Strong, tenacious, spicy rose/floral. The rose, while not sweet, is fresher, more literal, and less "dark" than, e.g. in No. 88 or DC 1913. That said, it is nicely balanced with spices (ginger, cardamom,) fruity notes, patchouli, woods, and just a touch of suede/ambery leather. Some note civet, but I don't get that. A touch strong and androgynous (particularly at the outset when a strong aldehyde blast is present,) but easily wearable for formal in small doses.