Pierre de Velay No. 23, from Roja Dove was released in 2019. The perfumer behind this creation is Roja Dove. It has the top notes of Aldehydes, Bergamot, and Mandarin Orange, middle notes of Jasmine, Orange Blossom, Rose, Violet, and Ylang-Ylang, and base notes of Ambergris, Benzoin, Cedarwood, Civet, Cloves, Labdanum, Leather, Musk, Oakmoss, Sandalwood, Tobacco, Tonka Bean, Vanilla, and Vetiver.
Pierre de Velay No. 23 is an incredibly underrated release from the line and such a fantastic recreation of an iconic scent profile. The top is comprised of intensely soapy and powdery aldehydes alongside soft citrus which seems comfortingly familiar. In the heart, a heavy dose of thick ylang and powdery violet can be found mingling with the aldehydes beautifully, before developing into a base of amber, animalic leather and civet, woods, oakmoss, clove and ambergris. An incredibly deep and complex base bursting with character which is executed perfectly. Overall I believe this is Roja’s take on the Chanel No. 5 scent profile. The opening is very similar to this but as the scent develops you soon realise the base is very different to No. 5 and adds such intense distinction from the array of added notes. I think this is a fantastic creation, building on a cultural classic and paying homage to one of the most famous fragrances of all time.