Our take
What does Black Aoud smell like?
Released in 2006 by Montale, the Parisian house known for oud, Black Aoud captures the brand's radical style: few detours, plenty of material. The opening pairs bergamot and grapefruit with a patchouli that is present from the start, tinting everything earthy within seconds. The heart installs the rose-oud accord, a classic of Middle Eastern perfumery: a dark, almost candied rose tangled with a rough oud and ambery labdanum. The base of sandalwood, amber and musk extends it with a resinous, woody warmth of impressive longevity. The result is dense, dark and uncompromising, and it remains one of Montale's most recognisable scents.
When to wear it
Evenings in cold weather, in moderation; it suits lovers of intense ouds and bold rose-oud pairings.
It belongs to the Floral, Woody, Musky family. Black Aoud is one of 2 creations by Montale in our encyclopedia.
