Oud Noir Intense is the epitome of a clean and professional smelling oud, perfectly executed. Upon initial spray you’re blasted with a clean cut, refined oud combined with a warming note of cardamom and sharp bergamot. The opening has a somewhat animalic facet which some have described as smelling like cheese - I get where this comparison comes from, but thankfully it’s only fleeting. In the heart, the oud is brightened with a smooth and sparkly combination of jasmine and rose, before settling in to a musky base of saffron, patchouli and sandalwood. However, the oud is the real star here and smells absolutely incredible. This does have similarities to Tom Ford’s Oud Wood, in that it takes oud in a very clean and sophisticated direction - something I can imagine an important business person wearing. I find the name a bit misleading however as to me the scent isn’t very Noir, or intense - it’s actually fairly bright and easy to wear for an oud and the longevity isn’t great either. This is one of my favourite ouds in my collection and a true masterpiece, but only worth it if you can find it for less than retail price.