2000 et Une Rose

The Verdict

Lancome released 2000 et Une Rose as a limited edition in 1999 to celebrate the arrival of the new millennium, entrusting the composition to perfumer Christine Nagel. It was later reissued as part of La Collection under the name Mille et Une Roses with a redesigned bottle, though the fragrance itself remained the same. Both versions have since been discontinued, and the passionate devotion this rose has inspired among its fans continues to grow with each passing year.

Now Smell This called it "a beautiful fragrance, and one of my favorite roses," praising its middle-ground approach that avoids both the dewy freshness and aggressive boldness of competing rose compositions. Multiple reviewers across Fragrantica and MakeupAlley have described it as the most gorgeous rose perfume they have ever encountered. For a rose fragrance released at the turn of the millennium, it has aged remarkably well in both reputation and relevance.

What It Smells Like

The opening presents white pepper and mandarin orange in a subtly spiced, citrus-kissed introduction that immediately signals sophistication. The pepper provides a gentle prickle of warmth rather than heat, while the mandarin adds brightness without veering into fresh territory.

The heart is where the magic lies. The composition celebrates the rose through three distinct varieties -- Bulgarian rose, tea rose, and wild rose -- creating a multi-dimensional floral that is at once soft, round, and delicate. Reviewers describe it as a rose warmed by amber, with a slightly smoky quality that makes it mystic and unusual. There is nothing sharp or synthetic about this rose accord; it reads as natural and complete.

The base of musk, amber, and vanilla creates an enveloping warmth. Now Smell This noted a "drier, woodier base" with minimal vanilla presence, while Basenotes reviewers found the musk confers a modern edge that ensures it does not stray into old-lady territory. The drydown settles into a musky softness that clings close to the skin.

When to Wear It

This is a fragrance built for moments of quiet romance and refined elegance. Its soft projection makes it ideal for intimate settings -- romantic dinners, cultural events, and spring afternoon gatherings where its delicate character can be appreciated by those close enough to notice.

Spring and fall are its natural seasons, when moderate temperatures allow the rose and amber to bloom properly without being overwhelmed by heat or cold.

Longevity & Projection

Performance is the most frequently cited weakness of 2000 et Une Rose. Now Smell This described the lasting power as "perhaps a bit below average" for an eau de parfum concentration, suggesting reapplication may be necessary for extended wear. Basenotes reviewers echoed this concern, noting that longevity and sillage are somewhat under par for a fragrance at this price point. The sillage is close to the skin, rewarding the wearer and those in intimate proximity rather than filling a room. Expect moderate longevity of approximately four to six hours.

The Community Says

The fragrance community has consistently spoken about 2000 et Une Rose with deep affection. Fragrantica reviewers describe it as exquisitely beautiful and among the finest rose fragrances ever produced. Now Smell This praised its "modern, unfussy quality" that could appeal to rose skeptics while maintaining romantic sophistication. Basenotes reviewers appreciated the complexity and the way the musk note keeps the composition contemporary. The discontinuation has been met with genuine mourning across multiple fragrance forums, with collectors actively seeking remaining bottles. Fragrantica, Basenotes, Now Smell This, MakeupAlley, Parfumo, and Bois de Jasmin have all covered this fragrance extensively.

Who Should Buy This

This fragrance is destined for rose lovers who appreciate nuance over volume. If you value a multi-faceted rose composition with amber warmth, subtle spice, and a modern sensibility that avoids smelling matronly, hunting down a bottle of 2000 et Une Rose will be deeply rewarding. It suits women who wear fragrance as a personal pleasure rather than a public statement.

Those who need strong projection, beast-mode longevity, or easy availability should direct their attention elsewhere. This is a collector's rose, not a daily workhorse.

The Bottom Line

Lancome 2000 et Une Rose is a romantic, refined amber-rose composition that earned passionate devotion for its delicate multi-rose accord and modern elegance. Its modest performance is the price of admission for a fragrance of genuine beauty and subtlety. For those fortunate enough to find a bottle, it remains one of the most graceful rose fragrances of its era.