Coda

Coda is the Parfum-strength closing chapter of the Aqualis London range, a sweet, spicy oud composed by Amandine Galliano. The brand calls it intense, glowing and fiery, and the opening bears that out: sweet red berries and blackcurrant, lifted by bergamot, with cinnamon adding a hot, almost candied spice. The heart is floral and resinous at once. Jasmine and geranium sit with patchouli, labdanum and a leathery saffron that gives the middle its dry, savoury turn. Some wearers find the whole thing richly sweet, while others hear mostly patchouli and a woody, slightly spicy oud. The base is the point of the scent. Oud is the backbone, wrapped in warm amber and musk, and it is where most of the wear happens. Wearers report that it lasts a long time, with moderate to strong projection. It is at its best in autumn and in the evening, although plenty of people wear it in spring and winter too. At 25 percent Parfum strength, a small amount goes a long way. The reaction is mixed rather than lukewarm. Most voters love or like it, and its fans call it a well balanced sweet oud that is worth seeking out. A smaller group finds it heavy, dusty and masculine. It belongs with the fruity, spicy ouds, and it is worth trying on skin before buying at its price.