Oud Yusuf-Perfume
If there was ever an oud that was made to be turned into a perfume, it would be…
The lilacs and lilies, those notes of honeydew and apricot, the sumptuous melange of oud resin, flowers, and fruit has made Oud Yusuf one of the most beloved ouds ever.
Anybody who knows something about oud, knows Oud Yusuf.
If there was ever an oud that was made to be turned into a perfume, it would be Oud Yusuf. If there was ever an ‘oud perfume’ worthy of that title, it’s what you’ve got here.
Actually, after a spritz of Oud Yusuf, anyone who’s tried a bunch of oud perfumes wouldn’t know what hit them. The ‘oud’ note in all those perfumes is courtesy of cheap fermented Laotian ouds or the even cheaper artificial concoction shared by nearly all of them. Instead of that dark ‘oudy’ image those are about, Oud Yusuf is delectable. A sweet woodiness that, once you’ve smelled it, you know what all the praise is about.
As far as I’m concerned, Oud Yusuf was my first oud perfume.
Other perfumes may have contained oud, often copious amounts of it, but the oud was used to complement a theme build around musk or iris, tobacco or blue lotus.
But in Oud Yusuf, the auxiliary aromatics and botanicals all serve to serenade the star of the show: OUD.
This perfume jams those lilacalicious apricot chords, along with rose and a gourmand chef’s favorite spices into a bottle of what must be one of the most beautiful perfumes.
I thought of calling this edition Oud Yusuf Senior because of the caliber ouds it contains compared to the previous edition.
While it does contain the actual Oud Yusuf oud, it also contains proper red, wild Cambodian oud – and more of it than Oud Yusuf itself!
You may wonder why we’d use another oud when the point is to have rendition of Oud Yusuf (Kambodi 1976 is already available, after all).
Simple: I’m releasing this signature EO as part of our 20th jubilee and I wanted to make this edition better than ever.
Better also meant swapping out a number of ingredients in the OG for superior batches…
This edition contains what to my nose is the most impeccable HD portrait of the scent of real rose petals jammified in oil form: a precious Rose de Mai extract from the south of France.
The way the rose dances with mandarin and blood orange, precious jonquille, and other botanicals brings me to the point of using superior oud.
We’re paying tribute to Oud Yusuf by using Oud Yusuf’s grandaddy trees that were much older – and wild harvested. Alongside the redder mandarin/blood orange tone with the exquisite French rose, it’s what the red Cambodi does to the brew that lets this perfume give you, instead of just apricots, a peachier, juicier profile – that shouts OUD unlike ever before.
But I’ve barely begun…
The wild Cambodi alongside Oud Yusuf (the oud) is further complemented with another batch of Cambodian oud – and this one’s been infused with Tonkin musk!
I did two of these infusion at the same time (both have been steeped for about three years now). You know the one as Aroha Mysaku, and the other is what jacks up this perfume’s juiciness with a hefty shot of now-extinct musk.
And the Tonkin boost doesn’t end here. This edition’s carrier is entirely made of Tonkin musk tincture which takes the red muskiness, once more to another level.
As a composer, sometimes the story reveals itself during its writing. You smell the juicier, redder aroma; Oud Yusuf on steroids – and as you study the olfactory tapestry and wonder what could add to this profile to make it better yet, the thought hits you…
…But you can’t use that, can you?
Distilled in 2012, we’ve been keeping this gem for the past twelve years to perhaps release in the future because it’s such an irreplaceable oud.
There’s Koh Kong’s red and then there’s the rooibos verve of the finest aged Bhutanese oud that would inject not just that Bhutani red but also Agallocha’s warm pollen profile to the mandarin and orange blossom to both enhance and thicken the opening notes.
Just pause for a second. When I say these ouds are in here – that Oud Yusuf is the least of them (and quantity-wise is used least) – remember that this composition is 50% OUD. You’re not just getting a smidgen of red Cambodis and a tiny dash of irreplaceable Bhutanese oud – no Maam, they make up HALF the brew!
Oud at such a high concentration – ouds of such caliber in such high concentrations – should give you an idea of what you’re in for. But it’s the small accessory notes that refine the oud; it’s that exquisite French rose fused with thick jonquille and blood orange and the way all of it comes together that makes Oud Yusuf what it is. Delectable. And like the neat oud – it’s basically impossible not to love it! (See the reviews below to see what I mean).
Ships by 9 Sept.
Featured Testimonials
This gem needs no introduction.
The senior version of the first Oud perfume by one of the very best Oud distillers on the planet.
Part of the EO: Heritage collection, this edition is bolder and darker than the original fragrance, with a mélange of extra Ouds from Cambogia and Koh Kong’s red 12 yrs distillation and aged Bhutanese Oud infused with tonkin musk, brightened by the sweetest roses de mai, lilacs and narcissus, among other greeneries, made juicier with apricot and bloody orange overture… but don’t be fooled by these peachy delicacies: the Prima Donna is Oud here!
The only Oud perfume you need, if there ever was one.
Speechless poetry.
Okay, my first impression of Oud Yusuf. I really like it. I had the Oud Yusuf EdP a long time ago. Accordingly, I can still remember the older version a little, but not 100%. The new Oud Yusuf is definitely different. But the OG DNA is definitely still well woven in and is well complemented by the new ouds. What I particularly like is the musk that is contained here and is clearly noticeable from time to time. As if you were in a cloud of musk. At first, however, you notice a lot of flowers. This seems to create the orange scent impression. The scent starts off floral and sweet but not too sweet. Later, when the oud comes more to the front, it becomes much woodier, perhaps even slightly leathery. Spices also become more noticeable later. Now there are hardly any flowers left and the main theme is oud and spices. But what is really crazy is the color. When you spray it on, it leaves an extremely intense color on the skin. I have never experienced anything like that with any of my fragrances.
e is always present. After a while the more “woody” aspects of the oud becomes more prominent, and it makes you think of clean, clear fresh woods.
I’ve given the new Oud Yusuf some time before writing anything about it. My initial impression was that it was too bitter and leathery to be worthy of the Yusuf legacy, but the more I wear it, the fruity, sweeter fruit aspects have made themselves known.
Now I find it utterly addicting and gorgeous.
The first thing I smell when I spray is the red, earthy/fruity bite of Cambodian Oud. This is quite different from the original formula which was Thai fruity/floral from the start.
As it dries down the honeydew, orange and apricot peek out, but only behind the Oud, which now a beautiful blend of Oud Yusuf oil and the Cambodi. It stays like this for the rest of the wearing. This version of Oud Yusuf reminds me why I fell in love with Agarwood to begin with.
I get that ineffable, rich, resinous sensation that reminds one at once of leather, fruit, earth, wood, and flowers. This is a gorgeous perfume that ticks a lot of boxes for me.
Reviews of Previous Edition:
– Syed S, Pakistan
This one is truly all about the oud. The composition is flawless, with the perfect supporting notes that elevate the oud without overshadowing it.
Lilacs and lilies add a soft floral touch, while honeydew and apricot introduce a delicate sweetness.
Subtle hints of orange blossom and May rose bring elegance, and the Tonkin musk wraps everything in a warm, sensual finish.
The balance is impeccable, creating an oud experience that feels out-of-this-world. – Haider V, UK
I must confess that Oud Yusuf is the most beautiful oud perfumes I have ever smelt.
The high concentration of essential oils gives it an unparalleled texture, and the fragrance it produces, a fusion of fruity and woody aromas, adds more to its lure.
No oud perfume has ever achieved this extent of elegance, left me such a remarkable olfactory experience. A perfume that fits very much the aesthetic of East Asia.
Thank you for bringing this to us. Masterpiece! – Miqi Pan, China
I’m enjoying the beautiful Oud Yusuf. How nice to be reunited with the first oud I ever smelled. Brings to mind Kipling’s quote, “…smells like morning in paradise.” Thanks so very much. – Beverly, USA
This is the perfume that designer “Oud” fragrances wish they could be. It is truly a gem! – TJ, USA
This perfume reminds me of home. I don’t even know how to write a response to this. It reminds me of my home country Vietnam when the smell of smoke at the altar was in the air while monks tried to keep us from leaving the mountain. So many childhood memories triggered. Mostly memories of feeling at home. This perfume is priceless. – Joaquin, Vietnam
I received my Oud Yusuf. Let me express my absolutely deepest respect and admiration for your exquisite craftmanship. You have given me THE greatest, most joyful experience in thirty years of perfume collecting. My deepest respect. – Josef, Sweden
I’d say it’s more about apricot and lilacs, which were really prominent in the oil itself. I think up until that point Thais only exhibited fruits and resins but not really florals like lilac and definitely not apricot.
Ensar seems to have pronounced these traits but there’s a defined woodiness as well as strong floral overtones. It’s such an interesting fragrance that has no comparison in my opinion.
It’s straight up Oud-centric. More so than any other fragrance he’s released. The drydown is pure Oud oleoresins and if you’ve smelled Oud Yusuf before you’ll recognize that drydown in an instant. It lasts for hours. – Aaron, USA
Oud Yusuf and Homeros are both incredible but very very different. Yusuf is built entirely around the oud and its facets, and while the experience is amazing every time I wear it, it stays consistent. Homeros is an entirely different animal. I’ve probably gotten a dozen full wearings out of it now, and each and every one of them has been different. Every wearing different notes take center stage and the nuances are always showing me something new. Sometimes I get loads of cedar, sometimes leather. Sometimes it’s all about the oud, and one time the citrus was singing to me almost through the entire life of the fragrance. I don’t know if this effect is as pronounced for others as it is for me, but it still blows my mind every time I put it on. Probably the most complex bottle in my collection, and one of my favorites. – Ryan, USA
Ok… So, I bit on the Oud Yusuf!!! So worth it!!
I actually just found myself saying out loud to myself – “I smell so f@#&ing good it’s ridiculous!!”
No reviews yet – I’m probably going to wear this one for another week before being able to describe it – it’s soooo complex and luxurious!!
I was almost nervous about posting this cuz I’ve been thinking I may have to get a second bottle! – Cristina, USA
Oud Yusuf Parfum is nothing short of amazing to me. I’ve tried other oud forward from artisanal houses and nothing has checked my “oud box” like Oud Yusuf. That apricot opening is so juicy while the added florals fills the composition and myself with a soft pillow of bliss. – Drew, Japan
It’s a joy-breeding stunner. I am near my wood burner listening to Hans Zimmer with the now firmly in calm focus. Masterpiece.
My humble gratitude to you all. I am in peace. So glad the universe gave us Ensar Oud. – John, UK
The scent is truly exquisite. This feels like a journey of completion in a bottle. Absolutely stunning…. Now if you’ll excuse me I’m going to continue basking in the cloud of this absolutely magical concoction. I was going to write a review but the language part of my brain pretty much said, “You want me to put this into words?!” when I smelled it. – Royce, USA
This. This is special… Ensar Oud has really created something amazing here.
While you’re initially greeted with the wonderful sandalwood and musk signature of EO parfums, you also get the buzz in the brain that only comes from oud. After the initial blast though, that’s when the true beauty of this creation comes to life. About 5-10 minutes into my first wear, the EO base quietly stepped back, and the sweetness of the apricot starts coming through.
Subtle, yet present, sweet, but not overpowering. It’s wonderfully balanced, artistic, and also both exciting and entrancing. I love many from the house, but if first impressions are any indicator, this, to date, may be his magnum opus. – Chris, USA
Initial impressions Oud Yusuf:
Fairly new to the oud world and the perfume world all together. Started collecting fragrances right before the virus and during which time I’ve acquired numerous amounts (over 30) niche fragrances. Oud Yusuf is my fourth oud fragrance so dont have a lot of experience with ouds.
Opening:
· Starts off with a punch of the smoothest oud with basically zero barnyard or sharp tones. At first the apricot is more flowery and airy and a tad sweet.
Drydown:
· The oud obviously is the main player here so sticks around throughout the drydown being an oud focus scent. Then the apricot turns into a more dried fruit scent with a hint of resins, maybe a light hint of leather.
So far, I’m in love with it, really happy with the purchase and the overall quality of Ensar’s products (which I have 3 of now). Oud Yusuf is definitely my favorite of the few i‘ve smelled. – Mathew, USA
My head is spinning right now! I’ve never had a mind buzz effect from a spray-on perfume before NOW! Sesquiterpenes Galore! Oud Yusuf opens with a leathery Oud punch in the face, and then slowly unveiled its mind buzzing effect on me. In the heart I get Oud, Oud, and more Oud, supported with what I perceive to be purple flowers, and tart natural aldehydes. Some say the drydown reminds them of lillies, but in my opinion, I get a soft lavender effect, as if I’m wandering through a purple field in full bloom. Through the air, I can smell sage bushes in the distance, along with peach trees, and roses in full bloom. The earth is alive, and its scent is captured perfectly in this bottle. The closest comparison I can draw this to is Di-Ser’s and Balkrishnan’s composition Keman, but this is denser, and more resinous. This is the feel-good perfume of your dreams. The quote on the website is right: don’t think, just buy! – Jono, USA
It’s accessible and complex at the same time. I love all the other perfumes but they usually take a few wears for me to begin understand them. Yusuf was instantly accessible but now the more I wear it the more complex it gets. – Andy, USA
So, I decided to take Yusuf to Michigan Ave, in Chicago, for the inaugural wearing. It was cold, but we were wearing our leather jackets. And man, did Yusuf show me a good time! – Anthony, USA
It arrived and it is fantastic… very, very special and unique oud swirl. What a beauty! I’m considering buying a 2nd just for a backup…
20 minutes: spray on my left upper palm… and the leatherish notes are conquering the direct air around my… it is a leather scent super, super strong… Marquis de Sade would have an instant b*ner over this one… sooo nice… I take it to sleep with me!!!! – Walter, Belgium
Indeed, the most beautiful Oud Yusuf. I never had a chance to try the OG. But I believe the parfum version is beautifully crafted. Lilac and apricot and a well-blended rose play a beautiful symphony here.
Outstanding presentation with gold finishing plated on the bottle – Kazu, USA
In all seriousness, if you like Oud with floral elements like apricot, jammy and resinous, swirling into gorgeously creamy woody dry-down that lasts for ages and makes the mind slightly numb… Don’t think, just buy it. – Ryan, Canada
Touchdown in Berlin. I never tried the original Oud Yusuf, but now I understand why this is possibly the prettiest oud you can wear. Now spending time with this bottled flowery apricot-pie-oud-goodness. – Tom, Germany
I think, more and more people should be able to sniff it. What an amazing scent. The presentation, the color of the juice and the smell, everything is quite satiating about this fragrance.
This is a compete fragrance. In my opinion, the heart of this fragrance lies in the balance that has been achieved here. The bitter and the sweet, the bright and the dark, the florals and the resins buttress each other, creating a delightful experience. It’s flamboyant and baroque but succeeds to be modest at the same time. Very far away from the land of young punks looking for panty droppers, this is the style statement of a romantic lover. The hint of earthiness in the heart is balanced by faint powdery-ness from flowers. I believe slight green jasmine and rose are playing the symphony here. A mild acrid-ness is well complemented by dried fruits. I picture florals and dried fruit leather with woody floral oud in the background. Does the base have a bit of civet? The base, what do I say about the base. Pure bliss. Gives me impressions of a dark burgundy or a Bordeaux.
Ensar’s signature is ubiquitous. What an amazing fragrance! It smells natural. Off hand and effortless. But that does not mean it is a simple scent. I understand it has many many layers. A lot of hard work is evident from how all the notes play into each other. As some vice human said, “Balance isn’t something you achieve, ‘someday’”. I am glad that I was online at the right time and clicked to buy it, right before it got sold out. Now, my EO2 leather pouch bottle has a new friend in my scent cabinet. Feels like it was created with me in mind. – Himanshu, USA
This beautiful oud scent goes with the name “Prophet Yusuf, as revered for his noble character and outstanding beauty”. Surely this inspired Ensar to create this heavenly beauty.
The finest organic Trat oud I have ever smelt, with a hypnotic fruity aroma that messes with your senses. I get beautiful frangipani kicking in, which blends really well with oud and also possibly some iris. No barnyard smell—I wouldn’t expect that anyway.
I get ripe apricots at the initial stage, then it settles down into that beautiful, amazing Thai oud. This can be worn by men or women to any occasion.
I am so pleased to have this in my possession. This is the real deal. Real oud! It’ll beat any oud based frags from Selfridges, etc., not to mention names…
Well done to Ensar Oud and his team. This sits right at the top of the list for best oud perfume. I hope Ensar makes more oud-based perfumes similar to this in the future. (I know he loves his musk-based perfumes, which I have and admire and love.) – Muzakkir, UK
Santa really does exist. He rode a DHL sleigh all the way to Canada and delivered this on the night before Christmas.
Small test spray has me believing in magic! The Mrs: “Oh, that smells amazing.”
It’s -33° outside but this little magic potion is keeping the whole house warm. – Ryan, Canada
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