This is one of Lutens lighter fare in terms of his oriental game. I love this scent usually in transitional weather, or as a daily office scent in the fall or winter. It is sweet enough to like but rich and dark enough (with almost a fougère like charactertic) to keep it buttoned up and proper. I assume this is the English restraint Sheldrake was going for. But let's not detract from the beauty itself; candied ginger, brightened by bergamot, and extended with warm spices like cinnamon. The ginger is prominent and the other notes play a balanced supporting role, which is a hard feat with such a fickle note. Later attenuate the dusty cocoa and patchouli. This phase persists for a couple more hours and is quite linear, but not oppressively so. It's base becomes apparent hours into the drydown, and acts an olfactory pillow as the ginger and woody notes fade away, and you are left with a honeyed, golden amber that isn't overbearing. Very nice, a delicate touch from this house.

Notes: Bergamot, candied ginger, honey, patchouli, pepper, and dark cocoa

Rating: 3.5/5