by Swiss Arabian
Shaghaf Oud Aswad is a rich, deeply aromatic oud fragrance centered around a distinctive rose note, with a complex interplay of woody, spicy, and resinous accords. The opening features a strong, jammy rose with saffron, thyme, and fresh herbal notes that create a vibrant, almost medicinal burst—some find this intense or even overwhelming, though it settles into a smoother, more harmonious profile within minutes. As it develops, the rose integrates with oud, cumin, patchouli, and leather, supported by amber, vanilla, and sandalwood, delivering a warm, mature, and subtly soapy character that leans toward the floral and sweet. The fragrance projects powerfully, with sillage that can fill a room and lasting well beyond 12 hours on the skin and eons on clothing—making it ideal for colder months or special occasions where a bold presence is desired. Despite the overwhelmingly positive response from many users who praise its longevity, projection, and value, there are clear diverging opinions. Some find the rose note overpowering or cloyingly sweet, while others describe a synthetic or slightly medicinal quality in the drydown. The fragrance is unisex in concept but often leans feminine on most skin types, with some wearing it more confidently as a gender-neutral choice. The oud is not barnyard-style or harsh but instead feels balanced, smoky, and abstract, though its subtlety means it may not satisfy fans of raw, animalic oud profiles. It is not a safe blind buy for those who dislike heavy floral or incense notes.