by Xerjoff
Ceylon by Xerjoff is a deeply complex, opulent oud-centric fragrance that unfolds like a slow-burning ember, blending honeyed sweetness with rich, animalic oud and earthy tea notes. The opening is bold and intense—dominated by honey, bergamot, and a sharp, slightly barnyardy oud that settles into a smooth, buttery textured heart of black tea, sandalwood, and musky amber. Over time, it develops into a warm, gourmandy-drydown with vanillic sweetness and a hint of indolic jasmine, creating a decaying-rich aroma that some describe as 'animalic' or 'fleshy'—though most agree it's elegant, not offensive. The performance is exceptional, lasting up to 12 hours with disproportionate sillage that lingers far beyond the norm, making it best suited for evening wear or cooler seasons. It is not a subtle fragrance—its presence is direct and memorable, with projections that can be overwhelming at close range. The overall effect is decadent, narcotic, and enveloping, like drifting into a warm, honeyed dream beneath a banyan tree. Its quality and depth are widely praised, but it is unequivocally not for everyone. You either fall in love or hard-leave it.