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Oudh Ma’al Wardh by Al Haramain
Literally an eye opener for those who are not accustomed to the pungent odour of some of the wonderful concentrated perfumed oudh oils from the Arabian perfume houses. A mellow and slightly nutty softness will eventually emerge, one that will seem quite warming and could have you surreptitiously burying your nose into your wrist from time to time to see if the metamorphosis is really true. The change that I refer to is immense and absolute. From the shock of a squall to one of stillness and calm, from being aghast to being pleasantly soothing.

Initially the scent seems to all but be a physically attack upon the nose while rushing to rip the throat away, one might not know whether to be brave and stay the course or rush to scrub this acrid fetor away, as none of the promised floral notes seem to make an appearance. This fragrance is definitely one to apply at least ninety minutes before entering the commuting confines of your local metro or any other travel system at rush hour. Spray a little too much and you might gag and keep all others at bay, but then wait … wait. Then wait some more and candyfloss lightness emerges from the white hot, barbed wire assault. A contradicting creamy essence has evolved and one that might remain for the rest of your day. This is an outstanding and incomparable Oudh blend, a mukhallat like no other; an acquired appreciation that could need a revisit or two before a definitive conclusion is determined.

Many thanks to Apicius for the sample.

For a soft iris amber aroma with just a hint of patchouli and myrrhe, the opening experience of Guerlain's Myrrhe & Délires will not disappoint. Initially the pepper is quite striking, yet never sharp nor tangy with the accompanying citrus, so cannot become intrusive to those seeking the balmy softness that comforting myrrhe brings. Both pepper and citrus perceptions seem to quickly melt away leaving a trace of faint florals and frankincense entwined with the light liquorice that emanates and remains close to the skin.

An elysian scent that one might place upon a soft scarf when keeping snug during the cooler days of late autumn or one could layer, complementing any of one's favorite notes already found within Myrrhe & Délires. This muted and gentle perfume should not disappoint those who prefer a misting and scented veil. Thank you Apicius, this is without exception, quite sublime.

Dahn Al Oudh Al Shams Special Edition by Ajmal.
A truly awesome and extreme oud of which only a mere touch is required in order to savour this potent perfume. This one is not for the faint hearted; so if you are a novice to oud or perhaps prefer the very soft, light and sweetened offerings that have flushed through more western discernment in recent years ... do be warned.

Literally striking - going straight to the centre of one's head, searching out the tumaceous parts of the brain that have lain dormant, this can be deemed quite exquisite. Depending on preferences and perceptions along with personal chemistry, some may find this Special Edition quite vellicating and sharp - giving a sensation of being dragged by the nose through an unbridled olfactory, roller-coaster ride. Yet to others this deep and rich aroma could be instant bliss. If you are feeling adventurous and wish to temper this wonderful redolence, anything is possible. Do add a touch of this heady scent to your favorite Taif Rose, Amber, Sandalwood or Incense - even a misting of vanilla, patchouli or honey. Find what suits you. Layer, explore and make it your own.

I returned to this scent that was a former favorite late last night after a long sabbatical to find, as before, the quickly enveloping fresh and deodorising citrusy fragrance of the bergamot and mandarin orange. Perfect for warmer days that are not too hot. However, this time I noticed the strong and heady smell of spices - cardamon and pepper - that quickly kicked in, lending a unisex and youthful air while still being quite light. The drydown is reminiscent of soft white musk and blond woods and while no longer a firm favorite due to the spicey trace smell, it is a fine and still unusual scent that is best first tried rather than be the subject of a blind buy and great for daytime use.

The image that was initially conjured up via great marketing and superb packaging could have easily lead to a great disappointment due to the lack of depth and darkness hoped for, but this has grown on me after numerous wears. However, it is extremely light just as other reviewers have mentioned in the past and unfortunately with mediocre longevity. The light and fresh florals have a mere hint of an oud-like scent and little incense, resulting in a soft fragrance that remain close to the skin. Nevertheless, it has become a favorite this year and one that I will consider buying again.