Laos 99 by Agarwood Assam. I have no words for this magical elixir. Clearly an underrated oud with a legend's capability. My first tryst with this oil came with tiny sample from a friend. I was quite focused at that point in time so I was literally jumping in my head when I sniffed it. A kinami shapeshifter. So I immediately contacted brother Zak and enquired about it but I could clearly see his inclination towards 95. No doubt 95 is splendid and complex. Anyway second trial and I was sitting alone under the stars fully focused this time watching my champaca tree against the night sky and the wind was blowing in full mood. And with every whiff that I caught of this beauty I was getting bitter kinaminess but mixed with the rosewood smell of Hainan.....wow. The opening was such a contrast with a full blown old school incense balsam green aroma with hints of Hindi leather almost like a wild sinensis. And at the offered price, I am afraid it is simply charity. The first complete inhale will numb your brain. What s stunner. The 95 in contrast has a sweeter drydown. 99 is spiritual. Just needs focus.....more focus.... Sorry if I am sounding weird but gentlemen please listen to the whole spectrum on my request. It is rather unbelievable. I have never found an old school Oud which has actually been complimented by my better half. She was caught off guard by its magic too ....I think I can feel blissful now without having to worry about anyone around me.....anymore....and that too on a daily basis....
Oud Oil Reviews - MAIN THREAD
- Thread starter bhanny
- Start date
- Tags artisanal oud oil reviews oud oil
@Rai Munir
Fantastic review sir. Thoroughly enjoyed. I may have to revisit and listen to the Archipelago sample properly.
Fantastic review sir. Thoroughly enjoyed. I may have to revisit and listen to the Archipelago sample properly.
Sir I will send you a proper analysis to the best of my ability within 2 days. As of now the 95 is better in texture but more Indonesi green in opening turning to sweet oud cambodi whiffs. 99 is aggressive and opens up with green brown china and indian leather turning into a bittersweet rosewood with a spicy betelnut leaf/paan saffron nuance. The opening actually numbs my brain. BUZZ. Lol
@kooolaid79 Wow. Thanks a lot sir. I try my best to share what I learn. Its been a great journey. And what an honour it is to hear words of encouragement from collectors and experienced oud lovers like you and @kesiro It truly feels like the journey has been worth it. I will soon take my audience to Level 4 
. An endless journey to make Ouds and Attars popular again. Need your blessings.
. An endless journey to make Ouds and Attars popular again. Need your blessings.
@kooolaid79 Wow. Thanks a lot sir. I try my best to share what I learn. Its been a great journey. And what an honour it is to hear words of encouragement from collectors and experienced oud lovers like you and @kesiro It truly feels like the journey has been worth it. I will soon take my audience to Level 4 . An endless journey to make Ouds and Attars popular again. Need your blessings.
. An endless journey to make Ouds and Attars popular again. Need your blessings.
I finally got the chance to try Laos 99 by Br Zakir at Agarwood Assam.
Oh my was I blown away by the depth and beauty of this magnificent Oudh. This is one of the first Laos Oudhs I have tried and what a beautiful way to try a special Oudh like this.
One of the most beautiful notes I caught very vividly and distinctly was the Sinensis notes which Br @Nikhil S had mentioned.
I wondered how can this be possible to have such a beautiful Sinensis note but then had a look on the map and seeing China bordering Laos, I wasn't surprised. Maybe some of the wind from China got stuck in Laos or maybe the other way around.
The opening also has some aroma of distinguished tea leaves which is found in the tea sections of some organic tea stores (not Starbucks no way!!!)
The sweet citrus/berries coupled with some exotic spices such as cinnamon and star anise makes this oudh something spectacular.
I also think this Oudh could be used for spiritual uplifting. Just make sure to keep your hand away from your nose while doing so.
In conclusion, this oil is a no brainer in obtaining and to use it everyday would be something special. Bravo Br Zakir on this release. Really hit all the cylinders.
Oh my was I blown away by the depth and beauty of this magnificent Oudh. This is one of the first Laos Oudhs I have tried and what a beautiful way to try a special Oudh like this.
One of the most beautiful notes I caught very vividly and distinctly was the Sinensis notes which Br @Nikhil S had mentioned.
I wondered how can this be possible to have such a beautiful Sinensis note but then had a look on the map and seeing China bordering Laos, I wasn't surprised. Maybe some of the wind from China got stuck in Laos or maybe the other way around.
The opening also has some aroma of distinguished tea leaves which is found in the tea sections of some organic tea stores (not Starbucks no way!!!)
The sweet citrus/berries coupled with some exotic spices such as cinnamon and star anise makes this oudh something spectacular.
I also think this Oudh could be used for spiritual uplifting. Just make sure to keep your hand away from your nose while doing so.
In conclusion, this oil is a no brainer in obtaining and to use it everyday would be something special. Bravo Br Zakir on this release. Really hit all the cylinders.
@kooolaid79 brilliant assessment sir. Lovely. You added so many new dimensions. Truly you are an inspiration. And I promise you this stuff will show more colors with subsequent usage. Given the cost of 250/3ml I was left rather flabbergasted for what thos oil could offer me spiritually. I am not an old seasoned collector. I am a learner. Very young. And your review gives me a lot of confidence. I was scared that what if my assessment wasnt upto mark. Have a greay day sir. God bless you.
Keeping on the oils from Zak theme, this is my experience with the Meitei Old Manipur Oud oil. After trying some of the Agarwood Assam oils, it is more clear than ever that each of the artisans and crafters of this precious commodity have their own unique style and signature which they impart to their creations. Despite the completely different aroma of this oil from Zak's other oils, there is a trend emerging in the overall feel and impact these oils have. These are raw, gutsy, and powerful ouds. Meitei opens with wood smoke and a distinct note of delectable smoked and dried meat. With peppercorns used in the curing as well as numerous other spices. There is an animalic component but it's not barn 'in your face' style. Dark dried berries and cherries with whisps of faint flowers.
I can imagine what it would have been like walking through and ancient market square, where vendors display meats and game, spices, fruits, incense, and other aromatics, such as frankincense. I can't help but drool and want over all the wares displayed. That is the imagery I get from wearing this bad boy. A manly man's oud, but obviously any Hindi oud lover could appreciate it.
The oil has good projection and very good longevity. Really like it. Thanks Zak!
I can imagine what it would have been like walking through and ancient market square, where vendors display meats and game, spices, fruits, incense, and other aromatics, such as frankincense. I can't help but drool and want over all the wares displayed. That is the imagery I get from wearing this bad boy. A manly man's oud, but obviously any Hindi oud lover could appreciate it.
The oil has good projection and very good longevity. Really like it. Thanks Zak!
Oriscent/Ensar Oud
Cambodi black-
This unique Oudh was totally different from the standard Cambodi which we are used too. The sweet, honey like notes are not vividly apparent at first but rather something else hits you. I would say something of leather. Not any cheap leather but some of the highest quality possible.
The other notes which I picked up are something of Hindi Oudh. Not the traditional barnyard notes which are offensive to some but rather very soothing and calming. The Cambodi aspect of it is felt, in the 3rd stage. Very unique and beautiful. Not too flowery and sweet but a perfect balance of lush berries like aroma.
This Oudh is something which I would say, is common in the Arab world but it's not, in the way of this oudh being so pure and elegant.
What a beautiful mixture of leather and sweet like aroma.
Truly a beautiful Oudh from top to bottom.
Cambodi black-
This unique Oudh was totally different from the standard Cambodi which we are used too. The sweet, honey like notes are not vividly apparent at first but rather something else hits you. I would say something of leather. Not any cheap leather but some of the highest quality possible.
The other notes which I picked up are something of Hindi Oudh. Not the traditional barnyard notes which are offensive to some but rather very soothing and calming. The Cambodi aspect of it is felt, in the 3rd stage. Very unique and beautiful. Not too flowery and sweet but a perfect balance of lush berries like aroma.
This Oudh is something which I would say, is common in the Arab world but it's not, in the way of this oudh being so pure and elegant.
What a beautiful mixture of leather and sweet like aroma.
Truly a beautiful Oudh from top to bottom.
Oriscent/Ensar Oud
Oud Idrees-
This is the first time I have tried Oud from Bhutan region. This region is located on top of Assam, India and also and also borders China. There is something from that whole region, which produces some of the best Oudhs on the planet.
If you didn't know, that this Oudh is produced from the Bhutan region you would swear its Assan Hindi Oudh. There are so many character notes that resemble Hindi Oudh and which are so close to my heart.
The opening notes are somewhat of a light leatherish material which has barnyard in it (yessss) not the fecal barnyard notes which offend people at all but rather the notes hit you so pleasantly and subtle.
The closest Oudh that resembles this Oudh is the mighty Assam Kinam. I say that because the barnyard notes are extremely vibrant and you want to keep smelling it again and again.
What would it be like sitting with Ensar and these beautiful Oudhs from these regions where they are produced and hear his impressions and thoughts?
The joy that this Oudh brings reminded me of one the greats I have and couldn't have been more happier.
Bravo for this masterpiece. A very unique special Oudh for the very special!
Oud Idrees-
This is the first time I have tried Oud from Bhutan region. This region is located on top of Assam, India and also and also borders China. There is something from that whole region, which produces some of the best Oudhs on the planet.
If you didn't know, that this Oudh is produced from the Bhutan region you would swear its Assan Hindi Oudh. There are so many character notes that resemble Hindi Oudh and which are so close to my heart.
The opening notes are somewhat of a light leatherish material which has barnyard in it (yessss) not the fecal barnyard notes which offend people at all but rather the notes hit you so pleasantly and subtle.
The closest Oudh that resembles this Oudh is the mighty Assam Kinam. I say that because the barnyard notes are extremely vibrant and you want to keep smelling it again and again.
What would it be like sitting with Ensar and these beautiful Oudhs from these regions where they are produced and hear his impressions and thoughts?
The joy that this Oudh brings reminded me of one the greats I have and couldn't have been more happier.
Bravo for this masterpiece. A very unique special Oudh for the very special!
SOTD: aqua di' alfresco.
The 100% natural insect repellent that smells terrific. However, my post is not so much about that.
In mid Delaware this evening, poised to strike the coast early and tickle the horseshoe crabs at Slaughter Beach (yes, really) with the littles.
Back from din-dins, walking from the parking lot to the hotel and amidst the cricket and avian serenade was the green.
A delicious little slice of sap, chlorophyll, hint of terra squisha, pungent plant fecundity.
No prizes for guessing where my mind lept... Green Papua. If I had a bottle with me I would have ignored the darling monsters, taken a swipe and communed with nature, that is, hung out at the side of a parking lot and huffed the plants with it.
Yes officer, I am completely sane.
A nice comfy padded room you say? Well, let's be off then.
The 100% natural insect repellent that smells terrific. However, my post is not so much about that.
In mid Delaware this evening, poised to strike the coast early and tickle the horseshoe crabs at Slaughter Beach (yes, really) with the littles.
Back from din-dins, walking from the parking lot to the hotel and amidst the cricket and avian serenade was the green.
A delicious little slice of sap, chlorophyll, hint of terra squisha, pungent plant fecundity.
No prizes for guessing where my mind lept... Green Papua. If I had a bottle with me I would have ignored the darling monsters, taken a swipe and communed with nature, that is, hung out at the side of a parking lot and huffed the plants with it.
Yes officer, I am completely sane.
A nice comfy padded room you say? Well, let's be off then.
Oriscent/Ensar Oud
Oud Isa-
This is another beautiful Hindi Oudh from the Meghalayan region.
This Oudh I would say is multi layered. The opening has somewhat of a Jayapura smell hmmm Archipelago heritage? Wow!!!
I am also getting hints of something sweet honey and jam based? like something Cambodian which doesn't stay long. How's that possible?
Ahhhh and the Indian Oudh comes to life, I would say slowly throughout the whole experience!
I picked up my Assam Kinam and did tried to find that special note and wham it's there. You have to search for it and when you do, you will definitely find it. Ahhhh what a Oudh!
To have experienced an Oudh like this which was made from probably some from ultra rare stuff is an honor!!
Oud Isa-
This is another beautiful Hindi Oudh from the Meghalayan region.
This Oudh I would say is multi layered. The opening has somewhat of a Jayapura smell hmmm Archipelago heritage? Wow!!!
I am also getting hints of something sweet honey and jam based? like something Cambodian which doesn't stay long. How's that possible?
Ahhhh and the Indian Oudh comes to life, I would say slowly throughout the whole experience!
I picked up my Assam Kinam and did tried to find that special note and wham it's there. You have to search for it and when you do, you will definitely find it. Ahhhh what a Oudh!
To have experienced an Oudh like this which was made from probably some from ultra rare stuff is an honor!!
EO Assam Organic Meghalaya
I smell the chocolate.
I smell the agarwood.
I smell the deg.
I smell the smoke/incense.
I smell the fruits.
I smell the maturity.
The barn has just enough hay, tobacco, and leather.
A little whipped cream on top.
Not overly resinous.
And just enough oudiness to go ooomph!
EO Sultan Abdüs Selam
This oil is like taking a ride on a jet plane.
First you taxi around the opening notes which is like a zip file containg a preview of all the notes compressed into one pro'file'. I need more time to come to terms with it. Then you start to take flight into an ethereal realm where the blue-green ocean is in the clouds, and the shores are of jungle river rocks. There's a hint of Sayang Kinam, and there's a background of candied fruits. Drydown, it's like Port Moresby's Caribbean cousin.
I can't go any further, I'm just too Blissed-Out
I smell the chocolate.
I smell the agarwood.
I smell the deg.
I smell the smoke/incense.
I smell the fruits.
I smell the maturity.
The barn has just enough hay, tobacco, and leather.
A little whipped cream on top.
Not overly resinous.
And just enough oudiness to go ooomph!
EO Sultan Abdüs Selam
This oil is like taking a ride on a jet plane.
First you taxi around the opening notes which is like a zip file containg a preview of all the notes compressed into one pro'file'. I need more time to come to terms with it. Then you start to take flight into an ethereal realm where the blue-green ocean is in the clouds, and the shores are of jungle river rocks. There's a hint of Sayang Kinam, and there's a background of candied fruits. Drydown, it's like Port Moresby's Caribbean cousin.
I can't go any further, I'm just too Blissed-Out