Eau de Parfum
Created in 2021

Xxx Charcoal Ermenegildo Zegna

For Men
Eau de Parfum
Year: 2021
Strong
Sillage
Very Good
Longevity
Fall
Best Season
Evening
Best For

Fragrance Story

XXX Charcoal by Ermenegildo Zegna is a Woody Spicy fragrance for men. XXX Charcoal was launched in 2021. XXX Charcoal was created by Alexis Grugeon and Firmenich.

Composition Profile

fresh spicy 100%
warm spicy 85%
mineral 70%
aromatic 60%
amber 50%
balsamic 40%
metallic 35%
conifer 30%
leather 25%
tobacco 20%

About the Perfumer

Painting That Reflects Xxx Charcoal Ermenegildo Zegna

The Demon Seated by Mikhail Vrubel

The Demon Seated by Mikhail Vrubel, 1890

This evocative painting captures the complex, mysterious aura of the fragrance. The rich textures and contemplative mood mirror the fragrance's depth and striking presence, while the bold use of color reflects its distinctive character.

Classic Song That Matches Xxx Charcoal Ermenegildo Zegna

Song album cover

"Rhapsody in Blue" by George Gershwin, 1924

Like Xxx Charcoal Ermenegildo Zegna, Gershwin's masterpiece seamlessly blends contrasting elements into a harmonious whole. The composition's elegant transitions between dynamic and serene passages mirror the fragrance's evolution on skin. Just as this scent brings together traditional and modern elements, "Rhapsody in Blue" merges classical structure with jazz improvisation, creating something sophisticated yet accessible—an auditory parallel to this fragrance's olfactory journey.

Fragrance Notes

All Notes

The complete scent profile

Graphite
Black Pepper
Saffron
elemi
Norlimbanol™
Unique Character

Xxx Charcoal Ermenegildo Zegna by Ermenegildo Zegna offers a distinctive olfactory experience that stands out from other fragrances in its category.

Artisanal Creation

Crafted with the finest ingredients and a blend of traditional and modern perfumery techniques, this fragrance represents the pinnacle of the perfumer's art.

Signature Style

Xxx Charcoal Ermenegildo Zegna embodies the distinctive style of Ermenegildo Zegna while adding a unique chapter to their fragrance portfolio.

Character Profile

Xxx Charcoal Ermenegildo Zegna is Ideal For

The Charcoal Alchemist: A Portrait of the Xxx Charcoal Ermenegildo Zegna Wearer

Archetype: The Alchemist

The wearer of Xxx Charcoal Ermenegildo Zegna is most closely aligned with the Alchemist—a seeker of transformation, refinement, and hidden depth. Like the scent itself—smoky, sophisticated, layered with leather and spice—this individual thrives in the interplay between rawness and polish. They are drawn to the process of turning the ordinary into the extraordinary, whether in their career, relationships, or personal philosophy. The Alchemist is not content with surface appearances; they crave substance, mastery, and the slow burn of evolution.

Yet, as with all archetypes, there is a shadow. The Alchemist risks becoming the Obsessive Refiner, losing themselves in endless self-improvement, or growing impatient with those who do not share their relentless pursuit of depth.

Philosophy & Values

This person believes in the alchemy of experience—that life is not merely lived but distilled. They are drawn to the idea that hardship tempers character, that friction creates brilliance. Their worldview is neither purely optimistic nor cynical; it is tempered. They respect resilience, intelligence, and self-discipline, but they also understand the necessity of instinct, of the primal undercurrent beneath polished surfaces.

Their values are rooted in authenticity through refinement—not the kind that erases flaws, but the kind that integrates them. They despise pretension, yet they demand excellence. This paradox can make them seem contradictory: they admire raw talent but have little patience for those who refuse to hone it.

Style & Aesthetic

Their style is a controlled burn—structured yet sensual, precise but never sterile. They favor tailored suits with a faint edge (perhaps a slightly undone cuff, a leather bracelet beneath the sleeve), much like Xxx Charcoal itself: formal yet darkly textured. Their wardrobe is a study in contrasts—luxe fabrics with rugged textures, sharp lines softened by lived-in details.

They are drawn to materials with history: aged leather, unfinished wood, cold steel. Their living space reflects this—minimalist but never austere, with objects that feel earned rather than merely acquired. They prefer subdued colors, but with depth—charcoal, deep burgundy, matte black—never flat, always shifting in the light.

Relationships & Social Dynamics

They are not a man of many words, but their presence is magnetic. People are drawn to their quiet intensity, their ability to listen with the weight of someone who truly sees. Their relationships are few but fiercely loyal. They do not suffer fools, but for those who earn their respect, they are unwavering.

Romantically, they are drawn to partners who match their depth—someone who understands that passion is not just about fire, but about the slow, smoldering kind that lasts. They are not prone to grand gestures, but their love is shown in acts of quiet devotion: a perfectly chosen book, a shared silence that speaks volumes.

Yet, their shadow emerges here too. Their high standards can make them distant or overly critical, expecting others to meet their exacting benchmarks. They may mistake solitude for strength, withdrawing when vulnerability is required.

Career & Lifestyle

They thrive in fields that demand both intellect and instinct—finance with a creative edge, architecture, perfumery, or even a craft like watchmaking. They are drawn to disciplines where mastery is a lifelong pursuit, where there is always another layer to uncover.

Their lifestyle is deliberate. Mornings are ritualistic—black coffee, a few pages of philosophy or poetry, a precise but unhurried routine. They move through the world with a sense of purpose, but not haste. Leisure is never idle; even relaxation is curated—a well-made cocktail, a vinyl record played in full, a hike taken not for exercise but for the clarity of solitude.

The Shadow: The Obsessive Refiner

Their greatest strength—relentless refinement—can become their flaw. In their pursuit of depth, they may over-intellectualize emotion, mistaking analysis for understanding. They may grow impatient with imperfection, including their own, leading to cycles of self-criticism. At their worst, they become the Hermit Alchemist, so consumed by their own transformation that they forget to live among others.

Yet, when balanced, they are a rare force—a person who understands that true sophistication is not about erasing roughness, but integrating it. Like Xxx Charcoal, they are a paradox: both fire and restraint, both shadow and light.

Pros

  • Exceptional longevity that lasts throughout the day
  • Complex evolution offers a rewarding sensory journey
  • Versatile enough for various occasions and seasons
  • Unique composition stands out from mainstream fragrances
  • High-quality ingredients ensure a premium experience

Cons

  • May be too intense for casual everyday wear
  • Higher price point reflects premium positioning
  • Bold projection might be overwhelming in close quarters
  • Certain notes may polarize some noses
  • Not ideal for those who prefer subtle, skin-close scents

Fictional Characters Who Would Wear This

👔

Harvey Specter

from "Suits"

Confident, polished, and always in control – this scent matches his sophisticated persona.

🕶️

James Bond

from "007 Series"

Elegant yet dangerous, with a complex character that unfolds over time, just like the fragrance.

👑

Daenerys Targaryen

from "Game of Thrones"

Commands attention with a powerful presence that balances fiery intensity and regal grace.

🧠

Sherlock Holmes

from "Sherlock Holmes"

Appreciates complexity and nuance, with a distinctive signature that's easily recognized.

💼

Miranda Priestly

from "The Devil Wears Prada"

Exudes authority and refined taste, with an unapologetic boldness that demands respect.