Oud: The Liquid Gold of Middle Eastern Perfumery
Delve into the rich history and cultural significance of oud, the most precious ingredient in luxury perfumery.
The Royal Heritage of Oud
Oud, also known as agarwood, has been treasured for over 3,000 years. This "liquid gold" of perfumery comes from the Aquilaria tree and is considered one of the most valuable raw materials in the fragrance world.
The Making of Oud
When the Aquilaria tree becomes infected with a specific type of mold, it produces a dark, resinous heartwood as a defense mechanism. This infected wood is what we know as oud.
Different Types of Oud
- Cambodian Oud: Sweet and complex with honey-like notes
- Indian Oud: Deep, animalic, and medicinal
- Arabian Oud: Smoky and intense with leather undertones
How to Appreciate Oud
For beginners, start with oud blends rather than pure oud oil. The scent evolves dramatically over time, so patience is key to appreciating its full complexity.
Oud in Modern Perfumery
Contemporary perfumers are creating more accessible oud compositions by blending it with rose, saffron, and other complementary ingredients, making this ancient treasure appealing to modern sensibilities.