Extreme Oud

Extreme Oud from the French brand Louis Varel is a compact oud fragrance worn by anyone. Everyone who describes it calls it both woody and floral, and about half add resinous.

Five notes are listed, and they divide neatly. Oud and patchouli form the woody side, the oud deep, dark and slightly animalic, the patchouli earthy and dry. Geranium and osmanthus supply the floral side: geranium brings a green, rosy sharpness that freshens the opening, while osmanthus adds a softer apricot-and-suede warmth in the middle. Labdanum joins the two halves with a sticky, ambery resin that is warm and faintly leathery, and it is the note that gives the drydown its weight.

No wearers have yet reported on longevity or sillage, though oud and labdanum compositions tend to be persistent. It is best suited to cooler months and evenings, and to someone who wants a straightforward oud without a long list of extras.

Extreme Oud — unisex fragrance by Louis Varel. Notes: Agarwood (Oud), Geranium, Labdanum, Osmanthus, Patchouli. — Parfica open fragrance database