Our take
What does Oud smell like?
Réminiscence, the house from the south of France best known for its patchouli, released its Oud in early 2013. Some retailers date it to 2012. The perfumer has not been named. The opening is fresher than you'd guess, with bergamot, Guatemalan cardamom and pink pepper. Cardamom leads the way with its camphor and lemon facets. The heart warms things up. Saffron brings a dry leathery note and Turkish rose rounds it off, with a little jasmine in support. The base is the busiest part of the pyramid. Oud sits with sandalwood and cedar, then smoky guaiac and resinous labdanum join in. Tonka bean adds a touch of sweetness at the end. This is nowhere near the animalic, medicinal ouds. It stays clean and well mannered throughout. Compared with Tom Ford's Oud Wood, it is spicier and rosier. It is also less creamy. A good starting point for anyone new to the note.
When to wear it
An evening scent for autumn and winter. One or two sprays are enough, and it lasts for hours on skin.
It belongs to the Oriental / Amber, Spicy family. Oud is one of 20 creations by Reminiscence in our encyclopedia.
