by Guerlain
Cherry Oud by Guerlain presents a complex interplay of dark cherry, rich leather, and incense-like oud, layered over a soft floral base of rose. The opening is bold and medicinal, dominated by a strong oud impression that quickly settles into a deeply leathery, woodsy drydown. While the cherry note is initially bright and juicy, it fades swiftly—most users experience it only in the first 15 to 30 minutes—leaving the core of the fragrance defined by leather and oud. The rose note is present but restrained, often perceived as subtle or even absent by some wearers. The fragrance delivers exceptional longevity and moderate to strong sillage, making it highly noticeable even hours after application. It performs best on skin, where the full character unfolds, and shines most in cooler temperatures. While some perceive it more as a unisex-leaning or slightly feminine leather-oud, others describe it as deeply masculine due to its strong, smoky base. The scent stands out not for its originality but for its elegant, modern take on a classic rose-oud theme, blending honesty and sophistication. The fragrance is best suited for those who appreciate darker, more complex fragrances with strong inherent character. It appeals to lovers of leather, oud, and smoky, resinous accords—especially those who enjoy a refined, less gourmand cherry than what is common in mainstream perfumes. The cherry here is less candy-like and more syrupy and medicinal, creating a distinctive, almost medicinal-rosy-woody profile rather than a sweet fruity one. For those who prefer fresher or more overt cherry notes, this may feel underwhelming or inconsistent.