What Is DUA Fondré Noir a Dupe Of?

DUA Fondré Noir is a clone of Tom Ford Champaca Absolute. That’s the original behind this pairing and the bottle to compare it with if you’re deciding which version of the scent to try.

What kind of scent is it going for?

Champaca, orchid and jasmine make this a floral comparison with plenty around it. DUA also lists cognac, vanilla, amber and marron glace. We’d follow the flowers after the opening settles, then check how much warmth and sweetness those other notes bring to the mix.

How do the notes compare?

DUA Fondré Noir lists French Cognac, Sicilian Bergamot, Dyer’s Greenweed, Champaca, Orchid, Violet, Jasmine and Vanilla Bourbon. Tom Ford Champaca Absolute lists Cognac, Dyer’s Greenweed, Bergamot, Champaca, Orchid, Jasmine, Violet and Marron glace.

Both lists include Dyer’s Greenweed, Champaca, Orchid, Violet and Jasmine, giving you a few clear points to follow in a sample. For DUA Fondré Noir, also look for French Cognac, Sicilian Bergamot, Vanilla Bourbon and Dark Amber. The original’s list also includes Cognac, Bergamot, Vanilla and Amber.

What would we look for in a sample?

Try a similar amount of each on separate wrists and give them some time. Come back to both after the first burst has settled, then check them again later. We’d focus on the notes that made you interested in the pairing in the first place.

Which one would we buy?

We’d start with DUA Fondré Noir if you want DUA’s interpretation of this scent. If the original’s exact balance is what you love, Tom Ford Champaca Absolute is the reference to try. Compare the available bottle sizes, shipping cost and return terms before choosing. A sample or smaller bottle can be a good first purchase, especially when one particular note is the reason you’re interested. Current retailer options are shown above. Use the price for the size you actually plan to order, and check the delivery estimate if you need the fragrance for a particular date.