Essence N°4: Oud Elie Saab 2014

Elie Saab Oud Essence is quite a puristic Oud presentation. The notes of black pepper and benzoin listed at the top of the fragrance pyramid do not match the saffron and cinnamon mentioned on the Elie Saab website. I do perceive the saffron, but whatever else is in there besides Oud serves only to support it. This Oud initially starts off a little burnt or smoky, accompanied by a slight note as if someone had heated the tires on the Saab. However, after about two hours, this resinous, rich Oud scent takes over, which fascinates lovers so much. For the next eight hours or so, this perfume simply keeps getting better and better. Then comes the gradual fade until hour twelve or beyond.

It's hard to believe how captivating a single fragrance note can be. Anyone who gets out of this Saab after the second or third round might easily feel the urge to search for even purer Oud variations. I haven't had the pleasure yet (and I also don't have the financial means) to acquire a pure Oud oil from over 100 or more years old agarwood, but I would love to smell it!