Earl Grey Tea: Origin, Benefits, and How to Prepare It Perfectly

Earl Grey is probably the most recognizable black tea in the world. Its distinctive citrus note comes from a very specific essential oil: bergamot. Here is its history, the role of bergamot, its benefits, its variations, and the preparation method to bring out its best. The Origin of Earl Grey Earl Grey is named after Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey and British Prime Minister from 1830 to 1834. Legend has it that a Chinese diplomat offered him this bergamot-flavored tea in gratitude for a service rendered. The story is likely embellished, but the blend has borne his name since the 19th century. Earl Grey tea traditionally consists of a black tea, often Ceylon or a blend of Indian and Chinese black teas, flavored with bergamot essential oil, a variety of citrus fruit native to Calabria, Italy. It is this oil that gives Earl Grey its unique floral and citrus aroma. The Role of Bergamot Bergamot is a citrus fruit grown almost exclusively in Calabria, southern Italy. It is not a fruit to be eaten; its flesh is too acidic and bitter. However, the essential oil extracted from its peel is extremely fragrant, at once floral, citrusy, and slightly spicy. In a quality Earl Grey, this oil is sprayed onto black tea leaves and then left to infuse. Lower-quality blends use synthetic flavors, which are harsher and less refined. The quality of the bergamot therefore makes all the difference between a subtle Earl Grey and an artificially flavored tea. Variations of Earl Grey Earl Grey has given rise to a whole family of teas. Earl Grey Cream adds a vanilla note that softens the citrus. Earl Grey French, or French Earl Grey, incorporates flower petals and sometimes fruity notes. There are also decaffeinated versions and Earl Greys based on green tea, which are lighter and more vegetal. This aromatization approach links Earl Grey to other processed teas, first among them chai, a black tea enriched with spices. In both cases, a black tea base serves as a backdrop for a constructed aromatic profile. The Benefits of Earl Grey Earl Grey inherits the benefits of the black tea it is based on: antioxidants, cardiovascular support thanks to theaflavins, and a stimulating effect due to caffeine. These effects and composition are detailed in the benefits and composition of black tea. To this are added the properties of bergamot. Its essential oil contains flavonoids, such as bergamottin, which have shown positive effects on cholesterol. Bergamot also has an aromatherapy dimension: its scent is soothing and can help reduce stress. That said, these effects are concentrated in the essential oil rather than in the flavored tea. Drinking Earl Grey primarily provides the benefits of black tea with added aromatic pleasure. Caffeine in Earl Grey Earl Grey contains as much caffeine as classic black tea, between 40 and 70 mg per cup depending on the infusion time. It is a stimulating tea, best consumed in the morning or early afternoon. For bergamot lovers who want to avoid caffeine in the evening, some brands offer decaffeinated versions that retain the characteristic aroma. How to Prepare Earl Grey Earl Grey is particular about temperature. If the water is too hot, it degrades the bergamot essential oil and brings out the bitterness of the black tea. If it's too cool, the tea doesn't release enough of its aromas. Use 5g of tea per 200ml of water at 90 or 95°C, not boiling. Infuse for 3 to 4 minutes for a balanced tea, up to 5 minutes for a stronger tea. Beyond that, the astringency of the tannins becomes unpleasant. Earl Grey is traditionally drunk plain or with a cloud of milk. Sugar is less common. A slice of lemon is sometimes added, but this is more of an Anglo-Saxon custom than a French one. Earl Grey in the World of Teas Earl Grey holds a special place: it is a flavored black tea, which distinguishes it from pure black teas like Assam or Darjeeling. Its floral elegance often attracts the same enthusiasts as fine and fragrant teas. Those who appreciate this aromatic sophistication often find an echo on the Japanese side, with a different but equally constructed complexity. To choose between a morning Earl Grey, an energizing matcha, or a milder tea in the evening, it is useful to know which tea to choose according to your desires. Frequently Asked Questions About Earl Grey Where does the name Earl Grey come from? From Charles Grey, the 19th-century British Prime Minister. According to legend, the tea was offered to him by a Chinese diplomat. The Twinings brand claims the origin of the blend. What is bergamot in Earl Grey? It is a citrus fruit grown mainly in Calabria, Italy. Its essential oil, extracted from the peel, gives Earl Grey its characteristic citrusy floral aroma. Does Earl Grey contain caffeine? Yes, as much as a classic black tea, 40 to 70 mg per cup. Decaffeinated versions are available that retain the bergamot aroma. What is the difference between Earl Grey and classic black tea? Earl Grey is a black tea flavored with bergamot. Classic black tea has no added flavors. In taste, Earl Grey is more floral and citrusy, while plain black tea is bolder and more tannic. What milk goes with Earl Grey? Cow's milk works well, in the English style. For a plant-based version, oat milk is neutral and doesn't mask the bergamot. Coconut milk is too distinct for this use. Can you make an Earl Grey latte? Yes, it's often called a London Fog when vanilla is added. You prepare a concentrated Earl Grey, then top it with hot frothed milk. The result is soft and floral. For an exceptional tea with a more Japanese approach and stable energy, discover the TSUKI premium Japanese matcha collection.

10% off your first order