FRAGRANCE | M7 Oud Absolu EDP by Yves Saint Laurent: Where's the oud?

halfwhiteboy - YSL M7 Oud Absolu EDP

There's a lot of talk bemoaning the discontinuance of the original, mighty M7, that it's far more superior than what its current iteration is. I haven't smelled the original, so I have no point of comparison. But I would say that M7 Oud Absolu by Yves Saint Laurent is one gorgeous fragrance.

The bottle is cute, maybe because of its squarish dimensions that go against most vertical designs. It's elegant, however, and seeing the juice's regal color only adds to the packaging's character. The fragrance itself smells good. It's well-blended, smooth, and warm. It's formal, exuding class and sophistication, more so with its modest projection. It's perfect for a date night although I see that it can be worn to just about any occasion. I wear it to work.

A sweet citrus (mandarin orange) shines in the opening. This sweet and sour combo is beautifully executed, striking the perfect balance, so much that it isn't sharp but isn't overly sweet either. Unfortunately it's short-lived although the sweetness remains as the patchouli, who's been patiently waiting in line for his turn under the spotlight, joins in, resulting in a warm, resinous, and earthy scent that dominates the rest of the fragrance's life.

For all its beauty and elegance, I am left wondering, however, about where the oud is in M7 Oud Absolu. It's all patchouli for me and no oud. But what's in a name, right? At the end of the day, this YSL offering is pretty solid, with moderate projection and moderate to above average longevity on my skin. And it doesn't cost much. All in all, this is still a winner for me.

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