50ml
50ml
BEAUFORT LONDON
VI ET ARMIS
Eau De Parfum
Unisex
Sizes
Starting
$175
Description
Described variously as 'chaos in a bottle' and 'an alchemist's Christmas party' this addictive fragrance is a celebration of that which is smoked: lapsang souchong, heavily peated whisky, dark tobaccos, spice and opium combine to produce an intensely provocative fragrance using heavily ‘overdosed’ ingredients. Paradoxical and challenging - singular and narcotic.
Ingredients: Alcohol Denat, Parfum, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Salicylate, Cinnamal, Citral, Citronellol, Eugenol, Farnesol, Geraniol, Isoeugenol, Limonene, Linalool.
Perfumer: Julie Marlowe.
Notes
Top Notes
Cardamom
Black Pepper
Black Tea
GrapefruitMiddle Notes
Whiskey
FrankincenseOpium Flower
Red Fruits
Ylang Ylang
Base Notes
Tobacco
Birch
Oud
AmberCistus Labdanum
Caramel
Sandalwood
PatchouliAtlas Cedar
About BEAUFORT LONDON
BeauFort London is a British niche fragrance house founded by musician and writer Leo Crabtree. Inspired by Britain’s maritime history, literature, and raw natural forces, the brand is known for its dark, dramatic, and unapologetically bold perfumes. Each scent explores themes of identity, memory, and heritage, often evoking smoke, gunpowder, ink, and the sea. With its distinctive storytelling and atmospheric intensity, BeauFort London has become a cult name in avant-garde perfumery.
Perfumer
Julie Marlowe
Julie Marlowe is one of the principal perfumers behind BeauFort London, contributing to standout creations like Fathom V, Iron Duke, Tonnerre, Lignum Vitae, Vi et Armis, and Cœur de Noir. Her work is characterized by “overdosed” raw materials and bold, painterly techniques—BeauFort’s Creative Director likened her approach to “creating a huge oil painting with a large brush and a palette of bright, powerful colors”
Reviews
2.5
Below Average2 reviews
Ministry of Scent
2.5/5 • 2 reviews
Community Insights
VI ET ARMIS by BEAUFORT LONDON is renowned for its smoky, bold, and uncompromising character, frequently evoking strong reactions—either passionate admiration or clear aversion. Reviewers consistently praise its exceptional longevity, powerful projection, and uniquely complex blend of smoky tea, whiskey, and dark spices, but caution that its intensity and unconventional profile make it best suited to adventurous wearers with a taste for the dramatic.
Pros
Performance excellence: Reviewers routinely cite outstanding longevity (often 8 hours or more, sometimes far longer) and powerful projection, with a sillage that can fill a room and linger well into the next day.
Versatile appeal: While strongly recommended for cold weather and nighttime events, community members note it works surprisingly well in summer heat and for any occasion demanding a powerful statement—club nights, gothic settings, bold fashion events, and themed gatherings.
Quality composition: The smoky tea (notably Lapsang Souchong), whiskey, black pepper, birch tar, and rich tobacco are highlighted for their authenticity, high-quality blending, and striking uniqueness among boozy and smoky fragrances.
Cons
Overpowering opening: The initial blast is described as intense, sulfuric, and reminiscent of fireworks or burning matches, which some find challenging or unpleasant.
Situational drawback: Its assertive, medicinal, and dark personality can be overwhelming for work, daytime, or sensitive environments—most agree it's not an everyday fragrance for most people.
Comparisons
Similar to Bulgari Black (1998) and L'Instant de Guerlain (new packaging 2018): Compared for the tea and smoky facets, but VI ET ARMIS is notably more authentic and less rubbery or softly seductive.
Reminds reviewers of Sorcinelli UNUM LAVS and Beaufort's own Terror & Magnificence: VI ET ARMIS stands out for an 'overpowering smoke' and raw peatiness, seen as more daring and less refined than many competitors.
Vibe & Emotions
Dramatic confidence: Often associated with feelings of boldness and adventurous spirit, especially in situations calling for statement scents.
Gothic mystery: Described as gothic, mysterious, and almost macabre, evoking atmospheres akin to dark literature or fire-lit winter gatherings.
Intrigue and nostalgia: Some reviewers note a sense of historic nostalgia, likening the experience to pipe-smoke-filled British clubs or evocative scenes after fireworks, adding to its deeply atmospheric allure.
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