Earl Grey Tea

What Is Earl Grey Tea?

Earl Grey is a classic English tea blend made by flavoring black tea leaves (Camellia sinensis) with the peel oil of a citrus fruit called bergamot. It is named after Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey, a 19th-century British prime minister.

Bergamot is a citrus fruit similar to an orange and lemon, but more floral and pungent; its essential oil, extracted from the peel, gives black tea a distinct citrus-floral aroma and a slightly tart note.

Nutritional Values of Earl Grey Tea

One cup of brewed Earl Grey tea is nearly calorie-free (approximately 1 kcal); since it is based on black tea, it contains a moderate to high level of caffeine. Values are approximate.

How Should Earl Grey Tea Be Consumed?

Earl Grey can be part of a balanced diet as a low-calorie source of caffeine; people sensitive to caffeine are advised to limit their intake in the evening.

This is general information; Earl Grey tea is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Earl Grey Tea

Good Earl Grey has a distinct but not overpowering bergamot aroma, intact leaves (if present), and a dark color. Products listing natural bergamot oil in the ingredients are considered higher quality than those containing artificial flavoring.

• The bergamot aroma should be distinct but not overpowering
• The leaves should be intact and not dusty
• Choose products listing “natural bergamot oil” in the ingredients

How to Store Earl Grey Tea

Store Earl Grey in a sealed container in a dry place away from light; flavored teas lose their aroma over time, so it is recommended to use them within a few months.

Using Earl Grey Tea in the Kitchen

Earl Grey is most often consumed as a hot drink, English-style with milk and sugar or plain with lemon; it is also used in desserts such as Earl Grey-flavored cakes, chocolate, and ice cream.

What Is the Difference Between Earl Grey and Lady Grey?

Lady Grey is a milder version of Earl Grey; in addition to bergamot, it contains lemon and orange peel and citrus blossom aromas, and has a fresher, lighter flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does Earl Grey get its name?

It is attributed to Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey, a 19th-century British prime minister; stories say the blend was presented to him or prepared for him, but its exact origin is disputed.

Is Earl Grey tea drunk with milk?

In the traditional English style, it is drunk with milk and, if desired, sugar; however, it is also widely consumed plain or with lemon, depending on personal preference.

Is real bergamot fruit used in Earl Grey tea?

The essential oil extracted from the peel is used; the fruit itself is not added to the tea. In quality products this oil may be natural, while inexpensive products may use artificial flavoring.