Our take
What does Oud Al Sahraa smell like?
Berdoues, a Toulouse house founded in 1902, launched Oud Al Sahraa around 2015 in its Grands Crus collection. The name means 'oud of the desert'. Perfumer Christian Vermorel has called oud resin the holy grail of perfumers. First sold as a cologne, it now comes as a 15% eau de parfum. The formula rests on three materials. Italian mandarin opens with a soft glow and little real sourness. Namibian myrrh follows, resinous and slightly bitter. Malaysian oud finally arrives, woody and faintly animal. It stays far from the heavy Middle Eastern style. The Fragrant Journey blog found it radiant and light enough for hot climates. Next to Tom Ford's Oud Wood, Oud Al Sahraa smells more resinous and less creamy. It suits anyone who wants to try oud without drowning in it.
When to wear it
An easy oud to wear from spring through winter, in the evening or at the weekend. Two sprays give a clear trail without overdoing it.
It belongs to the Oriental / Amber, Woody family. Oud Al Sahraa is one of 4 creations by Berdoues in our encyclopedia.
