Oud (Agarwood)
Oud (or agarwood) forms when the Aquilaria tree is infected by a specific mold and produces a dark, resinous heartwood as a defense. Steam-distilled, the oil is animalic, smoky, and medicinal — an acquired taste that Western perfumery has softened into a sweeter, more approachable 'oud accord' over the last fifteen years. Real oud oil costs thousands of dollars per kilogram; most 'oud' fragrances use a synthetic or blended accord.
Scent Profile
Animalic, smoky, medicinal, balsamic, slightly sweet
Typical Use
Base note in luxury and Middle Eastern fragrances; pairs with rose, saffron, and amber.
Related Notes
Fragrances Containing Oud (Agarwood)
Tom Ford Oud Wood
Tom Ford
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540
Maison Francis Kurkdjian
Creed Royal Oud
Creed
Dior Oud Ispahan
Dior
Related Articles
Two approaches to oud — Tom Ford's approachable Western interpretation versus MFK's richer, more traditional rose-oud take. We compare scent, performance, value, and when to choose each.
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 went from niche darling to the most-recognizable scent of the 2020s. We review the saffron-amber-oud accord, the cultural impact, and the ethics of the $300+ price.
Tom Ford Oud Wood made Middle Eastern oud approachable for Western noses. We review the sandalwood-cedar-oud composition, its role in popularizing the note, and how it compares to authentic agarwood.