ORMONDE JAYNE
Indus

2020

lychee
nutmeg
blackcurrant

persian rose
geranium

plum
frankincense
patchouli
musk

In 2023 I’ve tried a lot of Ormonde Jayne’s (again) and Indus was one of my new favorites. I don’t think it can beat Osmanthus (Elixir) and maybe also not Ambre Royal/Royal Elixir, but especially among the more traditionally feminine leaning releases, Indus caught my attention most.

This is a very fruity take on a bright rose. It has the rose-lychee combination that’s popular in Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Satin Mood, but overall Indus is lighter. The fruitiness however, is even more pronounced, with blackcurrant in the mix. It overpowers the rose for a good bit.

The fruitiness is clear and watery, a bit soapy even, as I tend to prefer over thick and juicy. Perhaps Indus reminds me most of the pear-rose from Les Eau Primordiales Superose. The base is rather green with a lot of muskiness and slight hints of earthiness, adding some depth.

Projection is great (albeit no Oud Satin Mood), but the wear is very smooth (I think frankincense plays a part in the texture as it dries, although I don’t smell it per se). Quite a fun fragrance with just enough body and maturity to keep it within my wheelhouse.