Kelantano 2023 (Premium)
Kelantano 2023 (Premium)
We call this oil Kelantano, a very clean distillation of extremely high grade wild Kelantan woods.
Year of Distillation: 2023
Aquilaria Malaccensis
Scent Profile/ Appearance:
This is a dark viscous oil. The opening notes are musky medicinal candied wood. A very subtle leathery animalic note lingers in the background, turning more into dark sesquiterpene oud resin as time passes.
Kelantan agarwood oil, sourced from the Malaysian state of Kelantan, is known for its distinctive and refined scent profile. Compared to other agarwood varieties, Kelantan agarwood is often more subtle and balanced, offering a smooth and elegant aroma. Its scent profile typically includes:
1. **Soft, Woody Base**: The woody foundation is gentle and smooth, offering a more delicate woodiness compared to the darker, more intense varieties of agarwood. It’s creamy and almost velvety, providing a refined base.
2. **Sweet and Balsamic**: A soft, sweet note runs through the oil, often compared to honey or amber. This sweetness is gentle and natural, adding warmth and balance to the woody core without being overpowering.
3. **Resinous and Smoky**: Kelantan agarwood oil has a mild resinous character with hints of smoke, though it is not as pronounced as in Cambodian or Indian agarwood. The smoke is more like a gentle, distant incense, adding a spiritual and meditative quality to the oil.
4. **Floral and Green Nuances**: Subtle floral or green hints may appear, offering a fresh, light counterpoint to the wood and smoke. These soft nuances contribute to the oil’s overall balance, making it more approachable and elegant.
5. **Earthy and Herbal Undertones**: While not as earthy as other types of agarwood, Kelantan oil carries a subtle, natural earthiness that grounds the sweetness and floral elements. It may also have faint herbal undertones, adding complexity and a touch of freshness.
6. **Mild Spiciness**: There may be a hint of spices like clove or cardamom, but these notes are generally subdued, adding depth without dominating the scent profile.
Overall, Kelantan agarwood oil is prized for its balanced and smooth character, with a delicate blend of woody, sweet, and resinous elements. Its soft floral, herbal, and smoky undertones make it an elegant and versatile oud, suitable for those who appreciate a refined yet complex fragrance.
Scent Progression
2-4-3-5-6-1
The Wood:
Wild, very high grade malaccensis woods.
The Cook:
Extremely professional distillation with minimal soak and very low temperature, results speaking for themselves.
The Cost:
We have seen much inferior oils offered at higher prices, sourcing high grade Kelantan woods and oils is neither an easy nor a straightforward task. This is a very good hardcore Kelantan smell without all the fairy tales.
Who is this oil recommended for?
Agarwood collectors who want a very neutral Malaysian oud oil. Beginners and experienced oud collectors alike