Oud : Perfume’s Liquid Gold
Revered for centuries, oud—also known as agarwood—is often called “liquid gold” in the fragrance world
Few perfume ingredients carry the mystique, depth, and sheer luxury of oud. Its intoxicating, complex aroma has captivated royalty, perfumers, and fragrance connoisseurs across cultures, making it one of the most sought-after and expensive raw materials in perfumery.
The Origins of Oud
Oud originates from the resinous heartwood of the Aquilaria tree, which primarily grows in Southeast Asia, India and the Middle East.
When the tree becomes infected with a specific type of mould (Phialophora parasitica), it produces a dark, fragrant resin as a defence mechanism. This resin-impregnated wood is then harvested, distilled, and transformed into the precious essence that is oud.
Historically, oud has held a sacred place in various cultures. Used in religious ceremonies, traditional medicine, and personal fragrance rituals, it has long been a symbol of opulence and spirituality. Ancient Egyptian, Chinese and Arabian texts reference its use in incense and perfumery, further cementing its legendary status.
The Scent Profile of Oud
The aroma of oud is profoundly rich and multidimensional. It can range from smoky, woody, and leathery to animalic, sweet, and balsamic, depending on its origin and method of extraction. High-quality oud possesses an unparalleled depth, evolving on the skin over hours, making it a prized base note in luxury fragrances.
Natural oud is rare, and its scent varies significantly based on factors such as tree species, age, and extraction techniques. The finest oud oils come from aged trees and are distilled using traditional methods, yielding a warm, resinous, and slightly spicy aroma with a hypnotic intensity.
One of the rarest and most revered forms of oud is Kinam oud, also known as Kyara. Found in only the most mature Aquilaria trees, Kinam oud is celebrated for its exceptional richness and ethereal quality. Unlike conventional oud, Kinam exudes an extraordinary smoothness, blending deep, woody notes with hints of spice, honey and refined smokiness.
This unparalleled depth makes Kinam oud a prized ingredient in some of the most exquisite fragrances, such as Zumar, a luxurious scent that masterfully pairs Kinam oud accord with French Rose paste. The result is an opulent, velvety composition that envelops the wearer in a regal embrace.
The Future of Oud
With increasing demand and dwindling natural sources, sustainability in oud production has become crucial. Ethical sourcing, plantation-grown agarwood, and innovative extraction techniques are being developed to ensure the longevity of this prized ingredient without depleting wild forests. Synthetic oud molecules, crafted in laboratories, are also gaining popularity, allowing perfumers to capture the essence of oud while reducing ecological impact.
Oud remains one of the most mesmerising and luxurious ingredients in the world of perfumery. Its rich heritage, unparalleled depth, and intoxicating aroma continue to enchant fragrance lovers, ensuring its place as the heart of many iconic scents.
Whether in its pure form or as part of a sophisticated blend, oud’s legendary status as “liquid gold” is undeniably well-deserved.
Zumar: The Regal Essence of Kinam Oud
A truly luxurious scent crafted for those who embrace elegance and sophistication, making it an essential addition to the collection of any perfume connoisseur.
What sets Zumar apart is its extraordinary use of Kinam oud accord and French Rose paste, two of the most prized elements in the world of perfumery.
The Kinam oud, renowned for its unparalleled depth and complexity, exudes an earthy richness that is both grounding and enigmatic, while the French rose paste enhances the floral profile with its velvety and opulent essence. Together, they form the core of Zumar’s unique character, enveloping the wearer in a regal embrace.
