As always with Nippon Kodo, the quality of their incense is always fantastic, it burns well and is easy to dispose of. I've never smelled anything like Cafe Time Incense. I don't know what a lotus is supposed to smell like, but it's my absolute favorite I've ever tried from this company. It makes any place you burn it feel like a sacred space. After the incense has been burned, there is a lovely smoky scent that lingers for hours. The red wine really does smell like smoky red wine! This would make a very special gift for any incense connoisseur.