Kayf

Kayf is a rich oriental that moves slowly and rewards patience. The title is an Arabic word for a calm, unhurried state, and the scent is paced to match. The first minutes are unusual. Green apple and basil add a crisp, herbal brightness, while incense and leather bring smoke and a worn, supple darkness. The contrast is sharp but short. The heart turns floral and dry. Bulgarian rose is the centre, velvety and full. Italian orris root gives a powdery, cool, buttery softness, coriander adds a citrusy spice and Virginian cedarwood gives a clean wooden backbone. The base is the longest and richest part. Tobacco leaf and oud lead, amber and sandalwood add resin and cream, and Madagascar vanilla and musk blend everything into a warm, smooth glow. As an extrait it is dense and long-lasting, so a light hand is enough. It suits cold weather, evenings and slow, dressed-up occasions. It works for any gender. Oakcha no longer sells Kayf (its page has been removed from oakcha.com), and this page records it for owners. Bottom line: a smoky, rosy tobacco and oud scent with a vanilla finish.