Oud Khôl

Oud Khôl by Guerlain is a bold, avant-garde chypre centered on smoky, charred oud with a strikingly soapy and metallic aldehyde opening that quickly evolves into a deeply earthy, leathery, and mossy base. It opens with a jarring blend of harsh aldehydes and tarry oud, creating an arresting, almost confrontational first impression—reminiscent of a campfire-burned resin or a tannery’s raw chemicals. Over time, this transforms into a majestic, smoky, and velvety woody accord with subtle caramel-like praline notes emerging in the drydown. The longevity is exceptional, and the sillage remains strong even hours into wear, making it a standout for night wear. Despite being marketed as unisex, its intensity and animalic depth lean strongly toward a masculine or non-binary aesthetic, though some users report surprisingly feminine interpretations when worn with confidence. The fragrance is not about sweetness or comfort—it demands reverence and is suited only for those who appreciate audacious, minimalist design in fragrance.