... oceanic cool, musky-spicy and fresh

Indeed, this is one the finest white Ambergris oils we've tried... no words can adequately describe its mesmerizing aroma which is rich and fulfilling. As the "White" is applied it has a slight evergreen-like cooling spicy top note that mellows to bring out the enveloping richness of Ambergris, musky, slightly damp and earthy, yet crisp and forceful. The Dhen Al Ambergris "White" has yet to find another scent like it... it is unique and rare, 'Connoisseur grade', fit for a prized collection of the finest Parfums.

WHAT DOES AMBERGRIS SMELL LIKE

Ambergris has an unusual odor which is difficult to explain to anyone who has never had the pleasure of its sensual aroma. Ambergris is often described as being musky and having a sweet earthy aroma unlike any other, or a mossy fragrance reminiscent of the damp forest floor. Depending on the quality of the ambergris there can be a great variation in the fragrance. Poor quality or fresh ambergris (which is black and sticky) is fairly offensive in fragrance. If you can imagine scented cow dung you will be on the right track. Many people expect ambergris to have a very strong or foul odour, but this is not the case. In general, lighter-coloured pieces of ambergris have a subtle, pleasant smell. The base animal (manure) odour fades as the ambergris cures. However, the white and grey varieties, in particular, possess the subtle, sweet addictive aroma that beach combing dreams are made of.

WHAT IS AMBERGRIS USED FOR

Ambergris has been used extensively historically and culturally since ancient times. The Egyptians of yesterday burned ambergris as incense, while in modern Egypt ambergris is used for scenting cigarettes. The ancient Chinese called ambergris "dragon's spittle fragrance". During the Middle Ages, Europeans used ambergris as a medication for headaches, colds, epilepsy, and other ailments. At the time of the Black Death in Europe, people believed that carrying a ball of ambergris could help prevent them from getting the plague. This was because the fragrance covered the smell of the air which was believed to be the cause of plague. Ambergris in different forms has also been used as a flavoring for food, and some people consider it an aphrodisiac, and is therefore one of the main ingredients in modern perfumery.