If exquisite quality and class could be distilled into a single scent, it would be this oil. The name was the only one we could consider. This artisanal oud embodies the spirit of the legendary Mughal courts — known for their magnificent patronage of perfumery, their reverence for the wood, and their understanding that scent could be a kind of statecraft. The opening is like stepping back into an era where every fragrance told a story of grandeur. It begins with the earthy robustness of hay and a subtle barnyard note, grounding you in authenticity from the first inhalation. Soon the air fills with sweet fruit mingled with the sophistication of leather. Layers of dark honey and a whisper of chocolate add a touch of indulgence to what is already a substantial opening. Over the next five to ten minutes, the initial earthiness softens, making way for a richer heart in which honeyed musk and sun-dried fruits take centre stage. Cherries and cocoa linger, adding depth. The presence of leather and hay remains throughout, threading the composition back to the natural world and to the perfumed halls of the Mughal palaces that still stand across the subcontinent. After around thirty minutes the deeper character reveals itself in full. The base is a lavish mix of sweet and sour fruits and berries, entwined with rich honey and creamy caramel. The mature scent of leather is enhanced by musky and hay nuances, while aromatic spices subtly appear at the close, providing a sophisticated finale to a fragrance as regal as the empire that inspired it. Worn well, this oil makes you stand a little straighter. Assam, India. 2024 Available in a 2.5g bottle
