Nose Dive: Oud and its Complexities, 9 September

Revered across cultures and increasingly central to modern perfumery, oud is far more than a dark, smoky note - it is a material of extraordinary nuance, capable of leathery dryness, inky depth, medicinal sharpness, honeyed warmth, and velvety smoothness depending on its origin and treatment.

Together, we will smell genuine oud materials up close: bases from the great oil houses, alongside natural extractions from different regions, each revealing its own character and terroir. We will also examine the key companions that shape and amplify oud’s presence - from cypriol (nagarmotha) and guaiac to the broader woody-amber architecture that supports it — exploring how perfumers construct oud accords that range from austere and animalic, polished and luminous.

These facets will be brought to life through a curated selection of oud-focused fragrances, placing each material in its creative context and tracing how oud moves between tradition and contemporary style.

Designed for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts, this intimate workshop invites curiosity, discussion, and discovery. No technical chemistry or prior perfume knowledge is required - only an interest in understanding scent more deeply, discovering new favourites, and encountering one of perfumery’s most storied materials in an entirely new light.