by Ormonde Jayne
Ormonde Elixir is a deeply woody, aromatic fragrance centered around a rich Cambodian oud that feels both animalic and velvety, with a prominent green and resinous character. It opens with bright, spicy-herbal notes of cardamom, coriander, and grass—nearly edible in their fresh-pungent quality—before settling into a lush, complex base of sandalwood, cedar, vetiver, and amber. The jasmine and violet add a quiet floral sweetness, while the oud is described as smoky, rubbery, and deeply sweet, like chocolate or cocoa, which gives the fragrance an almost edible depth. The result is a formal, unisex elixir that performs with moderate sillage and exceptional longevity, lasting deep into the day or night. It feels more aligned with Ormonde Woman than Ormonde Man—the green, woody, and floral DNA of the Woman line is heightened by the addition of oud, creating a darker, deeper, and more mysterious version of the signature. This is not a fragrant novelty; it’s a serious, textured scent that blends natural materials with quiet sophistication. It evokes dense forest interiors at dusk—mossy, misty, and deeply sensual—though some find the opening medicated or bitter. Over time, the fragrance evolves into something smoother and more integrated, with a smooth, deep drydown that feels cohesive and elegant.