Last month, my brother got an alluring fragrance, Groove Xcape Xerjoff, from his boss at his anniversary party.
He was super excited after using this gem for the first time, and now he wanted to have some alternatives to this expensive masterpiece to keep in his collection.
However, as a perfume enthusiast, I started on a mission to help him find the dupes of Groove Xcape and ended up finding some best substitutes.
Is that what you want, too? Then keep reading!
What Does Groove Xcape Xerjoff Smell Like?
Groove Xcape by Xerjoff has a fusion of sizzling, spicy pepper, and ginger with the exotic aroma of cardamom and elemi. As it evolves, it becomes resinous and smokey, where rose injects a perfect romantic touch. The ending feels more earthy, which gives the cologne a strong backbone.
Have a look at the note pyramid of Groove Xcape Xerjoff before moving to the detailed section:
Top Notes: Pepper, Cardamom, Elemi, and Ginger
Middle Notes: Myrrh, Incense, Rose and Mimosa
Base Notes: Cedar, Labdanum, Benzoin and Patchouli
Groove Xcape opens with a distinct spicy, aromatic cardamom, along with the bold, fiery pepper and ginger. Here, the balsamic undertone of elemi smooths the initial spicy kick flawlessly.
As time passes, the spicy opening gets away to a dark, smokey hint of incense while the myrrh deepens the resinous accord with its mystical aroma.
At this phase, you’ll also detect a powdery sweet twist from the rose and a delicate, honey-like floral touch of mimosa.
When it comes to dry down, the fragrance takes a remarkable turn to the sweet, woody side. However, benzoin keeps the sweetness intact, and patchouli gives an earthy-musky warmth to it.
After a few moments, cedar enters, playing a prominent part with its clear, woodsy notes. Also, labdanum adds a resinous touch to the base. Its leathery, sweet scent lingers on the skin for long hours.
This cologne is perfect as it offers an elegant touch to the wearer. With its excellent trail and performance, you don’t have to think about reapplication.
What Are The Colognes Similar To Groove Xcape Xerjoff?
Finding the best clone is not a child’s play. Before entering the deep search, you’ll have to keep many things in mind, like the original fragrance’s sillage, longevity, price, and so on.
So, I researched and sniffed each of the dupes separately and selected the closest match to Groove Xcape by Xerjoff.
Let’s check out the 7 replacements of Groove Xcape Xerjoff:
1. Groove Xcape KDJ Inspired
Top Notes: Pepper, Cardamom, Elemi, and Ginger
Middle Notes: Myrrh, Incense, Rose and Mimosa
Base Notes: Cedar, Labdanum, Benzoin and Patchouli
The first alternative on my list is an exact clone of the OG Groove Xcape that is formulated by KDJ Inspired.
Like the Groove Xcape Xerjoff, it also has similar ingredients and composition in every layer. This makes it one of the best dupes in the market at a very affordable price.
You’ll get the perfect spiciness of pepper, cardamom, and elemi at the top, which will ensure a warm and comfortable opening for a winter morning.
Moving to the core, the aroma settles to a delightful floral ambiance of rose and mimosa. Also, the incense joins with a smokey church-like smell and makes the air somewhat celestial!
Even having the same ingredients, I think the base in this composition is less smooth at first. The woody balance of cedar is missing here.
But as it settles more, you’ll feel it has the same warm, resinous, sweet vibe perceived from the labdanum, benzoin, and patchouli.
Soon after, I found this inspired cologne. I ordered it for my brother as it comes with a very low price tag. So, to get a similar elegant vibe with great longevity, you should definitely check it out.
When to Wear
This replica of Groove Xcape is a perfect option for winter/fall. Store it for the colder season, as it shines best during that time. Also, to enjoy its head-turning aura, wear it at night parties or special dates.
Why Should You Buy
- Closest replica of the OG Groove Xcape.
- Smells elegant.
- Inexpensive.
- 12 hours longevity.
- Great sillage.
- Perfect winter fragrance.
2. Honour Man Amouage
Top Notes: Pink Pepper and Pepper
Middle Notes: Geranium, Elemi and Nutmeg
Base Notes: Incense, Vetiver, Virginia Cedar, Musk, Tonka Bean, and Patchouli
Honour Man by Amouage was launched in 2011, and the hype of this cologne still persists in the market. After trying it 2 or 3 times, I felt this could be a good alternative to Groove Xcape.
Opening with a zesty, sharp tone of pink pepper and black pepper, the aroma gets more pleasing in the chilly weather.
In the next transition, geranium and elemi merge with their subtle floral sensation and a balsamic-lemony hint. Then comes the aromatic, spicy tone of nutmeg, which will definitely uplift your mood in a flash.
Finally, the cologne dries down with a smokey, divine aura of incense, dry yet earthy vetiver, and Virginia cedar.
Instead of benzoin, the nutty gourmand tonka bean plays the sweet part here, mingling with exotic earthy patchouli in the base.
It works wonderfully on my skin by leaving a sweet-spicy trail and lasts over 10 hours. Also, it gives a room-filling aroma that surely enchants the people around you.
I really love to smell this cologne on my man, so if you like its addictive aura, try some colognes similar to Amouage Honour Man, which are budget-friendly and available in the market. You’ll love the outcome.
When to Wear
Honour Man by Amouage is a top pick for any kind of formal meeting presentation. It offers a classy and unique outlook, boosting your self-confidence.
You can wear this during mid-summer or spring days, but avoid using it in freezing cold.
Why Should You Buy
- Spicy-woody aroma.
- Splendid masculine vibe.
- Perfect formal wear.
- Excellent sillage and projection.
- Eternal longevity.
3. XJ 1861 Zefiro Xerjoff
Top Notes: Elemi Resin, Artemisia, White Wine and Bergamot
Middle Notes: Cardamom, Cinnamon, Carnation and Iris
Base Notes: Incense, Woodsy Notes, Amber and Honey
Some people really love to get good compliments for their fragrance. If you are one of them, then this expensive flacon of XJ 1861 Zefiro Xerjoff is a top-notch pick for you.
At the first sniff, the unisex perfume opens with a captivating, refreshing aroma of sparkling bergamot and herbaceous, bitter artemisia.
The intoxicating, boozy white wine leaves a seductive vibe mixing with resinous elemi, at the same time preparing you for the next phase.
In the middle, you’ll sense the warm cardamom, powdery iris, and slightly sweet cinnamon, ensuring the cologne does not become boring and monotonous till the end.
Lastly, in the base, the amber warms up, dancing with dense honey as it clings close to the skin.
Moreover, the woodsy notes and mystic incense intensify the aura, offering a long-lasting sensual depth with a masculine hunch.
This project massively with 15 hours of longevity with just 2 pumps. My partner and I had a great experience when we wore this at one of our special events.
When to Wear
To pull great compliments during winter, fall, or spring days, the XJ 1861 Zefiro Xerjoff is a perfect one. I recommend not wearing it in an office or formal setup; rather, use it during a special outing or a friend’s hangout.
Why Should You Buy
- Addictive sensation.
- Boozy white wine collaboration.
- Warm-spicy aroma.
- Longevity for 15+ hours.
- Projects heavily.
- Compliment getter.
4. Parisian Fragrance du Bois
Top Notes: Cardamom, Grapefruit, Pink Pepper and Almond
Middle Notes: Agarwood (Oud), Rose, Geranium, Jasmine and Leather
Base Notes: Incense, Sandalwood, Labdanum, Patchouli, Amber, Oakmoss and Musk
Launched in 2016, Parisian Fragrance du Bois is one of the most premium royal fragrances. So before starting with it, prepare yourself for that.
When I sprayed this bottle, the first thing my nose detected was the nutty, fruity smell of almond and grapefruit.
Also, you’ll start to get the spicy kick of pink pepper that is beautifully balanced with the light, aromatic, spicy hint of cardamom.
In a few moments, agarwood and rich leathery accords present a different twist with the floral queen rose and fruity floral geranium in the heart. Besides, Jasmine also shows up fabulously with a mood-lifting fusion.
I was instantly carried away by this artistic divine touch of the perfumer at this phase that lasted for more than 2 hours magically.
Gradually, the fragrance transforms into a sophisticated symphony of woody, earthy, and mossy undertones of sandalwood, labdanum, and amber. This makes it best reminiscent of Groove Xcape.
When to Wear
Parisian Fragrance du Bois is a three-season fragrance for fall, winter, and spring. However, on my skin, it also projects well in summer.
Why Should You Buy
- Luxury, royal feel.
- Lasts long.
- Fresh spicy accords.
- Radiates amazingly.
- Warm-smokey base.
5. Camel Zoologist Perfumes
Top Notes: Dried Fruits, Dates, Olibanum and Rose
Middle Notes: Myrrh, Incense, Amber, Cinnamon, Cedar, Jasmine and Orange Blossom
Base Notes: Civet, Agarwood (Oud), Musk, Sandalwood, Vanilla, Vetiver and Tonka Bean
Starting with lots of dried fruit notes, sweet dates, and roses, the Camel Zoologist Perfumes feels like a delicious treat. Here, you won’t get the vibe of Groove Xcape much, but you’ll love the top.
Slowly, after 10 minutes, the show begins. The heart is full of a complex yet magnificent balance of smokey, spicy, flowery accords. From this point, I get it’s an absolute imitation of the Groove Xcape.
It surprises me how a perfumer fuses so many things seamlessly to create this unique blend.
I really found the warm, dry down of this clone amazing with woodsy sandalwood and a smooth vanillic touch. Plus, the musk leaves a powdery, sensual trail lingering on the skin.
Furthermore, just 2/3 sprays of it before moving out is enough to enjoy the whole day. As it radiates remarkably in colder seasons, the cologne is worth buying.
When to Wear
During winter and fall, you can undoubtedly rely on Camel Zoologist Perfumes. You would love to wear it to the outings or some other outdoor activity.
It’s not office-safe. So, in my opinion, don’t wear it in such kind of environment.
Why Should You Buy
- Great for colder weather.
- Deep and complex.
- Woody animalic dry down.
- Amazing blend.
- 10 to 12 hours longevity.
6. Cardinal James Heeley
Top Notes: Black Pepper, Linen, and Baie Rose
Middle Notes: Myrrh, French labdanum, and Olibanum
Base Notes: Amber, Patchouli and Vetiver
The sixth substitute of Groove Xcape Xerjoff in my list is Cardinal by James Heeley. Though it comes with a unisex label, according to me, it leans more toward masculinity.
In the first transition, the sharp, peppery note is melodiously balanced with the charming rose and underlayer purity of linen. I feel the top more like a soft cushion surrounding me with its smooth, cozy shade.
Shifting to the heart, the star ingredient, olibanum, rounds up everything, collaborating with resinous, warm labdanum and myrrh.
Although I miss the floral note in the middle, but later realized it actually brings masculinity more prominently.
As the clock runs, the smell of patchouli and ambery finish draws an incredible closing line to the aura.
For a decent outcome and intimate sensation, don’t forget to spray a little more at the back of your neck and wrist.
When to Wear
With a few sprays of Cardinal James Heeley, you’ll get an amazing experience during the fall and winter journey or family outings. Also, don’t forget to carry a decant to reapply while going out for a long time.
Why Should You Buy
- Airy and clean.
- Versatile for any occasion.
- Good price point.
- Radiates to a few feet.
- Works best in the colder season.
7. Sable Nuit Giorgio Armani
Top Notes: Olibanum and Pink Pepper
Middle Notes: Cedar, Benzoin, Labdanum and Patchouli
Base Notes: Olibanum, Vanilla and Ambroxan
Sable Nuit offers an intense, spicy, and sweet aura right from the first whiff. The sweet, woody smell of frankincense flourishes an intense start with a strike of pink pepper.
As I dug deep, benzoin and labdanum joined in the heart, giving warmth to the composition, while patchouli and cedar complimented the core with an exotic tune.
Do you love frankincense in your fragrance? Then this is the right one to meet your desire.
From the top, the presence of olibanum continues till the base. But as it collaborates with the best harmonizer vanilla in the base, I found it cheerful enough for any occasion.
Overall, I get an 8-hour backup with a lovely sillage from Sable Nuit. My best friend really loves wearing it and thinks it’s the perfect accessory for a beautiful outfit.
However, as this is one of the best-smelling Armani cologne, it comes with a hefty price tag. So, watch your wallet before purchasing.
When to Wear
From day to night, this is the best dupe of Groove Xcape to rock on your winter and fall tours. It is also spring-friendly, but to get the best performance spray accordingly during spring.
Why Should You Buy
- Sweet-spicy aroma.
- Traditional winter/fall scent.
- Good longevity.
- Unisex still male-leaning.
- Warm and cozy.
Wrap Up
Xerjoff is a pure love for the fragrance addicts. However, due to their exquisite blend, the aroma inclines to a bit pricey side.
A lot of people desire to wear Groove Xcape to smell elegant. Keeping that in mind, I tried to create a list that will offer you a similar vibe at a quarter price.
Hope I have done the job easy for you, Now it’s your move to find the one from the list.
Let me know if you have any queries. Till then, keep in touch!