The Story
Why it exists.
The beginning
In 2021, Xerjoff's 1861 collection turned ten. Creative director Sergio Momo revived the line with Decas, marking the milestone through scent rather than spectacle. The house built its reputation on artistic bottle design and opulent presentations, treating each fragrance as an object of craft. Chris Maurice was tasked with building a chapter that honored the collection's decade-long narrative while pushing into new sensory territory.
The note structure reflects a deliberate philosophy: begin with accessible brightness, deepen through resinous complexity, and resolve into warm, enduring comfort. Mandarin and tuberose open with broad appeal. Benzoin and myrrh reward those who appreciate resinous materials. Bourbon vanilla and tolu balsam provide the longevity that marks a decade-worthy composition. Each pairing serves a purpose: tobacco balances mandarin's zest, iris elevates the resins, musk bridges vanilla and skin. The structure mirrors the collection's intent: art that endures, craft that rewards attention.
The evolution
Decas begins where much of the 1861 collection starts: with Calabrian light, the bright citrus character that has anchored previous releases. Mandarin provides that signature opening, immediate and sun-drenched. Tuberose follows, its creamy white floral presence introducing complexity. Tobacco appears beneath, a dry counterpoint that establishes the tension between brightness and depth. The heart shifts toward ceremony as benzoin and myrrh arrive, their resinous warmth creating a contemplative middle chapter. Tuscan white iris adds powdery elegance, guiding the wearer toward the final phase. Bourbon vanilla, musk, and tolu balsam complete the evolution, wrapping the wearer in warm, balsamic comfort that lingers long after application.
Cultural impact
Decas has developed a dedicated following since its launch, with wearers responding to its unusual combination of bright citrus opening and deep, resinous heart. The 1861 collection has become known for ambitious compositions that remain wearable, and Decas exemplifies that balance. Users consistently note its distinctive character within the collection, the way it pivots from approachable sweetness to something more ceremonial. The fragrance manages to feel both accessible and deeply layered, inviting those who try it to discover the complexity beneath its initial charm.
