Xerjoff Torino23: A Bold Statement or a Blunder? The Truth About This Limited Edition Scent

The world of niche perfumery is often a labyrinth of exclusivity and artistic expression. Xerjoff, a brand synonymous with opulent creations, frequently ventures into limited editions, and Torino23 is one such endeavor. Launched in 2023 as a tribute to the city of Turin and the automotive heritage it represents, Torino23 arrived with considerable fanfare. Its positioning within Xerjoff's extensive portfolio leans towards the experimental and the avant-garde, often targeting collectors and enthusiasts seeking something truly unique.
The inspiration behind Torino23 is deeply rooted in the industrial elegance and historical significance of Turin, Italy. This city, a cradle of Italian automotive design and manufacturing, served as the muse. The scent aims to encapsulate the spirit of innovation, power, and refined craftsmanship associated with classic cars and the city's industrial prowess. It’s a concept that promises a departure from typical crowd-pleasing fragrances, aiming instead for a more profound olfactory narrative.
In the market, Torino23 was positioned as a high-end, limited-run release, commanding a premium price point. Its exclusivity was a key selling factor, appealing to those who desire rarity and a story behind their scent. Unlike more widely distributed Xerjoff offerings, Torino23 was intended to be a fleeting masterpiece, a collector’s item as much as a personal fragrance. This strategy amplifies its desirability among a specific segment of the luxury fragrance community.
The reputation of Torino23 within the fragrance community is somewhat divided. While some laud its bold, complex profile and unique composition, others find it challenging or perhaps too niche. It has garnered attention for its distinctive blend of notes that deviate from mainstream trends, earning praise for its artistic merit but also criticism for its potential lack of wearability for some. Its limited nature has also contributed to its mystique and desirability among collectors, making it a topic of frequent discussion on fragrance forums and social media.
The Nose Behind the Scent
Xerjoff's internal creative team, often collaborating with renowned perfumers. While specific perfumers for limited editions like Torino23 are not always publicly disclosed by Xerjoff to maintain brand mystique, their creations are typically overseen by the brand's founder, Sergio Momo, who has a keen eye for unique scent profiles. Xerjoff is known for its collaborations with perfumers like Chris Maurice and Bertrand Duchaufour on other lines.
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
The opening is a bright, zesty citrus burst dominated by Sicilian Bergamot and Italian Lemon, invigorated by the subtle warmth of Pink Pepper. It's sharp, clean, and invigorating, hinting at the refined nature of the scent.
As the citrus subsides, the heart reveals a sophisticated floral-spicy core. Rose and Jasmine offer a delicate, almost powdery sweetness, beautifully contrasted by the dry, earthy aroma of Cypriol Oil and the deep, balsamic facets of Patchouli. This phase introduces complexity and depth.
The drydown is where Torino23 truly asserts its character. A robust leather accord takes center stage, smooth yet commanding. It's supported by the marine, slightly animalic warmth of Ambergris, the damp earthiness of Oakmoss, and the sturdy foundation of Cedarwood and Musk. This phase is rich, leathery, and long-lasting, with a hint of smoky sophistication.
Performance Dashboard
Exceptional longevity, easily lasting 10-12+ hours on skin and days on clothing.
Strong projection for the first 3-4 hours, creating a noticeable scent bubble, then settles to a powerful presence.
A significant and noticeable sillage that leaves a distinct, luxurious trail without being overwhelming.
When to Wear
Community Verdict
Receives compliments, often from those who appreciate unique and mature fragrances. It's not a universally crowd-pleasing 'get compliments' scent, but it garners admiration from connoisseurs.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Exceptional longevity and performance.
- ✅ Unique and complex scent profile, a true statement fragrance.
- ✅ High-quality ingredients and masterful blending.
- ✅ Luxurious and distinctive presentation.
- ❌ Can be overpowering if over-sprayed, demanding careful application.
- ❌ The leather and oakmoss can be polarizing for some noses.
- ❌ Limited availability and high price point make it inaccessible for many.
- ❌ Not a 'safe' or universally liked scent; requires an adventurous palate.
Price & Value
“For the discerning collector or enthusiast who values rarity, artistic perfumery, and exceptional performance, the price can be justified. However, for the average consumer, the cost-to-wear ratio may be too high.”
📜 Reformulation History
As a limited edition, batch variations are less documented. However, due to the nature of natural ingredients and the production of limited runs, slight nuances between batches are possible, though significant reformulations are unlikely given its limited release window.
Who It's For
✅ Ideal For
- Men and women aged 30+
- Individuals with a sophisticated palate
- Those who appreciate bold, assertive fragrances
- Collectors and enthusiasts seeking rare scents
- People who enjoy leather and woody compositions
⚠️ Not Recommended For
- Beginners to niche perfumery
- Those who prefer light, fresh, or overtly sweet scents
- Office environments where subtlety is paramount
- Individuals sensitive to strong, complex aromas
Explore More
🔍 Similar Fragrances
Features a prominent, luxurious leather note with woody undertones.
Another iconic leather-centric fragrance with a bold and assertive character.
Offers a rich, leathery, and slightly smoky profile with a more accessible price point.
While sweeter, it shares a bold, attention-grabbing character with some leathery and woody nuances.
💡 Clone Alternatives
Often cited by users for its powerful oud and woody character, with some leathery facets, offering a fraction of the price.
While more citrus-woody, it shares a bold projection and longevity that some enthusiasts compare in terms of impact.
❤️ You May Also Enjoy
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Offers a sophisticated woody-amber base with good performance, appealing to a similar demographic.
Known for its fruity-woody-leathery profile and strong performance.
More from Xerjoff
🧪 Layering Ideas
- A simple vanilla extract or vanilla-based fragrance for warmth.
- A clean, transparent musk to soften the leather.
- A dry, woody scent like sandalwood or cedarwood to enhance the base.
🏆 Final Verdict
Xerjoff Torino23 is not for the faint of heart. It's a fragrance that commands attention, a bold declaration of luxury and individuality. If you're seeking a scent that breaks the mold, that tells a story of craftsmanship and automotive heritage, then Torino23 is an experience worth seeking out. Its unparalleled longevity and projection mean a little goes a long way, making each spray a deliberate choice. While its price and assertive character might deter some, for the true fragrance connoisseur, Torino23 represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of olfactory art. It’s a testament to Xerjoff's commitment to pushing boundaries, offering a scent that is as memorable as it is magnificent.