Olibanum.Oud (Céline Perdriel) 2022 + A Dark Dream Giveaway

Olibanum.oud

J’s image of Olibanum.Oud

For thousands of years, olibanum/frankincense has played a vital role in religious and spiritual rituals, symbolising purity and virtue. Its fragrant aroma when burned made it a popular choice for nearly all religions or scared ceremonies. Revered for its profound spiritual significance, olibanum resin and oil represents themes of purification, spirituality and a connection to higher realms. In the context of spiritual healing, its aromatic properties are believed to cleanse negative energies, uplift the spirit and foster a sense of inner peace and harmony. In contemporary practices, olibanum essential oil is frequently used during meditation to enhance tranquility, as it helps slow the breath and encourages relaxation, there’s also potential for it to have beneficiary health factors, taken topically or ingested by capsule or diluted in water. Founder Gérald Ghislain’s choice to focus on Olibanum as a material is rather clever, as it resonates with so many people.

Boswellia sacra tree (Dhofar) and green hojari sacra resin

Boswellia sacra tree in Wadi Dowkah (Dhofar) and green hojari sacra resin via Wikipedia.

Personally its one of my favourite materials in perfumery, packed with a complex array of aromas, from lime citrus to green fresh pine to soft woody smoky amber balsamic facets depending on the region its harvested from. With Olibanum.Oud. Perfumer Céline Perdriel gives us a much darker experience almost as if your smelling olibanum and oud being burned in a Bakhoor.  It is a darkly delicious take giving you a smoky rich dark haze to dream in.

Perfumer Céline Perdriel and Gerald Ghislain

Perfumer Céline Perdriel and Olibanum. founder Gérald Ghislain courtesy of the brand.

Olibanum.Oud gives us an enchanting and shadowy interpretation of Sacra, the brand’s “signature” and a beautiful perfume in its own right, you can read my short review of it here. Olibanum.Oud invites the senses into a nocturnal realm where smoky oud notes blur with dry spiced rose capturing the essence of a traditional Bakhoor. The perfume unfurls in a rich and dense plume of incense smoke, a luxurious cool olibanum full of fresh pine aromas glistening with gentle balsamic resins aromas is slowly joined by oud making a dark dusty rose bloom. These materials intertwine seamlessly; creating a foundation that is both enveloping and mysterious.

Terpenic notes of fresh fir and pine emerge, dancing playfully around the edges of the composition, fore-shadowing the woods of the oud. These fresh, green qualities provide a striking contrast to the deeper, more resinous elements of the olibanum, adding a subtle layer of complexity that keeps the experience engaging while also meditative. Cool, ethereal aromas flicker with a gentle floral spice, its bright reds resonate with the greens evolving as a gentle, peppery rose blooms soft with grace, harmonizing beautifully with the deep resins that anchor the base. Slowly Olibanum. Oud becomes darker, more enigmatic as if the oud and olibanum have been heated on charcoal with a soft char of smokiness giving, Olibanum.Oud this dark smoky rich musk. It captures the mysterious feel of the night, conjuring images of ancient rituals and sacred spaces, while also having a modern sophistication that makes it suitable for any occasion.

Rose Black Baccara

Rose Black Baccara and agarwood via Wikipedia

The rose turns into the dark dusty dry haze, like deep velvet as the fresher olibanum notes play a beautiful counter point to the dark oud smoky woods. There’s whisper of leather with cacao and dry woods with almost a vanillic woody sweetness that gentle softens Olibanum.Oud, creating a sophisticated and elegant musk that envelops you in a delightful haze, creating an aura of intrigue and allure. The darker woody undertones lend a sense of richness and complexity, inviting exploration and contemplation, while the interplay of notes creates a beautifully balanced composition that is both grounding and uplifting. Olibanum. Oud is easy to wear, feeling dark yet has this delightful transparent feel, like mystery wrapped in smoke. Perfect for a dark evening full of contemplation.

Notes: Pimento Berry, Rose, Oud, Olibanum.

Disclosure: Olibanum.Oud travel size was sent to J for review, thoughts and nose are his own.

–J Wearescentient, Senior Editor, artist & olfactive writer.

Oud by Olibanum perfumes

J’s image of Olibanum.Oud

Thanks to the generosity of Olibanum. we have a bottle of Olibanum.Oud for one registered reader in the USA or EU only. You must register or your entry will not count. To be eligible, please leave a comment saying what sparks your interest based on J’s review of Olibanum.Oud and where you live. Draw closes 11/3/2024

Please read J’s review of Layering ideas of Sacra, Oud, Tubereuse & Osmanthus  Nicoleta’s review of Neroli  with a brand overview and her 3 you should be wearing Olibanum Sacra, Vanille, Iris.

You can read Michelyn’s interview with Gerald Ghislain here

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27 comments

  • Sybelle16 says:

    what peaked my interest from the review was the
    new interpretation on their signature scent, Sacra, to give it a modern twist with the Olibanum.Oud; with particular focus on the rose accord rose that becomes a “dark dusty dry haze”— but keeps that intensity as it strikes a balance the fresher olibanum notes—a counter point to the dark oud smoky woods. A floral spice for the cooler, colder weather.

    USA

  • Ramses Perez says:

    Olibanum is one of those notes we often see on fragrances but me, myself don’t quite know its particular nuances.the scent itself does lean dark on account of the incensy feel and what’s why J said is better suited for a night out. The rose note does softens the incense present a little but not enough to overpower it, it is still there. A rather simple note composition and fragrance but it showcases what it’s set out to do, the perfect marriage of Oud and olibanum like the name tells us. I’m located in the USA.

  • docm3902 says:

    The way J describes the smoky, mysterious feel of this perfume, almost like an ancient ritual in a bottle, makes it sound like an experience more than just a scent. The idea of olibanum and oud burning together, creating that smoky, resinous haze, is so intriguing—perfect for colder nights when you just want to wrap yourself in something dark and meditative.

    Also, that balance between fresh pine, spicy rose, and the deep, rich oud? It sounds like the kind of fragrance that keeps unfolding, revealing new layers the longer you wear it. And the mention of that subtle leathery, cacao-like touch? I can already imagine how luxurious and sophisticated it must feel. Definitely adding this one to my wish list—need to experience this “dark smoky rich musk” for myself!

    I am from the EU

  • Jeremi says:

    J describes the fragrance as a “dark dream,” which suggests a mysterious and captivating experience. This kind of imagery can be very appealing to those who enjoy fragrances that tell a story or evoke strong emotions and that really sparks my interest. I live in Trzebnica, Poland, EU.

  • David Furman says:

    I am a fiend for oud. I yearn for oud. When faced with the urge I always fall in spraying myself, for myself. It is one of those fine delicacies that I truly adorn and appreciate. One thing I love about oud is that no two ouds are the same. Not only in terms of scent profile and quality, but also they all have different facets and some are even multilayered constantly changing on the wearer. The oud crazy has pushed to the limits and I hope they can sustain agarwood populations for generations to come. It’s a fine eastern craft and it’s a shame what going on the the cultivation of our beloved Oud. From Jacksonville, NC.

  • AromaDulce73 says:

    This sounds right up my alley. What sparked my interest was J’s description of Olibanum Oud as “incense smoke, a luxurious cool olibanum full of fresh pine aromas glistening with gentle balsamic resins aromas.”

    Even though I’m not a fan of rose it seems like this would blend real nice with the other notes in this fragrance. Seems perfect for the brisk evenings here in California.

    Los Angeles Ca. USA

  • roxhas1cat says:

    I love this line. I purchased a set of samples and so far haven’t decided which one. I love resins, just so grounding and spiritual. I love that this is dark yet easy to wear. Thanks for the chance. USA.

  • Eris.can.swatch.kaos says:

    I just adore the scent of olibanum in a fragrance. It brings out such resinous beauty and adds warmth. Mixed with oud, here you have a winning combination with the rose, a perfect balance. I love how well this reviewer translates the notes of this perfume into a story. It really makes me want to experience this for myself. I live in Oregon.

  • George says:

    I’m drawn to Olibanum.Oud’s mysterious blend of smoky oud, fresh pine, and velvety rose—it feels like an ancient ritual captured in a bottle, perfect for deep, introspective moments.

    Greece

  • Jason says:

    Olibanum.Oud blends the spiritual essence of olibanum with smoky oud, pimento, and rose, creating a rich, nocturnal allure. Fresh pine contrasts with dark, velvety notes of oud and rose, softened by hints of leather and cacao. Perfect for quiet reflection or a sophisticated evening.

    Malta

  • amanna says:

    Olibanum.Oud sounds absolutely stunning. As an oud fanatic, I’m always excited by the unique combinations perfumers explore with the material, be it a riff on classics (as here, riffing on bakhoor and the always fashionable oud-rose) or novel combinations. J’s review highlights the beautiful balance in Olibanum.Oud, from the bright, terpenic green notes through to the rosy oudy heart, down to the dark incense haze of the olibanum. That dance between the difference aspects of the sacra is what interests me most about Olibanum.Oud. I would love an opportunity to try this fragrance! Best wishes from the US.

  • deeshla says:

    I’m fascinated by the description of this scent profile – the dark and mysterious imagery and the spiritual framing. That definitely makes me want to try it!
    I’m in the U.S.

  • opalbear says:

    Nothing compares to authentic olibanum! It’s so healing and invigorating and relaxing. It feels like a protective shield. And nothing better than the classic rose oud olibanum combination. Régal and commanding. This house sounds amazing and I would love to try any of their offerings.
    U.S.

  • BigMickyD says:

    I am very intrigued by this oudy, smoky, musky perfume. It feels unique, while still sticking to the true-and-tried formulas of previous perfumes within the genre. J did a great job in conveying the smell and essence of the perfume, and it’s safe to say my interest was caught within the first few sentences.

    I live in Sweden, EU.

  • cnii says:

    I have been wanting to become more familiar with Olibanum as a material recently, and since Olibanum.Oud features it prominently, this seems like an opportunity for both learning and pleasure. Thanks to J for a very descriptive review, as well as to Olibanum the brand!
    I’m in WV, USA

  • Trinity33 says:

    Olibanum is a very relaxing and grounding note. Combining it with smoky oud gives a definite sacred vibe. The dark, peppery rose combined with some pine, leather, vanilla and dry woods to create a complex spiritual scent. I love the layering idea with different fragrances from the same line. MD, USA

  • PerfumesforLife says:

    I am a fan of Sacra when I tried it a while ago. I am so happy to see them get into the rose and combination of their signature accord with oud and rose. Dark rose ouds are my favorite and I am interested in experiencing how Olibanum played with it. Review was on point.

    USA

  • hippononamus says:

    What sparks my interest is that neither the brand nor J identify the type of oud used in this composition. Surely a fragrance centering around such a complex aromatic deserves more description than smoky and woody. Nonetheless, I love heating up frankincense and agarwood over charcoal, currently enjoying a piece of Ogurayama from Baiedo that’s giving off some slight cherry notes. I’d mostly like to try this composition to discern what type of agarwood they’re using for such a reasonably priced fragrance. I’m in the US.

  • rdy3439 says:

    Smoky oud and dry spiced rose sounds intriguing. J’s review has me ready for a cold, dark evening wearing a complex scent like Olibanum Oud. Thanks you for the giveaway. From Texas, USA

  • Salem says:

    I love a great rose-oud combo and Olibanum.Oud seems to fit that category perfectly! J described it as a very dark and contemplative perfume and by the description, I imagine it as a dense and musky oudy rose. My interest was particularly piqued by the smokey aspect of the fragrance: as if it was “heated on charcoal”. Also, the pimento berry in the notes list is a note I am not familiar with, so I would love to have a chance to experience it.
    Thank you!
    EU.

  • Laurentiu says:

    I saw these bottles at the Histoire de Parfums store in Paris, but I did not know that it was a different concept, I thought they were new releases from HdP. I did not get to test any of them, as all my attention was towards HdP, but reading now about the whole idea behind Olibanum, I really wish I did when I had the chance.

    I really like olibanum/frankincense, but also the note of rose so I feel like this one would be an easy one for me to wear and enjoy. Thanks! Europe

  • Maria says:

    I love all things oud and the comparison to Bakhoor intrigues me. Olibanum is a great company as the prices are reasonable
    Thank you for this opportunity

  • MatthewKeilwitz says:

    This concoction sounds like a unique combination to modern sensibilities, but at the same time an ancient and holy union that appeals to some ancestral part of our being. It evokes images of smoke drifting from a brazier that hangs from a warm tent rafter sitting in the chill of a timeless eastern desert’s night. Meanwhile your adoring partner lies waiting in a bed covered in silk.

    The scent sounds floral, but not overwhelmingly sweet. Dark, but not brooding. Contemplative, but not melancholy.

    I’d love to try it out.

    FL, USA

  • iudita says:

    I love the scent of the rose mixed with oud and from J’s review I understand that olibanum makes this perfume deeper, darker and more luxurious. I find it interesting that it takes you in a “nocturnal realm where smoky oud notes blur with dry spiced rose”. I’d love to try it.
    I live in Italy

  • Maestro says:

    I’ve always been captivated by the deep, spiritual history of Olibanum. Oud beautifully brings this sacred material into a modern fragrance that feels both timeless and intriguing. Its blend of smoky oud and spiced rose creates a mysterious, almost nocturnal atmosphere reminiscent of traditional Bakhoor. The interplay of fresh pine and fir with the dark, resinous olibanum is striking, adding complexity and an almost meditative depth. Olibanum Oud feels like a journey into ancient rituals, capturing the essence of sacred spaces with a sophisticated touch. This has quickly become one of my favorites for its balance of darkness and elegance—a perfect scent for quiet, contemplative evenings. Greetings from Paris

  • mmerline says:

    J’s description of the many facets of Olibanum perfectly captures its breadth, from citrus-like, to tanic, to smoky. Perdriel’s combination of olibanum and oud sounds intriguingly dark, playing off that smoky side of this expressive material. Her use of spiced rose is particularly intriguing, using that dry floral aspect to play off the balsamic freshness of the olibanum, and then the green qualities as well. Olibanum.Oud seems to magnify the most appealing qualities of both materials without overcomplicating things. As with other fragrances in this line, cool bottle too.

    I’m in the USA.

  • wallygator88 says:

    Reading this review of Olibanum Oud by Celine Perdriel, I was transported into a world of dark, enigmatic allure. The initial burst of olibanum, with its resinous and slightly sweet aroma, enveloped me like a warm, mystical embrace. The oud then unfurls its rich, woody depths, creating a mesmerizing dance with the olibanum.

    The interplay between the smoky, almost incense-like quality of the olibanum and the deep, earthy oud is nothing short of magical. It’s as if the two notes are engaged in a passionate tango, each taking turns to lead and follow. The olibanum adds a touch of ethereal lightness, while the oud grounds the scent with its robust, almost primal essence.

    As the fragrance evolves, subtle hints of spice and leather emerge, adding layers of complexity and intrigue. It’s a scent that feels both ancient and modern, a timeless blend that lingers on the skin like a whispered secret.