The fruity aroma of cherry is a versatile one; I find it can be fun, sweet and oh-so girly, or on the flip side, it can be rich, decadent and ever-so seductive.
There are two stand-out releases in the realm of cherry-heavy perfumes, namely Yves Saint Laurent’s Black Opium Over Red and Tom Ford’s Lost Cherry.
While Black Opium Over Red adds an extravagant coffee and patchouli twist to cherry, Lost Cherry, with its bitter edge, showcases Tom Ford’s knack for crafting something bold and daring.
During one of my perfume visits, I popped into the Selfridges department store in London to try these extravagant cherry fragrances for myself.
Black Opium Over Red vs Lost Cherry
Mouthwatering cherry with almonds or perhaps some rich coffee? Here is my take on the Black Opium Over Red vs Lost Cherry debate.
1. YSL Black Opium Eau de Parfum Over Red
Review
Launched in 2024, Black Opium Over Red is a captivating cherry scent and a worthy addition to the Black Opium line by Yves Saint Laurent.
This fragrance opens with a burst of cherry accord and green mandarin, followed by hints of white flowers.
As this cherry-heavy fragrance dries on the skin, rich coffee and earthy patchouli deepen the vanilla-heavy base.
Top Notes:
Cherry Accord, Green Mandarin
Mid Notes:
Jasmine, Orange Blossom, Black Tea
Base Notes:
Coffee, Vanilla, Patchouli
Seasons & Longevity
For me, Black Opium Over Red shines brightest in the cooler months of autumn, winter and spring. It’s perfect for evening wear, lasting 5+ hours.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Bold, long-lasting, great for evenings |
| Cons | It may be too intense for daytime wear |
2. Tom Ford Lost Cherry Eau de Parfum
Review
Lost Cherry by Tom Ford, on the other hand, offers a more indulgent and complex bitter-sweet TF take on cherry.
A rich opening of black cherry, cherry liqueur, and bitter almond leads to a heart of tart cherry syrup with floral hints.
To me, tonka bean dominates the base with vanilla aromas, with sedate woody hints hovering in the background.
Top Notes:
Black Cherry, Cherry Liqueur, Bitter Almond
Mid Notes:
Griotte Syrup, Turkish Rose, Jasmine Sambac
Base Notes:
Peru Balsam, Tonka Bean, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Cedar
Seasons & Longevity
Lost Cherry can be worn year-round, adding sophistication to any occasion, maybe a fancy lunch or evening at the theatre. However, after 4 hours, it will need a top-up.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Luxurious, versatile, smells expensive |
| Cons | Pricey, may not be for those who dislike sweet scents |
Ingrid’s Top Pick
YSL Black Opium Over Red
Black Opium Over Red is my top pick, as the subtle coffee note and whisper of patchouli add a touch of mystery to the cherry and vanilla sweetness.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Black Opium Over Red | TF Lost Cherry |
|---|---|---|
| 3 Main Notes | Cherry, Coffee, Vanilla | Cherry, Bitter Almond, Vanilla |
| Longevity | 5+ hours | 4+ hours |
| Seasons | Fall, Winter, Spring | Any Season |
| Best For | Dressy evening events such as a fancy meal, theatre trip, high-end bar | Day and night, any occasion from casual to elegant |
| Price for 100ml | £130 / $165 | £380 / $425 |
Conclusion
Black Opium Over Red brings a playful, seductive twist with its combination of cherry, coffee, and vanilla, making it perfect for cooler evenings.
Lost Cherry, on the other hand, offers a more complex and luxurious experience with its rich blend of cherry liqueur, Turkish rose, and warm woody notes, suitable for both day and night throughout the year.
If you enjoy a bolder, more seductive scent, Black Opium Over Red would be my recommendation, yet for a versatile, elegant cherry scent, Lost Cherry is sure to impress.
Also Read: Cherry-Bombs: 3 Tom Ford Cherry Fragrances You Can’t Miss.
