Oud for Greatness by Initio Parfums Privés is a luxurious, bold, and sophisticated fragrance, centered around the powerful and often polarizing note of oud. Part of the brand’s Black Gold Project collection, it seeks to convey a sense of power, luxury, and mysticism, using the unique and rich aroma of oud to create a truly majestic scent.

Overview:

• Brand: Initio Parfums Privés
• Fragrance Name: Oud for Greatness
• Fragrance Type: Eau de Parfum
• Release Year: 2018
• Target Audience: Unisex
• Perfumer: Alberto Morillas

Scent Profile:

Top Notes:

• Saffron: The opening is warm and spicy, with saffron adding a luxurious and slightly leathery facet. Saffron in this fragrance has a sweet and aromatic quality, immediately giving off an exotic, opulent vibe.
• Nutmeg: The nutmeg adds an additional spicy warmth, blending with the saffron to create an aromatic, spiced introduction. It provides a grounding element to balance the oud.
• Lavender: Uniquely, lavender brings a fresh, aromatic brightness to the top, lightening the intensity of the opening and adding an herbal, floral freshness to the otherwise deep and spicy start.

Heart Notes:

• Oud (Agarwood): As the heart of the fragrance develops, the oud takes center stage. The oud in this composition is smooth, rich, and woody, with none of the overly sharp, medicinal qualities that some oud scents have. It feels deep, resinous, and incredibly refined, giving the fragrance a sense of power and mystery.
• Leather Accords: Although not listed as a specific note, the combination of saffron and oud creates an almost leather-like impression in the heart, adding a luxurious, smoky dimension that feels sensual and grounding.

Base Notes:

• Patchouli: In the base, patchouli provides an earthy, woody backbone, adding depth and grounding the fragrance with its rich, slightly sweet and balsamic quality. It harmonizes beautifully with the oud, enhancing its smoky, earthy qualities.
• Musk: The musk in the base is soft and subtle, adding a touch of sensual warmth to the dry-down. It helps to smooth out the fragrance, making it feel less abrasive and more inviting as it lingers on the skin.

Performance:

• Longevity: Exceptional. Oud for Greatness is a beast when it comes to longevity, easily lasting 10-12 hours or more on the skin. The rich and heavy nature of the fragrance ensures it stays noticeable throughout the day and into the night.
• Projection: Strong. This fragrance has significant projection, especially in the first few hours after application. It has a powerful sillage that will leave a lasting impression, making it a fragrance that announces its presence without being too overbearing.
• Versatility: Due to its boldness and richness, Oud for Greatness is best suited for evening wear, special occasions, or colder weather. It’s ideal for formal events where you want to make a statement. In hot weather or casual settings, it could feel a bit too intense, but in cooler environments, it truly shines.

Impression:

Oud for Greatness is an intoxicating blend of oud and spices, perfectly balanced to avoid overwhelming the senses. It manages to walk the line between power and elegance, creating a fragrance that is bold yet refined. The oud is rich and smooth, without any of the harsh or medicinal qualities that can sometimes be associated with this note. Instead, it feels luxurious, deep, and commanding.

The addition of saffron and nutmeg adds a spicy warmth that gives the fragrance an exotic and mystical quality, while lavender brings a fresh and aromatic counterbalance, preventing the fragrance from feeling too dark or heavy. The base of patchouli and musk provides a smooth, earthy finish that lingers beautifully on the skin, making the dry-down soft yet still powerful.

Who Would Like This?

• Fans of bold, powerful fragrances that center around oud and spices.
• Those who enjoy luxurious, sophisticated compositions that make a statement.
• Anyone looking for a long-lasting, high-performing fragrance that works well in colder weather or formal settings.
• Lovers of rich, oriental fragrances with warm, woody, and slightly spicy facets.