Moscow Perfume Museum

The collection of the Moscow Perfume Museum contains the best antique and vintage perfumes from legendary perfume houses. The exposition tells the history of the development of perfumery. Museum visitors can get acquainted with the basic rules of perfumery and learn the history of the creation of famous perfumes from the past.

History of the museum

The museum was created on the initiative of patron Timur Saratov. This idea came to him after studying perfume museums operating in Europe. The collection is based on vintage and antique perfumes, which were kept in the family of Timur Saratov. The private collection determined the further development of the idea: a demonstration of vintage fragrances.

The museum opened its doors to visitors in 2013. The first exposition featured 1,500 fragrances. The collection at that time consisted of 60,000 exhibits. Patrons from all over the world took part in the formation of the permanent collection.

In 2014, the museum changed its format in favor of interactivity. Tours-tastings began to be held for visitors, where you can take genuine bottles in your hands and inhale the aromas. Later, a perfume shop was opened on the basis of the museum. Bottles that do not represent a museum value get on sale.

Perfume tasting

On a sightseeing day, the museum accepts up to 80 guests. Tastings are held for organized groups of up to 10 people. The event lasts 1 hour. During this time, visitors get acquainted with 25 of the best antique and vintage perfumes.

During the tour, visitors are treated to coffee or mineral water. Drinking liquids helps to clear the olfactory receptors, so the sensations of inhaling aromas do not mix. Vintage perfumes have a specific composition, so about 20% of visitors perceive aromas as harsh and unpleasant.

Original fragrances are offered for review, not modern copies. All bottles offered for tasting have at least 18 duplicates in storage. Bottles with a smaller number of copies can be viewed through the glass of the display case.

Interesting facts

Spirits are being rotated in the museum. The bottle is on tasting no more than 3 weeks. After the expiration date, the bottle is sent to the museum storage, and one of its duplicates is brought to the exhibition hall.

Optimal temperature is maintained in the storage: +15-18°C. Infrared light helps to preserve aromas. The bottle from the showroom is stored for at least 1 year before being taken back for tasting.

Twice a year, visitors can see the fountain filled with vintage perfumes. This event is held in the spring of the International Museum Day and in the fall on the Day of the City of Moscow.

Location

The Moscow Perfume Museum is located at Arbat, 36/2.

Operating mode

Now the museum is closed, tickets for excursions are not sold.