Personally, for me a fragrance is much more than a mere bottle filled with scented liquid, it is a cleverly constructed plethora of notes brought together to tell a certain story. When searching for a new fragrance I look for a scent that essentially represents an extension of myself. Therefore the packaging, notes and ingredients have to immediately resonate with my personality.
From the first note, I long to be transported into the world of the perfumer, to unravel the inspiration behind the creation and to understand the scent story which they have so skilfully formulated. I’ve always gravitated towards the more opulent fragrance houses, their quality ingredients exude a certain refinement that when worn, enhance my mood and provide an instant bolster to my day. Roja Parfums by renowned British perfumer Roja Dove is a luxury fragrance house that encompasses the elegance and sophistication that I admire.
Ever since my first visit to the Middle East I have had a slight infatuation for Oud, which is very popular in that area of the world. Its presence was all around, from the waft of an emirate passing, to smoky filled rooms laced with bakhoor. Oud is one of the most expensive and renowned ingredients in the world that is derived from the wood of the Agar Tree. For me, it’s dark and rich combination is captivating and I adore it in all its facets, for the home or personal fragrance.
I recently discovered a fragrance from the Roja Parfums Aoud selection that not only encapsulates this stunning ingredient but also includes another favourite note of mine, musk. Musk Aoud (Arabic pronunciation of Oud) is a chypre fragrance that emanates the finesse and luxury that this fragrance house is known for. The Aoud range launched in 2011 in Harrods was what really established this brand, it was so successful that it sold out in a mere ten days.
From the first spray, the top notes of Lemon and Bergamot soon evaporate to reveal an outstanding floral heart of Rose de Mai, Jasmine de Grasse and Ylang Ylang. The true stars of the show, however, are definitely the ravishing base notes. Musk and Ambrette (seed of Hibiscus) take precedence to provide a sensual and warming aura.
The addition of Precious wood notes along with Sandalwood, Patchouli and Oakmoss emits an irresistibly velvety and woody composition. Although Aoud isn’t the prominent ingredient here, it is still evident in the dry down and it mingles perfectly with the smokey smooth notes of the Leather and Labdanum. The introduction of Tonka Bean provides a slight sweetness to the scent, releasing creamy notes of almonds and vanilla.
Musk Aoud seduced me from the minute I set eyes on it and it continued to do so as it emanated from the skin. Its amalgamation of enticing ingredients come together beautifully to create an almost aphrodisiacal concoction. As with most of Roja Dove’s creations, Musk Aoud is a true work of art and it is has a well-deserved place in Roja Dove’s ever-growing range of the finest fragrances.
Fragrance Notes:
Top – Lemon, Bergamot
Heart – Rose de Mai, Jasmin de Grasse, Ylang Ylang
Base – Nutmeg, Patchouli, Oakmoss, Precious Wood Notes, Sandalwood, Aoud, Vanilla, Tonka Bean, Birch, Labdanum, Leather, Ambrette, Musk
Presentation 5/5
Sillage 4/5
Projection 3.5/5
Longevity 4/5
Price: £375 for 30ml, £595 for 100ml
I recently interviewed Roja Dove to find out more about his illustrious career and stunning range of fragrances. Find out more in my Blu Blazer Chats to section.
BLU BLAZER GUY 
The least talked about, but the best and most elegant of the three Aoud
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It certainly is! I was very surprised with how much I liked it
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