, such as Chanel’s No.5 and Dior’s J’Adior. However, for the aromatically inclined enthusiast who are searching for new olfactory experiences, there’s a small echelon of high-end boutique perfume houses whose scents, though hard to find, equally match their more famed counterparts. Below, we highlight several boutique perfume houses to try the next time you’re seeking out a new fragrance.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian

French perfume house Maison Francis Kurkdjian is lauded for producing some of the most coveted scents known to fragrance connoisseurs. This award-winning boutique is a much sought-after brand, respected for its creations of emotive scents such as a sensual woody, amber fragrance created for the bold and beautiful woman. 

Must Try: Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum (HK$2,050)

Main Accords: Floral, woody and amber

Serge Lutens

Created by multi-talented French artist and fashion designer, Serge Lutens, his eponymous perfume label draws on his experience in the realm of beauty, fashion and style to produce its scents. So coveted are the fruits of his labour that many of his perfumes have garnered a cult following.

Must Try: Ambre Sultan eau de parfum (HK$1,847)

Main Accords: Spicy, warm and sensual

Carthusia

An Italian perfume house rooted in traditional methods of making perfumes, Carthusia stands as a tribute to perfumiers of yore. Creating a range of scents with distinctive notes of basil, rosemary and other fragrant herbs, this old perfumery builds on centuries-old knowledge of perfume making – all crafted by hand – and uses only genuine products of premium quality to create its unique scents.

Must Try: Fiori Di Capri 100ml (HK$1,582)

Main Accords: Woody and  floral

House of Sillage

A true display of haute perfumery, this American boutique decorates its fragrances with beautifully and ornately-designed bottles that truly embodies luxury. The aromas within are equally heavenly, and the perfumery has 42 limited-edition fragrances that were designed to be collectible works of art.

Must try: Cherry Garden (HK$1,210)

Main Accords: Nutty, fruity and floral

DS & Durga

New York-based niche perfume house DS & Durga was founded in 2007 by musician, David Seth Moltz and architect, Kavi Ahuja, who happen to also be a husband and wife duo. Their fragrance base comprises a combinations of flowers, herbs and spices that the founders have collected from across the globe. With each being painstakingly handmade, the maison’s fragrances are targeted at both men and women.

Must Try: Crystal Pistil 50ml (HK$1,337)

Main Accords: Floral with hints of woody and aquatic