This one is a proper 'oud-at-your-own-risk' fragrance, dividing opinion sharply. Some call it a masterpiece, others a mess. It's potent, challenging, and not for the faint of heart, but those who appreciate genuine oud will find something compelling here.

Defiant Noir approximates Jo Malone's cult Pomegranate Noir, one of the darkest, spiciest colognes in the brand's usually light range. It gets the peppery, resinous mood right but drops the tart pomegranate-raspberry fruit and smoky incense that give the original its distinctive, slightly gothic edge.