Let me emphasise—finding wild Laotian oud oils today is virtually impossible, let alone one aged for 30 years. I saw this firsthand back in 2012 when I reached out to a contact in Laos to get a sense of the availability. While he generously invited me to visit, he was honest in saying that the best we might find were the occasional scraps of wood. This reality makes Laos 95 all the more extraordinary—a rare gem born from a moment in time that simply cannot be recreated. An oil like this will likely never come around again in our lifetimes.
Laos 95 is not just an oud oil; it’s a piece of history and a deeply personal chapter in Zak’s journey into the world of artisanal fragrances. Nearly eight years ago, this exceptional oil became one of Zak’s first releases under his Agarwood Assam brand, later renamed Assam Aromas. Its debut on the Ouddict Artisanal Oud Community was a defining moment, introducing Zak’s work to a passionate audience and setting the stage for his emergence as a leading figure in the world of oud.
What makes Laos 95 truly extraordinary is its rich backstory. Originally in the possession of one of Zak’s relatives or close contacts since 1995, the oil was lovingly preserved for decades. It was eventually sold to Zak to help fund the seller’s Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca—a sacred and meaningful connection that adds a profound spiritual layer to its legacy.
As for the scent itself, Laos 95 is nothing short of breathtaking. From the moment you first experience it, the vintage character shines through. The opening is reminiscent of aged liquor—deep, rich, and refined—drawing parallels to the drydown of the iconic Oud Royale 1985. There’s a distinctive mineral quality that evokes the imagery of wet rocks and damp earth inside a mildly musty cave, hidden deep within a lush, rain-soaked jungle.
As the oil develops, a delicate sweetness begins to emerge, like the aroma of dried fruits gently infused with a touch of smoke. It’s a harmonious blend of earthy richness and subtle elegance, capturing the timeless allure of aged oud while maintaining its own unique identity.
Laos 95 wasn’t just an introduction to Zak’s craftsmanship; it marked the beginning of a legacy. Its initial release through the Ouddict Artisanal Oud Community established Zak as a rising talent, paving the way for the celebrated creations of Dixit & Zak Fragrances. This oil holds a special place in the history of oud, both as a symbol of Zak’s beginnings and as a testament to the enduring power of artisanal perfumery.
For those lucky enough to experience Laos 95, it’s more than just a fragrance—it’s a journey into the heart of tradition and spirituality. This oil connects you to a sacred past, the roots of Zak’s artistry, and the timeless beauty of oud itself.
Note: Please note that if the oil level in the photo of the bottle appears to be below the originally supplied quantity, this is due to decants for previous customers and not due to usage.
The price is for a 1g High Recovery Vial - only one bottle available
(The photo depicts the original 3g sturdy Agarwood Assam bottle)