1872 Vetiver

The Verdict

Clive Christian 1872 Vetiver was released in 2016 as a limited-edition variation of the house's well-regarded 1872 fragrance, created by perfumer Beverley Bayne. Where the original offered a rich, buttery drydown, this version replaces that quality with a clean vetiver note while preserving the complex citrus-herbal-spice architecture that made 1872 distinctive. The fragrance has since been discontinued, adding scarcity to its appeal.

Community reception on Fragrantica and Basenotes has been respectful but measured. Reviewers appreciate the craftsmanship and complexity while debating whether the vetiver variation adds enough distinctiveness to justify its existence alongside the original. The fragrance earns genuine admiration from vetiver lovers while leaving others feeling it is a subtle refinement rather than a bold new statement.

What It Smells Like

The opening is an effervescent burst of citrus and spice. Bergamot, grapefruit, and lime provide bright, tart freshness, while cardamom, coriander, nutmeg, and black pepper add warming aromatic depth. Galbanum and rosemary contribute green, herbal sharpness. One Basenotes reviewer particularly enjoyed this phase, noting a nice creamy lemon curd quality sitting underneath the citrus-vetiver top.

The heart stage introduces a sophisticated floral-herbal blend of sage, neroli, lavender, jasmine, freesia, and French marigold. These elements weave together to create an aromatic, slightly old-fashioned character that bridges classical masculine perfumery with contemporary sensibilities.

The base is dominated by vetiver, supported by oakmoss, musk, patchouli, incense, amber, and cedar. Reviewers note that while vetiver is clearly the dominant note, it gives way to other accents like sage, rosemary, grapefruit, and cardamom, making it a complex scent that takes its time to bloom. However, one reviewer cautioned that the drydown went too far in the direction of old-school Polo, which may delight or dismay depending on your relationship with that classic.

When to Wear It

This is a versatile fragrance that works across three seasons, excelling in spring and fall when its citrus brightness and earthy depth can both express themselves. Business meetings, evening dinners, and formal occasions benefit from its refined, sophisticated character. It reads as intelligent and measured rather than flashy or attention-seeking.

Summer may push the earthy vetiver and incense notes into heaviness, making it less ideal for hot weather.

Longevity & Projection

Performance is reported as above-average, consistent with Clive Christian's reputation for well-concentrated compositions. Reviewers note the fragrance lasts a full working day on skin, with the complex note structure evolving noticeably over several hours. Projection is moderate, making it a considered, gentleman's fragrance rather than a room-filler. The slow bloom of notes means that the fragrance rewards patience, revealing different facets throughout the day.

The Community Says

Basenotes forum threads reveal nuanced opinions. One reviewer found it very close to the original 1872, understanding why it was a limited release rather than a permanent line addition. Another appreciated the replacement of the buttery drydown with a light vetiver note but felt the vetiver in itself was decent, no more. Fragrantica reviewers are more enthusiastic, with one declaring it amongst the best-smelling vetiver perfumes they own, praising the way secondary notes like sage, rosemary, and cardamom weave through the dominant vetiver. The Polo comparison appears in multiple reviews, positioning the drydown as either nostalgically appealing or uncomfortably dated depending on the reviewer's perspective.

Who Should Buy This

1872 Vetiver is for the vetiver connoisseur who appreciates the note in a complex, layered setting rather than as a standalone accord. Fans of the original Clive Christian 1872 who want to explore a variation with earthier, greener undertones will find it a worthwhile companion. Those who enjoy traditional masculine perfumery with a modern polish will appreciate its character.

Anyone expecting vetiver presented in the clean, modern style of Guerlain Vetiver or Tom Ford Grey Vetiver should know that this takes a more ornate, baroque approach with its extensive supporting cast of notes.

The Bottom Line

Clive Christian 1872 Vetiver is a well-crafted fragrance that does exactly what it promises: it takes the established 1872 framework and redirects it toward an earthy, green vetiver conclusion. The complex citrus-herbal opening and aromatic heart demonstrate genuine skill, and the vetiver base is clean and refined. Whether the variation justifies the Clive Christian price point and the hunt required to find a discontinued bottle depends entirely on how central vetiver is to your fragrance identity. For devoted fans of the note, this is a rewarding and sophisticated interpretation. For casual shoppers, more accessible vetiver options abound.