Our take
What does Versace pour Homme Oud Noir smell like?
Oud Noir appeared in 2013, when Versace spun off its 2008 pour Homme right in the middle of the fashion houses' oud wave. The perfumer was never named. It opens with bitter orange, neroli and black pepper. The citrus is brief but lets some air in before everything darkens. Cardamom and saffron then build a warm, dry heart. Olibanum adds a faint whiff of church smoke. The base sets down oud, patchouli and a leather accord. The oud is polished here and almost medicinal at times, with none of the animal tone of Middle Eastern styles. Think black leather jacket rather than burning wood. Next to Tom Ford's Oud Wood it is spicier and more leathery, and less creamy. It projects well for the first hour, then settles close to the skin.
When to wear it
An evening oud for autumn and winter, best kept away from the office in summer. Two sprays are plenty since the saffron spreads quickly.
It belongs to the Oriental / Amber, Woody family. Versace pour Homme Oud Noir is one of 14 creations by Versace in our encyclopedia.
