180 Ans de Créations 1828-2008

The Verdict

Guerlain 180 Ans de Creations 1828-2008 is perhaps the most exclusive way to experience the legendary Guerlinade, the signature accord that has defined the house of Guerlain across nearly two centuries of perfumery. Created by Jean-Paul Guerlain himself and distributed exclusively to friends and loyal customers of the maison in December 2008, this commemorative fragrance was never sold commercially. It stands as a love letter to the house's creative legacy.

The community consensus, though based on a small number of reviewers due to the fragrance's extreme rarity, is overwhelmingly positive. Those fortunate enough to experience it describe a composition that places the Guerlinade front and center from first spray to final dry-down, resulting in an oriental that is at once comforting, elegant, and unmistakably Guerlain.

What It Smells Like

From the first application, 180 Ans reveals the Guerlinade in its purest form. The opening presents a gourmand warmth that is indulgent but never heavy, with bergamot and grapefruit providing citrus brightness against a backdrop of pink pepper spice. The impression is rich but not edible, with vanilla and tonka bean creating an almond-like heliotrope quality that feels luxurious.

The heart brings jasmine and orange blossom into a sugary white floral arrangement with smooth, boozy tonka undertones. The base is defined by an ambery tonka-vanilla accord that supplies the backbone, with white musks growing in importance over time. Reviewers note that on application one experiences Guerlinade with a strong dose of tonka, almond, and a hint of citrus underneath, creating an intricacy that reveals itself differently when worn versus smelled from a strip.

When to Wear It

This is a fragrance that works beautifully in cooler weather, its oriental warmth and tonka-vanilla richness perfectly suited to autumn and winter evenings. However, its balanced character and moderate sillage also make it surprisingly appropriate for office wear, where one reviewer reported receiving several compliments and finding it easy to wear throughout the day.

The elevated nature of the composition suits formal occasions and special celebrations, particularly those where its story and heritage can be appreciated by fellow fragrance enthusiasts.

Longevity & Projection

180 Ans excels in longevity, offering an excellent twelve hours of wear from just a few sprays. Projection is very good, particularly in the early hours, though the fragrance settles into a moderate sillage that keeps it close enough for intimate appreciation. This combination of exceptional staying power with refined projection makes it an ideal all-day companion.

The Community Says

The fragrance community holds 180 Ans in high regard, with ratings clustering around 9 out of 10 on the few platforms where it appears. Reviewers on Basenotes and PerfumeMaster praise its ability to represent the Guerlinade in its most concentrated form. Community members note that it comes into its own when worn on skin, where the intricacy gives way to a wonderful overall aura surrounding the wearer. The rarity and non-commercial nature of the fragrance only add to its mystique among collectors.

Who Should Buy This

This fragrance is destined for Guerlain devotees who have explored the house's extensive catalog and want to experience the Guerlinade in its most distilled expression. Collectors who value rarity and provenance above all else will find 180 Ans irresistible. It is also a meaningful choice for anyone who considers Guerlain to be the pinnacle of French perfumery and wants to own a piece of its 180-year history.

The Bottom Line

Guerlain 180 Ans de Creations is a rare and remarkable tribute to one of perfumery's most storied houses, offering the Guerlinade accord in its purest, most concentrated form. Its exceptional longevity, balanced oriental warmth, and profound heritage make it a treasure for those fortunate enough to encounter it, even as its extreme scarcity ensures it remains a fragrance more discussed than worn.