by Bortnikoff
Oud Monarch is a rich, opulent oud fragrance that strikes a balance between gourmand sweetness and animalic depth, making it accessible to those intimidated by traditional oud scents. It opens with a soft, floral backbone of frangipani and magnolia, which mellows into a warm, chocolatey cacao heart with subtle cinnamon and tobacco accents. The oud here is smooth, slightly medicinal, and far from the barnyard or fecal qualities often associated with oud—instead, it presents a tropical, velvety profile that blends seamlessly with the floral and sweet accords. The drydown is powdery, ambery, with a restrained animalic nuance from castoreum and labdanum, giving depth without aggression. It feels unisex and wears close to the skin, projecting moderately with a soft, elegant trail that lingers for 6 to 8 hours on most skin types. Longevity is reliable but not exceptional, and some users note it fades quickly. The fragrance performs best at night and in colder weather, embodying a refined, wearable sophistication that leans away from theatrical projection toward natural elegance. It succeeds as a real oud fragrance without overwhelming the senses.