TOBBA
ROSE ON THE SHORE
2021
pink pepper
geranium
rose de mai
lychee leaf
castoreum
vetiver
patchouli
‘A bed of exquisite roses grew out of narrow gaps between weather-beaten rocks that sit beside the majestic Atlantic Ocean. In face of raging wind and towering waves, the fearless flowers still keep their chins up. Piquant starting notes of pink pepper and Egyptian geranium set a cool tone while the heart is graced with an engrossing juxtaposition between the intense Rose de Mai, refreshing lychee leaves and warm castoreum to convey its rich emotions and a contrasting nonchalance. An impeccable mix of patchouli and vetiver then rounds off with soothing woody aromas. A sui generis rose-scented Eau de Parfum, standing out of the crowd with its unique characteristics and timelessness.’ – Tobba
I had already reviewed the Tobba line prior to picking this bottles when presented the opportunity; as this is my favorite of the Tobba line-up as of 2024.
Rose On The Shore is an oily, at times piercing, green and slightly earthy take on rose. From looking at the notes, this one may be surprising acidic/citrussy to you. A high level of citronellol I assume, with rose, geranium and lychee creating a sharp and vibrant floral. It feels clear, wet and it projects loudly. A mix of pink, red and green hues comes to the forefront for me upon smelling this, but with a neon yellow ring around it.
Especially when smelling the skin more up close, it’s green and more earthy. Patchouli and a hint of crushed grass. Reminiscent of fresh cut flowers, but constantly with that strong lemon-like acidity on the side.
It feels mature. The lychee doesn’t add a particularly fruity tinge to the composition at all in my opinion (Rose On The Shore bears no resemblance to Oud Satin Mood for example). Rather, this is close to Frederic Malle’s Rose Tonnerre (f.k.a. Une Rose), which has become one of my absolute favorites in the recent year. Rose On The Shore is greener and more acidic, perhaps imagine a hint of Amouage Epic Woman/56 mixed in. Making for something that I could wear in any situation or weather condition.
I said this was a potential wishlist fragrance in my original review and it will have a fixed place in the collection now. If you’re looking for an invigorating and strong performing green rose fragrance to try, put Tobba on your radar.
