Oud For Greatness Neo

I've had samples of both OFG and OFG Neo for a few months but the OFG/Haltane DNA didn't really capture me off first impressions so I didn't think of trying either until today. I remembered liking Neo considerably more than the original OFG, so I went with Neo and what a pleasant surprise it was. OFG Neo is an amazing aromatic and green oud fragrance with slight citrus and spicy touches that's very well done. The oud here is a very approachable Western oud, nothing animalic or robust like the average Middle Eastern oud fragrance. I'm sensitive to whatever musk this uses, which is the same musk in Baccarat Rouge and Town & Country, but what really surprised me was how perfectly it blended with the aromatic and citrus notes, as well as the fact that it doesn't drown out the rest of the formulation like it does (to my nose) in the MFK and Clive Christian. Another point in its favor is its versatility, being wearable for the majority of the year, you might even be able to get away with this during the summer if sprayed very carefully. I do have to recognize I'd most likely get bored of this after a few wears so I'm glad to have a 5 ml sample, that'll be more than enough juice for me. I'll be giving the original OFG a wear tomorrow to compare.

The fragrance opens with an intriguing combination of balsamic green accords and subtle sweetness, accompanied by a delicate oud undertone. The balsamic freshness introduces an aromatic, almost forest-like character, while the oud provides a darker woody foundation. The result is a refined and inviting opening with an appealing balance of freshness and depth. At around 15 minutes, the fir note becomes increasingly prominent, introducing a rich, green, and slightly resinous character. The darker woodiness of the oud remains noticeable, creating an elegant contrast between the fresh, forest-like qualities of the fir and the deeper woody undertones. By 30 minutes, the fragrance continues transitioning toward a more pronounced oud-driven composition. What stands out is the exceptional smoothness of the oud, which never becomes harsh or overpowering. Instead, it delivers a beautifully balanced and sophisticated woody character that feels elegant and refined. At around 60 minutes, delicate floral accords begin to emerge, introducing a clean and refreshing undertone to the darker woody composition. The florals soften the oud, adding a subtle elegance that complements the balsamic and green elements established earlier in the wear.

I actually really don’t like oud. So why on earth did I buy this and how did I fall in love with it? I have been searching for almost a full year for a fragrance that gives off “fresh cut pine tree” or “stroll through a forest” vibes. Encre noire is too damp and gross. Soul of the forest had too much sweetness from the maple syrup. This fragrance is exactly the vibe I wanted. You do get the oud up front but this fragrance is so exceptionally well blended it almost immediately mellows out into this fir/Christmas tree scent. With just a little spice from the lavender and saffron. I even think you could get away with this in the office if you were light on the sprays. This is absolutely signature scent worthy but not blind buy worthy. And it’s available in official Initio 5ml bottles if you don’t want to commit to the big one. Plus the oud for greatness bottles are the coolest bottles ever.

Big fan of this fragrance. I am far from an oud lover but oud for greatness was surprisingly nice for me. Initio do oud very well. Super smooth and mellow yet strong . Of course this has the same DNA but the green and pine notes added make this very unique to me.The fir and lavender in this mix so well with the oud. This is something I would wear with a flannel or if I were going axe throwing lol. But in all honesty it does have some versatility . It's super high quality oud with a nice easy but noticeable note of pine and lavender just adding light depth. It is a performer too. 4 sprays had me projecting for about 4 hours. I was able to smell it on me for a solid 5 hours . Then skin scent for another 5. I could smell it on my clothes even after washing them.

I tested this today alongside the OG. It obviously resembles the original, but I think it actually resembles Halfeti even more! Especially in the late drydown, Neo has the slightly sour green oud that I get from Halfeti. The original is still pumping out that slightly spicy saffron, but after about 5 hours Neo took a sharp turn towards Halfeti. I'm thinking the cypress in halfeti and the conifer in Neo are reminding me of one another. I wouldn't call Neo 'fresh' or 'bright' as some have, although it definitely is more so than the original. I also don't believe Neo is 'metallic' at all. So far, Neo's longevity is on par with the original. First impression, this is a 'like' not a love. But it may grow on me.