Xerjoff XJ 1861 Naxos Eau de Parfum: An Honest Review

Sicily is a favorite travel destination for many people, attracted by its rich history, wonderful landscapes, local cuisine, and vibrant culture. Yet, the beauty of the Italian island is not just in its sights but also in its scents. One fragrance with the ability transport you to the heart of Sicily is Xerjoff’s Naxos. In this review, we’ll discuss what this bright and brilliant scent has to offer.

What we love most about Naxos is its bold opening. A burst of honey creates a rich, almost 3D effect, with hints of tonka, vanilla, and tobacco. In the background, a subtle note of cinnamon adds a nostalgic seaside touch, bringing depth and balance to the fragrance.

Naxos is a versatile, crowd-pleasing scent. The balance between honey, cinnamon, tobacco, Tonka, and vanilla is impressive, with honey—a challenging note to perfect—being handled pleasantly. It’s not the most realistic honey note, but it’s enjoyable: sweet without being sticky, more of a honey-like sweetness than the scent of honey straight from the jar. This touch adds a bright, golden layer to the fragrance, working seamlessly with the neutral tobacco note, which is neither smoky nor dirty.

Each note is well-balanced, making the fragrance broadly appealing, and it’s no surprise that it’s popular among those new to niche perfumes. 

What Are The Notes of Xerjoff Naxos?

Xerjoff XJ 1861 Naxos Eau de Parfum is a rich, aromatic fragrance that pays homage to traditional Italian scents while adding a modern, luxurious touch. It opens with vibrant top notes of lavender, bergamot, and lemon, creating a fresh and invigorating introduction. This brightness deepens into the heart of the fragrance, where warm, spicy notes of cinnamon and honey blend with the softness of cashmeran and the floral hint of jasmine sambac. The base notes reveal a sensual, smoky depth, as earthy tobacco leaf intertwines with creamy vanilla and tonka bean, creating a lasting, sophisticated warmth. The result is a complex and elegant fragrance that balances freshness with a deep, comforting richness, making it a timeless scent.

What Does Naxos Smell Like?

Naxos embodies an aromatic journey that seamlessly transitions from fresh citrus to rich, gourmand elements. Initially, the bright citrus notes energize the senses, followed by the warm and slightly spicy heart, which evokes a sense of coziness. The tobacco and vanilla in the base create a smooth, luxurious finish that lingers on the skin. Overall, Naxos is characterized by its ability to blend fresh and sweet notes with a hint of smokiness, resulting in a fragrance that feels both uplifting and indulgent.

Similar Fragrances

If you enjoy Naxos, you might also appreciate fragrances such as Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille, which offers a similarly rich tobacco and vanilla experience, or Creed Aventus, known for its fresh and fruity top notes paired with a smoky base. Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s Grand Soir also shares a warm, resinous profile that complements Naxos, providing a luxurious and opulent experience.

The Story Behind the Product

Xerjoff’s XJ 1861, captures the spirit of Italian heritage. Originally created to celebrate 150 years of Italy’s unification, each fragrance in this line tells a story of Italy’s poets, explorers, and timeless romanticism. With notes inspired by sunlit citrus and Italy’s outdoor lifestyle, these scents take you on a journey through Italian history and culture. The XJ 1861 collection is a tribute to Italy’s elegance and charm, reflecting the country’s rich traditions and refined beauty.

The Bottle

The design of the Naxos bottle is a testament to Xerjoff’s commitment to luxury and elegance. The bottle is crafted from high-quality glass with a distinctive silhouette that exudes sophistication. 

The current design of the Xerjoff Naxos bottle features a striking white bottle adorned with gold accents. This shift to a lighter design reflects the luxurious nature of the fragrance while showcasing its elegant aesthetics. Previously, Naxos was presented in a darker bottle, but this new look emphasizes the fragrance’s bright and fresh character, aligning with its Mediterranean inspiration.

The overall aesthetic is both modern and timeless, making it a striking addition to any fragrance collection.

The Brand: Xerjoff

Xerjoff is a luxury fragrance brand based in Italy, renowned for its artisanal approach to perfumery. Founded in 2003 by Sergio Momo, Xerjoff focuses on high-quality ingredients and great craftsmanship, creating fragrances that are not only exquisite but also tell a story. The brand draws inspiration from various cultures and historical contexts, resulting in unique, opulent scents that are highly sought after by fragrance aficionados. Xerjoff is committed to sustainability, often using natural and ethically sourced ingredients in their creations.

The Perfumer Behind Xerjoff Naxos: Christian Carbonnel

Xerjoff Naxos is crafted by the talented perfumer Christian Carbonnel, who is known for creating fragrances that blend traditional elements with modern nuances. With a rich background in perfumery, Carbonnel’s approach to Naxos reflects his ability to weave complex scent narratives that evoke strong emotions and memories. His skillful balance of aromatic ingredients results in a fragrance that not only captures the essence of Sicily but also resonates with contemporary olfactory trends. This makes Naxos a standout within the Xerjoff lineup, showcasing Carbonnel’s artistry in combining elegance with depth

FAQ’s About Xerjoff Naxos

How long does Naxos last?

Xerjoff Naxos is renowned for its impressive longevity, lasting between 8 to 10 hours on the skin. The fragrance has a strong sillage, meaning it projects well, allowing those around you to enjoy its amazing scent. The rich base notes contribute significantly to its staying power, ensuring that the fragrance evolves beautifully throughout the day without becoming overpowering.

Is Xerjoff Naxos good for men?

Absolutely! Xerjoff Naxos is designed to be a unisex fragrance, but it leans towards a masculine profile due to its bold and robust notes, particularly the tobacco and woodsy elements. Its warm, spicy character makes it an excellent choice for men who appreciate rich, sophisticated scents. The balance of sweet and smoky notes appeals to those seeking a distinctive fragrance that stands out.

Can a woman wear Naxos?

Yes, women can certainly wear Naxos! The fragrance’s gourmand and floral notes make it versatile enough for anyone who enjoys a complex scent profile. Women who appreciate deep, warm fragrances with a touch of sweetness will find Naxos to be a delightful option. The blend of honey, lavender, and vanilla can be incredibly appealing, offering a uniquely feminine touch while retaining its unisex nature.

Is Naxos a summer or winter fragrance?

While Naxos features bright citrus notes that can be refreshing in warmer weather, its depth and warmth make it more suitable for fall and winter wear. The rich base notes of tobacco and vanilla add a cozy element that feels particularly inviting during cooler months. However, its versatility allows for year-round use, especially in transitional seasons.

Is Naxos a gourmand?

Yes, Xerjoff Naxos can be classified as a gourmand fragrance due to its prominent sweet notes, particularly honey and vanilla. Gourmand fragrances often include edible or dessert-like qualities, and Naxos embodies this with its rich, sweetheart and base notes. The combination of sweet and warm elements creates an indulgent olfactory experience that is both comforting and luxurious.

How Many Sprays Should You Apply?

For optimal performance, 2-3 sprays of Xerjoff Naxos are perfect. Given its potency, there’s no need to overapply such a powerful fragrance. A couple of sprays—one on each side of your neck and one behind your head—will create an excellent sillage. If desired, you can add a few extra sprays on pulse points, but keep in mind that Naxos’ strong projection ensures that everyone will notice it without needing much.