Czech & Speake's No.88 would not have been out of place residing on Sweeny Todd's Barbershop vanity; it embodies a sense of late Victorian England with qualities are gothic, dark and predatory. Quite possibly the ultimate masculine rose, No. 88 is steeped with dark florals over a simmering heart of cassis: a note reminiscent of fragrant cinnamon; the overall effect being one of fragrant incense sticks and pink musk lollies. It rests over a warm foundation of sandalwood and vetiver, lending a damp earthiness upon which the composition is held aloft. It evokes an image of dozens of velvet red roses resting on a freshly-turned grave.
Ive always adored the Cologne version since I first encountered it in the mid-late 2000's, but the EDP has amplified all the qualities I adore. A head-turning compliment-catcher, I've always enjoyed reactions from those around me; we seem unanimous in regarding it as something unique and singular. As a scent which is both charming and dapper but with a renegade 'Peaky Blinders' leaning, I'm certain over time it will continue to garner a greater following of men (and ladies) who recognise and adore it's non-conforming 'otherness'