Ghroob

I’m lucky enough to have the original ‘Ghroob’ in the ornate bottle. It came in a heavy wooden presentation case with a plush red velvet lining. You’d see this exotic, Arabic style bottle on show in the Arabian Oud store in London’s Oxford street, and (to me) it became a synonymous icon of the brand. Sadly, this 75ml bottle is now discontinued (so if you have one, cherish it and if one comes up for sale, get it!) But Arabian Oud are still offering ‘Ghroob’ as a decanted loose oil at 12ml for £70.

The aroma from this rich, syrup coloured oil is simply divine. This is honey drizzled almonds with orange blossom, on a creamy base of sandalwood and musk. The orange, cinnamon, saffron and amber, ripple together their sunset-coloured sweet spices like a vibrant Middle eastern market. Don’t expect any detectable oud, smoke, incense or darkness. Nor is it one of these done-to-death vanilla-cinnamon Christmas spice fragrances - this is sweet but sensual, and only slightly gourmand. It does have a slight Madeira cake accord from the almond/orange warmth but it’s comforting and so very delicious.

‘Ghroob’ gives you a hug, since it’s so soft, warm, cosy and oh-so smooth. It’s excellently balanced, unisex and long lasting. I’d even use this as a base layer to make your signature scent more alluring and last longer.

If the sunset had a scent, it would smell like ‘Ghroob’. It makes it into my treasured favourites list.

TOP - Saffron, Orange Blossom, Agarwood (Oud), Cinnamon

MIDDLE - Gardenia, Bulgarian Rose, Jasmine

BASE - Sandalwood, White Amber, Cambodian Oud, Musk