by Mancera
Blue Aoud by Mancera delivers a bold, pungent opening dominated by black pepper, clove, tarragon, and a prominent leather note, creating a sharp, medicinal aroma that some liken to old bandages or cheap plastic toys. The scent is intense and projected with enormous sillage, making it best suited for nighttime or solitary wear. While the initial shock of the tarragon and perfume’s acridity can be off-putting at first, it evolves into a dry, aromatic oud-like heart where rose and woodsy elements gain prominence. The dry down reveals a velvety, musky warmth with amber and leather lingering for hours, contributing to exceptional longevity. Although it’s not universally appealing — some find it harsh or artificially plastic — those who appreciate aggressive, spicy-woody fragrances with a supple, masculine edge will find this a compelling choice. Its performance is outstanding, and it bears a strong resemblance to Mancera's The Aoud, though with a more aromatic and less rose-dominant profile.