Earl Grey Tea

What Is Earl Grey Tea?

Earl Grey is a classic British tea blend made by flavoring black tea leaves (Camellia sinensis) with the peel oil of a citrus fruit called bergamot. It takes its name from the 19th-century British Prime Minister Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey.

Bergamot is a citrus fruit resembling orange and lemon but with a more floral-sharp character; the essential oil obtained from its peel gives black tea a distinct citrus-floral aroma and a slightly tart note.

Nutritional Values of Earl Grey Tea

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

How Should Earl Grey Tea Be Consumed?

Earl Grey can be considered part of a balanced diet as a low-calorie source of caffeine; it is recommended that caffeine-sensitive people limit their consumption in the evening hours.

This information is general; earl grey tea is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Earl Grey Tea?

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

• Bergamot smell should be distinct but not overpowering
• Leaves should be intact, not powdery
• "Natural bergamot oil" should be preferred in the ingredients

How Should Earl Grey Tea Be Stored?

Earl Grey is stored in a sealed container in a dry, dark place; flavored teas lose their aroma over time, so it is recommended to consume them within a few months.

Using Earl Grey Tea in the Kitchen

Earl Grey is most often consumed as a hot beverage, either British style with milk and sugar or plain with lemon; it is also used in Earl Grey flavored cakes, chocolate, and ice cream.

What Is the Difference Between Earl Grey and Lady Grey?

Lady Grey is a lighter version of Earl Grey; in addition to bergamot, it contains lemon and orange peel with citrus blossom aroma, giving it a fresher, lighter taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does Earl Grey get its name?

It is attributed to the 19th-century British Prime Minister Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey; there are stories about the blend being presented to him or prepared for him, though its exact origin is debated.

Is Earl Grey tea drunk with milk?

In traditional British style it is drunk with milk and sugar as desired; however it is also commonly consumed plain or with lemon, depending on personal preference.

Is real bergamot fruit used in Earl Grey tea?

The essential oil obtained from its peel is used; the fruit itself is not added to the tea. In quality products this oil is natural, while in cheaper products it may be artificial flavoring.