Oud

Oud, also called agarwood, is the resinous heartwood of the Aquilaria tree and the backbone of Arabian perfumery. It smells deep, woody and smoky, sometimes with leathery, sweet or faintly medicinal facets. In modern fragrances it is often softened with rose, amber or vanilla so it reads warm rather than sharp. Oud-led scents tend to suit cooler evenings and formal occasions, and a small amount goes a long way.