Notoriously rich, woody and lavish, oud is traditionally coined ‘black gold’ in the Middle East. And while its brooding musky quality is instantly recognisable, the most interesting and exciting oud scents right now are challenging expectations.
In Hermès Oud Alezan, delicate, dewy rose contrasts with heady oud for a unique, unisex fragrance. Maison Francis Kurkjian’s Oud Satin Mood, one of the most-talked-about ouds out there, is a striking blend of rose, violet, vanilla amber and rich oud wood that commands attention. Legendary make-up artist Charlotte Tilbury has entered the scent space with six fragrances powered by emotion-boosting molecules, including More Sex – a seductive mix of spicy black pepper, velvety musk and rich leather.