A Fragrant Memory
Travelers often recall hotels through sensory details, and for guests of a prominent hotel group with properties in global cities like Milan, London, and Tokyo,
a particularly memorable element is the intoxicating aroma that defines its spaces. This signature scent, known as Eau Parfumée Thé Impérial, has long been an intrinsic part of the guest experience, creating an olfactory bookmark of their stay. As of April 21, 2026, this once-exclusive fragrance is no longer confined to the brand's exclusive resorts, becoming accessible for everyone to enjoy.
The Scent's Genesis
For nearly a decade, Eau Parfumée Thé Impérial was exclusively experienced within the elegant confines of the brand's hotels. This distinctive aroma was initially crafted in 2017 by master perfumer Jacques Cavallier, with its composition featuring a harmonious blend of lemon, mandarin, and bergamot, complemented by the subtle essence of tea extract. The intention behind its creation was to encapsulate the spirit of Roman living, ensuring that guests felt a sense of welcome and belonging regardless of which Bulgari property they were visiting. This olfactory connection, as noted by the brand's creative and heritage director, Amandine Pallez, serves as a powerful reminder of their travels. Pallez describes the fragrance as both fresh and citrusy, with a musky undertone, aiming to evoke a Mediterranean ambiance that is both invigorating and intriguingly complex, offering a bittersweet nuance.
Symbolism and Essence
The choice of both citrus and tea as central elements in this fragrance is rooted in their historical significance as symbols of luxury dating back to the 18th century. During that era, these ingredients were considered rare indulgences, often reserved for royalty and signifying refinement, vitality, and global connections. In Chinese culture, tea was revered as a symbol of wisdom, while in ancient Rome, citrus fruits were integral to imperial banquets and adorned sun-drenched gardens. The fragrance itself is designed to represent the confluence of these diverse worlds: the meeting of East and West, the interplay of nature and culture, and the seamless blend of tradition with innovation, as articulated by the brand.
Design and Presentation
The visual presentation of the fragrance further reinforces its luxurious identity. The distinctive bottle features an iconic indentation designed to subtly echo the curve of a woman's décolletage, while its streamlined form draws inspiration from the geometric elegance of Roman columns. The label, crafted from a creamy hemp material, is elegantly embossed with bergamot imagery. A particularly striking element is the circular cap, which immediately evokes Bulgari's renowned coin-inlaid jewelry, a hallmark of the brand. The liquid itself possesses a warm, amber-orange hue, intended to evoke the visual of tea leaves bathed in sunlight and ripe citrus fruits.
Personal Impression
Having evaluated a vast array of scents over many years in the fashion and beauty reporting sphere, Eau Parfumée Thé Impérial stands out as an exceptional creation. It manages to be rich without being overwhelming, complex yet remarkably clean, and subtly alluring. This scent is remarkably versatile, suitable for a wide range of occasions, whether you're dressed casually in jeans or adorned in elegant evening wear, making it a truly adaptable addition to any fragrance collection.
Acquiring the Scent
For those eager to experience the sophisticated aroma of Eau Parfumée Thé Impérial, it is now readily available for purchase. You can find this exquisite fragrance on the official Bulgari website, as well as in select high-end department stores. The Eau de Toilette is offered in two convenient sizes: a 75ml bottle priced at $165 and a larger 150ml bottle available for $250. Additionally, for those who wish to extend the experience, a body lotion and shower gel in the same signature scent are also offered, priced at $85 and $80 respectively.
