Absolue Oud Bouquet

Unfortunately, I have not smelled the original Oud Bouquet so I can only give my thoughts on this new Absolue version.

I mainly get a gourmand from this on the open. It's a sweet, spicy, slightly smoky, woody praline with just a hint of rose. The oud is not a challenging one, and becomes more prominent over time. It has an intoxicating old wooden whiskey cabinet type of smell. Mixed with the nuttiness and the smoky burnt sugar notes from the praline, this is an opulent and sophisticated experience, yet I don't find it overly heavy. The rose is present, but to me is only a supporting player. The notes are very well blended here.

Projection is strong for around 4 hours and the scent lasts on skin for a long time - at least 14 hours.

This is a unisex scent that would be wonderful in cooler weather and for evening outings and dates. I quite enjoy this but I think as I already have MFK's Oud Satin Mood I will not be picking this one up. OSM is more rose heavy and not nutty or smoky, but does give a similar vibe, so I don't need both. My husband really liked it and wanted the sample for himself 😂

I rate this an 8/10 - it is pleasant and interesting with the praline note, but for a "rose perfume," I wish the rose was stronger.