Burberry High Tea Review: A Modern British Aromatic
A sophisticated, unisex fragrance that reimagines the ritual of afternoon tea with a contemporary twist.
By Sofia Chen-Martinez, Fragrance Trend Analyst·
Sofia tracks the cultural pulse of perfume — what TikTok wears, what Hollywood smells like, what auction houses bid on. Based between Paris and LA.
In the world of luxury fragrances, few concepts are as quintessentially British as the ritual of afternoon tea. Burberry, a brand synonymous with British heritage and modern elegance, has captured this essence in their 2023 release, Burberry High Tea. This unisex Eau de Parfum is a masterful blend of aromatic, fresh spicy, and citrus accords, designed to evoke the warmth and sophistication of a tea ceremony. Created by perfumer Maia Lernout, High Tea is not just a scent—it's an experience, a moment of calm in a busy world. The fragrance opens with a burst of bergamot and chamomile, immediately transporting you to a sunlit garden. As it evolves, the heart reveals a unique combination of mate, lavender, and neroli, creating a green, slightly herbal floralcy that is both soothing and invigorating. The base of tonka bean, ambroxan, and incense adds a subtle warmth and depth, making it perfect for both daytime wear and intimate evenings. Burberry High Tea is a fragrance that defies gender norms, appealing to anyone who appreciates a refined, understated elegance. It's a scent for the modern individual who values tradition but isn't afraid to embrace the new. Whether you're heading to the office, enjoying a casual brunch, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, this fragrance offers a versatile and captivating experience. With its moderate longevity and soft to moderate sillage, it's a fragrance that whispers rather than shouts, leaving a lasting impression without overwhelming the senses.
The first 0-30 minutes are a bright, effervescent burst of citrus and herbal notes. Bergamot provides a zesty, slightly bitter opening, while chamomile adds a soft, apple-like sweetness. Clary sage introduces a subtle, herbaceous freshness that sets the stage for the heart.
2
Heart1-2 hrs
After about an hour, the fragrance settles into its heart. Mate, a key note, brings a green, tea-like quality that is both earthy and slightly smoky. Lavender adds a classic aromatic floralcy, while neroli contributes a delicate, orange blossom sweetness. This phase is calming and sophisticated, evoking the image of a serene tea garden.
3
Drydown4+ hrs
In the drydown, which lasts 4-6 hours, the base notes emerge. Tonka bean provides a warm, creamy sweetness with hints of vanilla and almond. Ambroxan adds a clean, musky ambience, while incense introduces a subtle, resinous depth. The overall effect is a soft, intimate scent that lingers close to the skin.
Performance Dashboard
⏱️ Longevity3.0/5
4-6 hours
📢 Projection1.0/5
intimate
💨 Sillage2.5/5
soft to moderate
When to Wear
🌸SpringBest
☀️SummerOK
🍂FallBest
❄️WinterOK
📌 daytime👕 casual💼 office📌 spring outings
Community Verdict
⭐ Overall
4.1
👃 Scent
0.0
⏱️ Longevity
0.0
💨 Sillage
0.0
💰 Value
0.0
💌 Compliment Factor4.0/5
Gets occasional compliments, especially from those who appreciate subtle, sophisticated scents.
Pros & Cons
✅ Unique tea-inspired concept with a modern twist
✅ High-quality ingredients and balanced composition
✅ Versatile for multiple seasons and occasions
✅ Unisex appeal with a refined, elegant character
❌ Moderate longevity may require reapplication
❌ Soft projection may not satisfy those who prefer stronger scents
❌ Price point is on the higher side for a designer fragrance
❌ Limited availability in some regions
Price & Value
$150-$220
Mid-range luxury for a 100ml EDP from a heritage brand
“Fair value for the quality and concept, though not a budget option.”
📜 Reformulation History
No significant batch variations reported.
Who It's For
✅ Ideal For
Fragrance enthusiasts who appreciate subtle, refined scents
Those who enjoy tea-inspired or aromatic fragrances
Individuals looking for a versatile, unisex everyday scent
Office workers who prefer a non-intrusive fragrance
Layer with a vanilla or tonka-based fragrance to enhance the sweetness of the drydown.
Combine with a light citrus scent for a brighter, more energetic opening.
🏆 Final Verdict
Burberry High Tea is a beautifully crafted, modern interpretation of a classic British ritual. Its subtle elegance and unique tea-inspired notes make it a standout choice for those who appreciate refined, understated fragrances. While its performance may not suit everyone, its charm lies in its intimate, personal nature.