Today, we delve into the intricate and fascinating realm of high-end artisanal oud oils, exemplified by the work of a dedicated distiller known as Feel Oud. Within this niche market, individuals like Russian Adam, the founder of Feel Oud, embody a deep-seated passion that transcends mere fragrance. For them, oud represents a journey marked by immense labor, meticulous attention to detail, and a fusion of artistic vision with an ancient tradition. From sourcing rare raw materials in tropical jungles to executing complex distillation processes, each bottle of oud oil tells a story of devotion. This exploration will take you through the essence of agarwood—its sourcing and challenges, the labor-intensive distillation techniques employed, and finally, the luxurious experience that the resulting oud oils offer.
The Journey of Russian Adam: A Visionary in Oud Distillation
From Strangeness to Passion
Russian Adam's relationship with oud began unexpectedly. Studying in Australia, he discovered the rich cultural tapestry of Islam and subsequently relocated to London for further studies in business management. It was during this time that he encountered traditional Arabic fragrances. However, his initial experience with oud was less than favorable. He found many of the offerings to be synthetic and far from appealing. Yet, the enigmatic nature of oud lingered in his senses, ultimately leading to an obsession. “I kept smelling it until I became completely addicted,” Adam recounts of his transformation. This addiction sparked the realization that he could not content himself with the available options; he sought a purer, more authentic experience with this captivating scent.Transitioning to Craftsmanship
Determined to create his own oud oils, Adam decided to immerse himself fully in the craft. He packed his bags for Thailand, a country rich in oud culture and resources. There, he met his business partner, Ali, and together they founded Feel Oud. The journey from casual user to passionate distiller showcases his quest for authenticity in a market saturated with imitations.Understanding Agarwood: The Heart of Oud Production
What is Agarwood?
Agarwood, known as “oud” in Arabic, is formed in the heart of the Aquilaria tree. This wood becomes aromatic when the tree undergoes a fungal infection—an event referred to as “noble rot.” Consequently, high-quality agarwood is produced, yielding oils that are highly sought after due to their unique fragrances and their rarity.Challenges in Sourcing Agarwood
The quest for premium agarwood involves navigating various difficulties. High-grade agarwood has become increasingly rare, leading to skyrocketing prices. Adam notes that quality sourcing often requires building relationships with remote forest dwellers who have the rights to harvest this precious wood. “Obtaining wild agarwood is touch and go; it requires significant connections and a keen eye for assessing quality,” Adam explains. The moment one realizes that genuine oud can take on numerous fragrance profiles shaped by geographical factors, harvesting conditions, and the degree of rot, the complexity of sourcing becomes apparent.The Illusion of Commercial Oud
Many commercial fragrances marketed as “oud” often do not contain genuine agarwood. Instead, these scents frequently involve synthetic reproductions or significantly diluted forms. Adam emphasizes that the true essence of oud cannot be replicated in synthetic forms.The Distillation Process: Crafting Liquid Gold
Preparing for Distillation
The journey from raw wood to exquisite oil begins with preparation. Adam meticulously oversees every aspect, from soaking the wood chips to distilling the oil. He believes that soaking is critical in unlocking the full aromatic potential of the wood. Various methods, including heating or cold-soaking techniques, are employed to ensure that undesirable odors do not impart themselves into the final product. “By adjusting the soaking method and maintaining optimal hygiene, we preserve the true scent of agarwood,” Adam notes.Labor-Intensive Techniques
Creating a single drop of quality oud oil is no small feat. Adam describes his first distillation adventure, which yielded a mere 2ml of oil from 500 grams of raw agarwood—worth a staggering $750 to $1000 at the time. He emphasizes that the distillation process demands constant supervision, with meticulous attention paid to temperature and pressure to avoid the unsavory “barnyard” aromas associated with poorly produced oud. “Every step, from the initial soaking of the wood to the final extraction of oil, is crucial in determining the quality of the oud,” he explains. A labor of love is an understatement; Adam and his team are fully immersed in every phase of production. His use of innovative methods and an artistic approach sets him apart from mass-production distillers.A Unique Approach to Distillation
In stark contrast to conventional methods that often result in undesirable aromas, Adam’s techniques prioritize quality over quantity. Instead of the commonly used high-pressure extraction methods, he experiments with lower pressures and meticulously controls the distillation environment to foster richer, more nuanced aromas. This artistic fashion of cooking the oud is akin to choosing fresh, high-quality ingredients in gourmet cooking to craft an exquisite dish.Exploring the Feel Oud Product Range
Feel Oud offers a diverse array of oud oils, categorizing them based on rarity and source quality.Categories of Oud Oils
- Royal Oud Oils: Epicenters of rarity and age, these oils originate from the most exceptional agarwood sources.
- Supreme Wild Oud Oils: Extracted from top-grade wild trees, these oils promise an elite olfactive experience.
- Wild Oud Oils: These oils come from various global sources, ensuring a unique scent profile shaped by its origin.
- Organic Oud Oils: Derived from sustainable sources, this category offers a more accessible option without sacrificing quality.
- Oud Blends: Infusions that combine oud with other natural elements for a unique twist on traditional oud scents.
Incorporating Sandalwood
Aside from oud, Feel Oud also distills high-quality sandalwood oils, which evoke the same artisan spirit as their oud counterparts. The connection between oud and sandalwood rests on their shared historical significance in perfumery, rendering them fundamental to many fragrance enthusiasts' collections.Pricing Insights
Understandably, the pricing for these exquisite oils reflects the intricate processes and raw materials involved. Prices can start at around $40-$60 for small quantities but can ascend to staggering heights based on rarity and production costs. Each drop holds the promise of a high-quality experience, often translating to a far richer and more fragrant experience than mass-marketed options.The Allure of Oud Oils and Why You Should Explore Them
Exploring the world of oud oils offers not just a sensory experience but also a connection to cultural heritage. The stories behind each production evoke the rich traditions of craftsmanship and highlight the dedication of artisans like Russian Adam. The intricate, labor-intensive methods put into producing these oils transform ingredients into a profound sensory expression of art. By introducing yourself to the artisanal oud oils of Feel Oud, you may discover not just a new fragrance to cherish, but also an appreciation for the world behind this aromatic gem. Anyone who has previously encountered synthetic interpretations will find a genuine depth and complexity in artisan-crafted oud, providing a paid homage to centuries of tradition and passion.What is oud?
Oud is a fragrant wood derived from the Aquilaria tree, which becomes aromatic when infected by a specific type of mold. It is highly valued for its rich, complex scent in perfumery.
Why is high-quality oud so expensive?
High-quality oud is rare due to the specific growing conditions and the lengthy aging process of agarwood. The difficulty in sourcing authentic agarwood adds to its expense, along with the labor-intensive distillation methods employed by artisans.