Chinese Oud 中國沉香

Bergamot and orange dance across aldehydes that gleam like freshly polished silverware, creating an almost mentholated freshness that's bracingly clean. The oud announces itself as a distant woody shadow, smoky rather than sharp, grounding these bright top notes before they drift away entirely.

The Chinese florals gradually claim territory, the rose otto emerging with a slightly dusty, peppery character whilst the gardenia softens into a creamy, almost skin-like warmth. The oud deepens considerably here, becoming increasingly resinous and incense-like, no longer a background player but a genuine presence that anchors the floral medley.

Mysore sandalwood and patchouli assert themselves with quiet confidence, joined by Indonesian vanilla that reads more as subtle sweetness than gourmand indulgence. The oakmoss provides an earthy, slightly smoky finish that lingers for hours, leaving behind something that feels less like fragrance and more like a gentle reminder of your presence.