Oud Ishaq is a paradox in every sense of the word and, without hesitation, the finest Thai oud oil I have ever encountered. I recall Ensar telling me back in 2012 that his Thai distiller insisted that Ensar take receipt of this oil despite the high price tag and purchase it as a blind buy. Ensar was not disappointed when he heeded the distiller's advice and took delivery of the oil a few weeks later.
Crafted from wild agarwood sourced from Thailand’s Chanthaburi province—a region bordering Cambodia and not far from the legendary Koh Kong province—this is unmistakably a Thai oil. Yet, its aroma and character defy expectations, behaving more like the iconic Koh Kong Cambodi ouds renowned for their rich, redolent profiles.
What makes Oud Ishaq so extraordinary is its ability to capture the essence of a classic oud while maintaining a vibrancy that feels entirely contemporary. Although distilled relatively recently compared to the venerable Thaqeel, it offers a sensory experience that suggests a timeworn maturity. It is as though this oil was distilled decades ago, aged to perfection in a time machine, and delivered to us in the present day to savour the depth and warmth of a truly classic oud. From the very first whiff, you are enveloped by its thick, resinous aroma—a red-hued symphony pulsating with spice, musk, and ambergris, seamlessly blended to mimic the richness and refinement of the finest perfume.
Unlike aged ouds such as Thaqeel or Oud Royale 85, which exude a profound, ancient gravitas, Oud Ishaq is brimming with life and energy. It’s dynamic and vibrant, refusing to adopt the sombre stillness that comes with age. Instead, it offers a youthful exuberance, an oil that feels untamed and full of potential, with no intention of settling down anytime soon.
Oud Ishaq is not just an oil; it’s an experience. It bridges the geographical divide between Thailand and Cambodia while also transcending the boundaries of time, combining the best elements of both regions into a single, breathtakingly intricate composition. For anyone seeking an oud that captures the liveliness of youth with the artistry of tradition, Oud Ishaq is nothing short of perfection.
Origin: Chanthaburi, Thailand
Year of Distillation: 2009
The price is for a 1g High Recovery Vial
(The photo depicts the original 3g sturdy Ensar Oud bottle)