Overview

• Release Year: 2021
• Perfumer: Chris Maurice
• Olfactory Family: Amber Citrus
• Concept: Part of Xerjoff’s "Velvet Collection," Symphonium is an indulgent, gourmand fragrance that blends zesty freshness with a rich, chocolatey heart. It is a symphony of contrasts—vibrant citrus juxtaposed against creamy, decadent sweetness.

Key Notes

• Top Notes: Mandarin Orange, Orange
• Heart Notes: Indian Cardamom, Chocolate
• Base Notes: Madagascar Vanilla, Laos Oud, Musk

Fragrance Breakdown

1. Opening:

   • Symphonium greets you with a burst of bright, juicy mandarin orange paired with the sweet zestiness of orange. This opening is fresh and energizing, offering a vibrant citrus sparkle that immediately captivates.
   • The citrus feels refined, not overly sharp or acidic, and hints at the gourmand richness to come.

2. Heart:

   • The transition into the heart introduces a luscious wave of chocolate, which is smooth, creamy, and slightly dark. Indian cardamom adds a spicy kick, giving the composition an exotic warmth.
   • The interplay between the chocolate and spices creates a deliciously gourmand yet sophisticated middle phase, making it feel luxurious rather than cloying.

3. Dry Down:

   • As the fragrance settles, the base unveils an opulent mix of Madagascar vanilla and Laos oud. The vanilla is sweet and creamy, complementing the lingering chocolate, while the oud introduces a subtle woody depth.
   • Musk adds a soft, skin-like warmth, rounding out the composition. The dry-down is rich, sensual, and enveloping, with a perfect balance of sweetness and woodiness.

Performance

• Longevity: Exceptional; lasts 10-12 hours on the skin and even longer on clothing.
• Projection: Strong; creates a noticeable scent bubble for the first few hours.
• Sillage: High; leaves a rich, gourmand trail that turns heads.

Occasion

• Best for: Evening wear, special occasions, or any setting where you want to make an impression. This is a statement fragrance.
• Season: Ideal for fall and winter, though it can work in cooler spring evenings.

Personality

Symphonium is for someone who enjoys making a bold, luxurious statement. It’s indulgent, charismatic, and unapologetically opulent. The gourmand facets give it a playful edge, while the oud and spices lend an air of sophistication.

Pros

• Unique and luxurious blend of citrus, chocolate, and oud.
• Incredible performance with excellent longevity and projection.
• Perfectly balanced sweetness that avoids being overly gourmand.

Cons

• The richness and sweetness may feel overwhelming in hot weather.
• The oud, while subtle, might not appeal to those unaccustomed to this note.
• Premium pricing, typical for Xerjoff, may limit accessibility.

Comparison

If you enjoy Symphonium, you might also like:

• Tom Ford - Noir de Noir: For a similarly dark and gourmand floral composition.
• Zerjoff - Italica: For a sweeter, milkier gourmand experience.
• Initio - Side Effect: For a spicy and sweet tobacco-infused alternative.

Overall Rating

• Scent: 9.5/10 - A masterful balance of freshness, sweetness, and opulence.
• Performance: 10/10 - Excellent longevity and projection.
• Versatility: 7.5/10 - Best for cooler weather and special occasions.
• Value: 8/10 - High price point, but justifiable for fans of Xerjoff’s craftsmanship.

Symphonium is a decadent masterpiece that combines the brightness of citrus with the richness of chocolate and oud. It’s a fragrance that feels like a luxurious dessert served in an exotic palace—perfect for anyone who loves gourmand fragrances with a touch of refinement and complexity.