Patchouli by Ajmal

One of the fragrances that has most impacted me. Upon application, I thought I’d made a mistake: initially, the green, woody, and earthy notes felt unbalanced and slightly intrusive. However, within minutes it settled, balanced itself, and was dominated by a spicy scent reminiscent of incense, with sandalwood, nutmeg, and cardamomo. As it dries down, it leaves a green, earthy patchouli blended with woody oud, that persistent spicy and incense-like tone, and a creamy, slightly sweet base from vanilla, tonka, sandalwood, and musk. That final touch balances everything perfectly. Excellent quality; I love it and it’s become addictive. Performance is very good: it projects enormously at first (perhaps too much) but then remains consistent without being annoying. The longevity lasts all day. I don’t think it will appeal to young people or those new to perfumery, as it is challenging, but rather to those who know the scene, since it is far from bland. It reads more masculine than feminine. It is currently at the top of my list. I hope this has been helpful.

It’s the second in the Purely Orient collection, alongside Tonka, and for me it’s the best of them all. A modern, very masculine, potent scent with a considerable trail; it’s addictive. It’s not that exaggerated patchouli found in Profumum Roma or Jovoys, where the note goes on forever. Here it is subtle and adorned with other high-quality woods.

From what I’ve heard recently, this one has surprised me the most. If you enjoy patchouli, particularly its herbal facet, you’ll love it. The note sits in the heart but is noticeable throughout the entire evolution, paired with a well-balanced oud that is distinct yet perfectly suited to Western palates. It’s a masculine scent with excellent projection and longevity (it doesn’t fade to skin-level). It requires nothing and is sure to outperform many designer and niche fragrances. It’s one of those rare occasions where smelling it makes you want to add it to your collection immediately. Perfect for moderate climates and semi-formal or formal occasions; it’s distinctive, as they say: ‘no one will smell like you’. Suitable for day and night. Ajmal offers mid-range priced fragrances that rival expensive Western ones; try as many as you can access. There are no watery, alcoholic, or flat notes here. Ajmal has become one of my favourite houses. Best regards.

Excellent fragrance from Ajmal; I’d highlight its naturalness and performance. It opens dry, powdery and herbal, smelling of dried herbs and an autumnal breeze, with very soft animalic nuances. It takes you on a journey through the facets of patchouli: from the earthy and dry opening, through a sweet middle phase with a hint of camphor, to the dry-down which reveals a faint chocolate aroma, while always retaining that herbal character. Very well executed and one of my favourites from the Purely Orient line.