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Oud Maximus
by Bortnikoff
Oud Maximus is a profound, complex fragrance centered on high-quality natural oud blended with floral, musky, and sweet accords. The opening is bold and animalic, with a powerful blend of oud, civet, and citrus—this intensity can overwhelm at first, especially for sensitive noses. Over time, the perfume mellows into a refined, sweetly musky composition dominated by rose, frangipani, and vanilla, with a persistent, bitter-creamy oud base. Despite the initial skank, the fragrance is considered wearable and approachable for those familiar with real oud, leaning into a complex yet harmonious balance of oriental facets. The sillage is strong and enduring, with a distinctly long-lasting trail that establishes presence. It is particularly favored in colder months and at night, with a compelling dry-down that reviewers describe as creamy, sweet, and subtly intoxicating.
Pros
- +Composed with exceptional quality natural oud and rare floral notes, resulting in a rich, authentic olfactory experience.
- +The fragrance evolves beautifully from an intense opening to a softer, wearable dry-down rich in floral and gourmand nuances.
- +Longevity and sillage are both outstanding, remaining potent for hours with moderate to strong projection.
Cons
- −The opening phase is extremely animalic and pungent, which may be offensive to those unfamiliar with raw oud or sensitive to skank notes.
- −Strong natural oud and civet make it less suitable for beginners or conservative settings.
- −Some users find the scent flat or impersonal despite its technical excellence.