2018
Valentino Noir Absolu Oud Essence
Julien RasquinetThe nose · 64 fragrances · also made Royal Oud (2011)Portrait →

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Valentino  ·  Sold as unisex

Valentino Noir Absolu Oud Essence

The intimate atmosphere of a dimly lit study, where the scent of leather-bound books and smoldering incense intertwine in the still air.

4.07182 ratingsWell loved by wearers
Scent fingerprintAll 10 accords ↓
woodyleatheroudwarm spicyfresh spicyaromatic
Valentino Noir Absolu Oud EssencePremium · $100–250
52%Similar accords, often for lessQaa'ed · Lattafa PerfumesBudget tier, under $40 · shares 5 of its 11 notes8 matches →

How it wears

From community votes · bars are each option's share
LongevityLong lasting63% say long lasting or eternal
Very weak7%
Weak7%
Moderate22%
Long lasting50%
Eternal13%
SillageModerate60% say strong or enormous
Intimate8%
Moderate32%
Strong30%
Enormous30%
Scent Profile

Composition & Character

When to Wear

🌸
Spring
☀️
Summer
🍂
Fall
❄️
Winter
🌤️
Day
🌙
Night

Who Wears It

♂
Masculine75%
⚥
Unisex23%
♀
Feminine2%
04 · DossierEdited by Scentsation Editorial

The story behind the bottle.

Scentsation editorial

Launched in 2018 by Valentino and crafted by perfumer Julien Rasquinet, Valentino Noir Absolu Oud Essence is a sophisticated Oriental Woody fragrance for both women and men. The composition centers around oud, which brings an earthy warmth and depth that’s both intriguing and captivating. Coupled with aromatic spices and leather notes, it creates a rich blend of contrasts — the sharpness of fresh spices against the smoky embrace of oud, balanced by powdery undertones that soften its intensity.

How to wear it

Apply this fragrance sparingly — it has a strong presence that builds gradually on the skin. The aromatic spices are most prominent initially but give way to the deeper notes of oud and leather over time, making it ideal for evening wear or special occasions.

Fig. 01 — Valentino Noir Absolu Oud Essence, Valentino

05 · Acquire

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Julien Rasquinet portrait
03 · The nose

Julien Rasquinet

Julien Rasquinet’s life took a decisive turn when his father met nose extraordinaire Pierre Bourdon, by accident in an airport.

64fragrances

Designer Valentino

More from the house · Italy

Valentino Noir Absolu Oud Essence07 Vetiver Dance
Try it layered

With Tauer Perfumes 07 Vetiver Dance

Adds amber, citrus and white floral; shares cedar.

Suggested from accords and notes · not yet tried by wearers

06 · The Room

What people
are saying.

4.07/ 5 · 182 ratings

Well loved by wearers: loved by 46%, disliked or hated by 14%.

Love46%
Like32%
OK8%
Dislike10%
Hate3%
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