Pierre de Velay No. 4 is a boozy, aromatic amber with a lot of depth and character. Right from the initial spray you’re greeted by a punchy rum accord which is somehow smooth yet bitter at the same time. This is accompanied by ultra-realistic aromatics of bay leaf and sage which add a contrasting herbaceous quality to the rum. As it settles on the skin, warm cardamom and creamy sandalwood emerge as the rum powers on. A soft rose is present in the heart, which is only very subtle but adds that gentle softness to round everything out. The rum, bay leaf, cardamom and sage are the most prominent notes in the scent which all rest on the base of a classic amber accord - made up of benzoin, vanilla and labdanum. Combining a boozy accord with herbaceous notes is a brave and unconventional creative choice, however Roja has executed it perfectly here. This is such a unique and addicting scent profile with one of the best rum accords I’ve smelled - it also goes without saying that the quality of ingredients is impeccable as you’d expect. A true masterpiece.