This is probably a mere coincidence, but maybe worth mentioning just the same.
Le Grice (Rose Growing Complete, 1976) Chapter XVII - Perfume in Roses
"...  it is believed that Theobault IV brought back from Damascus to Grasse a type of Rose de Provins with a reddish purple flower. There are two varieties, one with many thorns and one with few. The first is more suited to very dry areas without irrigation. It is more vigorous, with smaller flowers, although these are highly perfumed."