La Fede Oud for Kings*

Notes & Nuances

Okay, so La Fede Oud for Kings (if that's the right name – these clone houses, right?) is aiming for Initio's Oud for Greatness. And it gets surprisingly close. The opening blast of saffron and nutmeg is there, that spicy, almost medicinal vibe. The lavender is toned down, making it less powdery than the original. The oud in the heart is definitely present, but it leans more synthetic, a bit sharper than Initio's smoother, more refined oud. Patchouli and musk in the base provide a grounding warmth. I'd say it's 85% of the way there. The main difference is that slight synthetic edge that creeps in as it dries down.

Conclusion

If you're curious about Oud for Greatness but can't justify the price tag, La Fede Oud for Kings is a decent alternative. It scratches that itch without breaking the bank. It's a good daily driver for the office or a casual night out. For most people, this clone will do just fine. Just be aware of that slight synthetic undertone.

How Long Does it Last?

Longevity is surprisingly good. I get a solid 6-7 hours on skin, with moderate projection for the first 2 hours. After that, it settles closer to the skin, creating a nice, subtle scent bubble. Not beast mode, but certainly respectable point. You'll get noticed, but you won't clear a room.