Oud Save the King Atkinsons 2013 Eau de Parfum

I bought the Oud Save the King Eau de Parfum after much deliberation. I got hold of a small bottle from a nice Parfumo that really convinced me. This was the fragrance that everyone here was describing and which ultimately tempted me to buy a bottle. I was really looking forward to it and didn't cry a tear for the €100+. It was a great fragrance from the sample.
It finally arrived and I sprayed some on my wrist straight away. Oh shock what was that? It's something completely different. Something very oud-heavy and unpleasant. Okay, wait for the top note, I'm sure it will get better in a minute. Nope, nothing got better. The strong oud note continued through to the base. Only then was it the delicious vanilla-heavy scent from the sample. Mhh what now? I put it in the cupboard and waited. Maybe my nose was having a bad day. Next try a few days later. The sample on my left wrist, the bottle on my right. The same crap again. Delicious on the left, nauseous on the right. I tried it a third time a few days later, but it didn't work. The bottle has to go again.
So what now? Buy another bottle? The sample is just awesome. When was the batch from? My bottle (used) is over 1 year old. Has it been reformulated?
I know it's an oud fragrance, albeit a weak one for beginners. Apparently I can't stand oud. Versace pour Homme Oud Noir also had to go again. It triggered a slight nausea. But why does everyone say it's vanilla-heavy and the sample confirmed that? I'm really unsure about the fragrance and remain somewhat perplexed...