WIthout getting too much into the details, let's just say I did a fair amount of research, conversing with various shop owners and studying all things oud on my recent trip to Dubai at the "fragrance souk" (the marketplace in the old part of town.) The shop owners couldn't have been more helpful educating me about this fascinating topic. I bought several different forms of ouds (e.g. pure oils/attars, wood chips, incense.) This morning I thought I'd try the more traditional, Middle Eastern way of applying an oud scent given that I wasn't going to see anyone until dinner tonight. I've already burned a few chips of this particular oud in the burner, that was given to me by a shop owner. From those first few burns I got a real good idea as to the smell and strength of this oud, and there was no real surprise from what I remembered back in that shop. To "apply" the smoke from the burning oud chip (soaked in pure oil) I waved the fabric of my shirt through the smoke for about 15 seconds. Then I cupped the smoke with my hands and basically patted it onto my head and neck. Yep... I REALLY did this today. BTW, if it's the real deal, you should be able to put your face in the smoke and it will not burn your eyes. If it's fake, it'll smell like a cigarette or worse. So the big question some will ask is; Where are the chips sourced? Lootah does not specifically say where they're sourcing some of their chips from because, like blended Scotch, their chips are generally from India, Cambodia and Indonesia, but the important thing for most Houses is the consistency of the fragrance among their various products. This one shop owner gave me some Indian oud, Vietnamese oud, Cambodian oud and others, so I can distinguish the general aromas from the various countries. However as he explained, it's more complicated than simply where it's sourced. You can have oud that is wild vs. plantation grown, sinking vs. floating, and of course there are various grades within all that. The scent profiles can be woody, earthy, animalic (sometimes down-right barnyardy), sweet, smoky, etc, with regional styles often dictating the characteristics.

I’ve sniffed it off paper and liked it, but not enough to pull the trigger - need to wear this on skin first. But this seems like an excellent deal, right?

Brothers- this has been a difficult week. My dad passed away on Tuesday, and we have his visitation and funeral tomorrow. I will be wearing a fragrance, so not wearing one isn’t an option. My question is, what type of fragrance would you choose? I’ve ever been the sentimental type when it comes to fragrances, so I don’t foresee me attaching his funeral to the fragrance forever, unless it’s something I wear just once. Let me know what you would choose.

Game day brotherhood! I’ve had some good luck on game day with this blue beast, let’s hope it brings us the W! Good luck to your boys @Steve Louis but even better luck to my Rams. We’re goin to need it in this weather. With this bright pepper, oregano, and sweet smokey baddie, it is sure to bring some power! Lasts forever and puts a cloud in any room you walk into and is one of my favorites in the collection. Have a great day brotherhood!!

Brothers, I’ve spent a good amount of time wearing different versions of YSL Y, and here’s my honest opinion on how each one feels in real life. Nothing fancy—just how they smell, wear, and fit into normal days. YSL Y Eau de Toilette (EDT) This one feels light and fresh. I mostly get apple, ginger, and a clean shower-gel vibe. It’s easy to wear and never offensive, but it doesn’t really stand out either. Performance is okay, not great. Best for: Hot weather, casual days, office wearMy thought: Nice, but a little forgettable. YSL Y Eau de Parfum (EDP) This is the version everyone talks about—and for good reason. It’s sweeter, warmer, and more masculine than the EDT. The apple and sage hit hard at first, then it dries down into something smooth and slightly spicy. It lasts a long time and gets compliments. Best for: Everyday wear, date nights, cooler weatherMy thought: This is the sweet spot of the whole line. YSL Y Parfum This one feels darker and more serious. Less fresh apple, more depth and richness. It smells smoother and more refined, but also a bit heavier. Not something I’d reach for daily. Best for: Nighttime, dressed-up situationsMy thought: Good, but a little too formal for my taste. YSL Y EDP Intense This is like the EDP with the volume turned up. Sweeter, stronger, and louder. It definitely projects more and feels more modern bold. Best for: Nights out, clubs, cold weatherMy thought: Powerful, but can be too much if you overspray. YSL Y Le Parfum This one surprised me. It’s smoother and creamier than the others, with a more blended and polished feel. Not as loud as Intense, not as fresh as EDP. Best for: Evening wear, cooler daysMy thought: Very classy, but more of a personal scent than a compliment monster. Final Thoughts: If I had to choose just one, YSL Y EDP still wins for me. It’s versatile, smells great, lasts long, and works almost anywhere. The flankers are nice depending on mood and occasion, but the original EDP feels like the most balanced and easiest to love.