La Superba - Rovo Nero Acqua di Genova 2008

There are phases in the test life of a perfume because you think you can't discover anything new. Where one sample resembles the other, everything seems to have already been there, because you think you're running in a hamster wheel, turning in circles.
I have been there, put aside my sample box for quite a while, scented myself with old familiar things and dedicated myself to other things.
At that time, I also started my bottling stock and did not even realize what a revelation Rovo Nero is - until now, as my bottling is nearing its end.

I came across the Acqua di Genova brand because of its classic colognes, which are said to have been created as early as the middle of the 19th century, but in the end I was not convinced by them.
The handmade bottle, however, had done it to me, and that's why I had brought other fragrances of the brand under my nose - among them this one.

Rovo Nero can probably be described as a chypre in terms of its structure, but for me it goes far beyond that.
In my opinion, the classical perfumery is married here with independent experiments.

The start is initially citric with a distinct orange coloration. Shortly afterwards, autumnal spice is added, I think I can hear an enigmatic Immortelle and some pepper. On top of this there is a soapy veil which is so typical for tarragon and which can be found in a similar form in many chypre classics. In this fine soapiness something carnation-like is added, under it rosy blackness is mixed Soon the fragrance draws pictures of a damp forest floor with rotting leaves on mushrooms and half rotten, mossy wood. However, this impression is preserved from the pure impression of nature by a brightening, perfumed powderiness and a fine sweetness.
All in all, the whole fragrance is masterfully blended and appears extremely high quality.

Rovo Nero is certainly not a perfume that is immediately obvious, it may even be a somewhat demanding perfume, but it is precisely this that makes it stand out from the crowd.
Especially now in autumn it was a pleasure to carry him to extensive walks.

Maybe I will get one of these beautiful Genova bottles in my house after all.