NESHAMA
THE 9th WAVE: SANDALWOOD OUD

2022

PERFUMER
Simon Shaer

new caledonian sandalwood
oud (Chinese Yuhzi Oud)
cypriol
castoreum
cedrat
bergamot
black pepper
geranium
cedarwood
cedarwood
nutmeg
oakmoss
civet

Sandalwood Oud is a lovely, soft and interesting woody fragrance by Neshama.

To me the opening mostly smells like wood shavings that have been drying up near the sea side, kind of like driftwood. It’s kind of soft and there’s a mix of warmer, sweeter facets to the wood, with a brightness and freshness.

This fragrance contains oud and (natural) civet and castoreum, but it’s not animalic to me. It’s quite easy going, with the most ‘rugged’ element, if at all, being an earthy cypriol tinge. Instead, the woods get complimented by spices (mostly nutmeg) for a traditionally masculine leaning styling.

It feels pretty ‘clean’ given its ingredients used. Two types of cedarwood are used and to my nose, those are the predominant scent I get from Sandalwood Oud, despite its naming. Cedarwood inherently has that combination of sweetness and almost watery freshness in it at times and that shines through here.

Really pleasant blend and a true woody fragrance, not too many distractions. Perhaps a tad safe for those wanting more out of the ingredients listed. For a (tiny) bit more skank, I’d refer to my favorite from the brand, Osmanthus Floral.