Pierre de Velay No. 11

Boy are these fragrances expensive, even if they use natural ingredients. However, the few I’ve tried really do smell great and this one is no different. I particularly enjoy their old school vibe with modern sensibilities. Roja Dove seems to get some bad press on this site but, cost aside, there’s no denying that he makes some wonderful fragrances that have a real clarity and quality about them. it’s difficult to discern individual notes because of the quality blending, although I do pick up the patchouli, a note I’m not always that keen on. it’s predominantly a spicy woody aroma with a warm softness, a subtle tartness from the rhubarb, a hint of florals and a touch of powder. I don’t get a massive blast of citrus as is often the case in a Roja parfum but they do lend a touch of brightness, resting on an earthy base. Nothing groundbreaking or avant garde and it’s possibly not as interesting or complex as some others in this line, but, to me, it still smells wonderful nonetheless and although it’s not challenging, it’s still quite different to anything else I own. This isn’t something I’d usually go for but I’m very drawn to it for some reason, possibly because of its balance - it’s neither too formal or causal. It carries some depth without being overly thick or heavy, perhaps because of its earthy base without being dry. In fact it’s the perfect balance between sweet and dry, warm and cool that I like, it’s neither too much or too little either way. The website describes this fragrance as being one thing and yet another, and I think that describes this well. Roja parfums are often thick and seductive or bright and sparkling yet this is neither. I like that about it. It doesn’t seem quite as potent as some of the others I’ve tried in the line but it’s still quite noticeable with moderate/strong projection and great longevity. Unisex, leaning masculine. Because of the juxtaposition between woodsy, fresh, warm, spicy, sweet and dry, I see this as fairly versatile and a great all rounder. I just think it’s a beautifully executed fragrance that I’ll get much enjoyment from. This offers me exclusivity (it’s only available from Roja’s haute parfumerie in Harrods), quality, versatility and performance but you pay a massive premium for this and most, I would presume, will think it’s just not that special for the price - but, you like what you like and I like this, very much. I’ve now tried several in this line and all have left quite an impression on me - perfumery at its best.

PdV No.4, No.6 and No.11 are underrated masterpieces. This is one is stunning - a perfect balance of tart red fruit, with spiky green facets, dry woods, buttery soft irones and warm black pepper. The push and pull between round and soft against dry and hot is incredible. Not for those looking for a classic Roja signature of labdanum, real oakmoss and orris, but if you accept the synthetic versions of those in exchange for something tart, creamy and woody and thoroughly addictive, you won't be disappointed.

Very nicely done. Quiet luxury. Totally unisex.

AK95’s review embodies my thoughts better than I can actually manage; this is a transcendent, deceptive, multifaceted perfume. It is remarkable. Perfect for every setting, every weather, every event. One of Roja’s very best.

Unfortunately having to trim my collection down have half a bottle of this if anyone interested in