by Rook Perfumes
Rook by Rook is a deeply atmospheric and smoky fragrance with a powerful opening that quickly evolves into a complex, resinous, and aromatic composition. It begins with a dense, incense-laden smoke and spicy wood notes—cardamom, ginger, and frankincense—followed by a velvety, warm oud and tobacco that gives it a dark, leather-like depth. Over time, the fragrance softens into a more transparent, woody-ambery base laced with subtle floral hints from ylang-ylang and violet, creating a gender-neutral scent with a distinct animalic warmth. The sillage is moderate, the longevity is long, and it performs best in cold weather—especially during autumn and winter night wear. Its character is reminiscent of a Macbeth-inspired twilight scene, heavy with smoke, incense, and raw emotion, yet it avoids becoming overwhelming thanks to the integration of soft, sweet-gingered and floral breaks. While some find it initially harsh or even unpleasant due to its intense smoke and animalic edges, most agree it mellows into something deeply captivating and layered.