Oud Kissed Roses by The Dua Brand

Oud Kissed Roses: A Rose and Oud Love Affair

Oud Kissed Roses by The Dua Brand lives up to its evocative name, pairing the delicacy of rose with the intensity of oud. This woody oriental, launched in 2023, was created by perfumer Mahsam Raza as a scent to be enjoyed by all.

On first spray, saffron delivers a gentle spiciness, while the Bulgarian rose blooms with honeyed richness. Then oud appears, adding a smoky, leathery depth that gives the fragrance a dark and alluring twist.

The composition revolves around a series of contrasts. Rose and oud may seem like opposites, but here they work in harmony, creating a scent that feels both luxurious and grounded. The rose is prominent, yet never shrill, while the oud provides a firm, resinous backbone.

Cacao is a clever addition, its subtle bitterness tempering the sweetness of the rose. Musk rounds off the base with a soft, clean finish. The result is a fragrance that feels polished, yet has enough edge to keep things interesting.

Officially, the brand highlights a range of accords including warm spice, rose, oud, musk, cacao, powdery, metallic, leather, tobacco and sweet. This broad palette explains why the scent can be read in different ways: romantic one moment, rebellious the next.

Details of the full pyramids are scarce, but the ingredients tell a clear story. Saffron opens, rose takes centre stage, and oud grounds everything. The metallic nuance gives it a contemporary feel, ensuring it does not come across as a dated oriental.

This is a scent for the cooler months, when its warmth can truly shine. That said, it also works well in an office environment. Its unisex nature makes it a great option for couples to share, though it will evolve differently on each person's skin.

Suitable for rose lovers seeking something with more depth, and for those curious about oud but not wanting an overpowering or overly smoky scent.

In summary, Oud Kissed Roses is a skilfully crafted woody oriental that delivers exactly what its name suggests. With its balanced blend of rose, oud and cacao, it is a versatile and distinctive fragrance. Highly recommended for those who enjoy a scent that is both elegant and edgy.