Fragrance Of The Week: Versace Pour Homme Oud Noir

By Nick Carvell 17 April 13 We don’t know if Donatella’s had a lot of business trips recently, but Versace ‘s head designer is taking the fashion house on a bit of a world tour when it comes to their scents. Having paid a scantily-clad visit to Greece with their last fragrance Eros , the brand has now landed in the Orient with the release of Oud Noir. In contrast to the bright turquoise used for Eros , the sharp-cornered smoked glass bottle is unusually understated, with only a small gold Medusa logo front and centre to keep the label heads happy. However, it reflects a whole new approach for the label – this is Versace manning up. Anchored by earthy notes of patchouli, leatherwood and, of course, rich oud wood, the scent is spiced up by saffron, cardamom and saffron. Add into the mix a splash of bitter orange, a dash of neroli and a twist of black pepper and you’re left with a scent that is smoky, warm and instantly masculine. £110 for 100ml. Available now. Exclusive to Harrods. harrods.com Taylor Scott International