A Modern MASTERPIECE - OUD Fragrance that Anyone Will Love - YSL M7/M7 OUD ABSOLU

Summary

In this review of Yves Saint Laurent's M7 Oud Absolute, the reviewer dives into the history and evolution of the fragrance, which was first released in 2002. Despite its initial lack of popularity, M7 gained a cult following after being discontinued and re-released in 2011. The fragrance, a blend of mandarin, oud, patchouli, labdanum, and myrrh, offers a unique, mature scent that leans woody and resinous with a hint of citrus. It's recommended for men aged 30+, particularly for cooler weather, and praised for its longevity and projection. A must-have for those starting to explore oud fragrances.

Takeaways

• 😀 M7 by Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) was released in 2002 as one of the first mainstream oud fragrances from a designer house, introducing oud to Western audiences.
• 😀 The fragrance has undergone several iterations over the years, with a re-release in 2011 under the name 'M7 Oud Absolute', and changes in bottle design and formulation.
• 😀 The original version of M7 was not initially popular but gained a cult following after its discontinuation.
• 😀 The 2011 version of M7 Oud Absolute has the same note profile as the original, despite changes in the packaging and concentration.
• 😀 The scent opens with sweet mandarin mixed with labdanum, which gives it a musky, slightly powdery quality.
• 😀 The heart of the fragrance contains oud, cedar, and guaiac wood, making it woody but not overpowering, and approachable for beginners to oud fragrances.
• 😀 The dry down features a combination of patchouli and myrrh, with myrrh giving off a subtle, mentholated effect, adding a unique twist to the fragrance.
• 😀 M7 is described as a mature, masculine scent best suited for men aged 30 and above, with a formal, sophisticated character.
• 😀 The fragrance is ideal for cooler weather, particularly spring, fall, and winter, and is not recommended for hot or warm climates due to its depth and warmth.
• 😀 The performance is impressive, with 10+ hours of longevity, about 2 hours of solid projection, and excellent sillage, lingering for up to an hour after application.

Q & A

What is the significance of M7 by Yves Saint Laurent in the fragrance world?

M7 is widely regarded as one of the first mainstream oud fragrances from a designer house. Released in 2002, it played a significant role in introducing oud to Western audiences, making it more accessible and acceptable in mainstream perfumery.

What were the key changes made to M7 after its initial release in 2002?

After its initial release, M7 was discontinued and later re-released in 2011 as 'M7 Oud Absolute' with a new bottle design, different concentration, and slightly altered notes. These changes made the fragrance more appealing to a broader audience.

Who were the perfumers behind M7, and under whose creative direction was it developed?

M7 was created by perfumers Alberto Morillas and Jacques Cavalier. At the time, Yves Saint Laurent's creative direction was under the leadership of Tom Ford.

How did the public react to M7 when it was first released in 2002?

When M7 was first released, it did not achieve the expected popularity. Many people were unfamiliar with oud, and the fragrance did not initially resonate with the general public.

What is the difference between the original M7 and the later versions released in 2011 and beyond?

The later versions of M7, such as 'M7 Oud Absolute,' have a different bottle design, a slightly altered concentration, and some modifications to the notes. However, the general scent profile remains similar to the original M7.

What are the key notes in M7 Oud Absolute, and how are they perceived?

The key notes in M7 Oud Absolute are mandarin, labdanum, oud, cedarwood, guaiac wood, patchouli, and myrrh. The fragrance opens with sweet mandarin and musky labdanum, develops into a woody oud with cedar and guaiac wood, and dries down into a deep, green patchouli with aromatic myrrh.

What kind of scent profile does M7 Oud Absolute have, and who is it suited for?

M7 Oud Absolute is a mature, formal, and masculine scent. It is best suited for individuals over 30 and is ideal for colder weather, such as spring, fall, and winter. The fragrance is deep, woody, and resinous, making it less suitable for warmer climates.

How long does M7 Oud Absolute last, and how is its projection?

M7 Oud Absolute has impressive longevity, lasting up to 10 hours on the skin. The projection is strong for the first two hours after application, and the sillage lingers in the air for 45 minutes to an hour.

What makes M7 Oud Absolute a good starting point for those new to oud fragrances?

M7 Oud Absolute offers a balanced and approachable introduction to oud, combining the richness of oud with woody and aromatic elements. It is not as overpowering or daring as some other oud fragrances, making it a good entry-level option for beginners.

What is the price of M7 Oud Absolute, and is it a good value for the money?

M7 Oud Absolute is priced around $90 for an 80ml bottle. While it is not the cheapest oud fragrance, its long-lasting power, complexity, and depth make it a good value for the price. A little goes a long way, and the bottle should last a long time.