Earl Grey is one of the world's most iconic tea blends, and its unique flavour profile makes it unmistakable among all teas. What makes Earl Grey particularly remarkable is the bergamot oil - a subtle, citrus-like oil extracted from the bergamot fruit. This flavourful oil adds a fresh and light floral character that balances the depth and richness of the black tea. Most of our Earl Grey varieties are organic, and our bergamot oil comes from Calabria, known for its exceptional bergamot quality.Most of our Earl Grey varieties are also offered as organic tea.The name "Earl Grey" is believed to come from Charles Grey, a British Prime Minister in the 1830s. According to popular legend, the tea was named after him after he received it as a gift in gratitude for his diplomatic help in China. While the veracity of the story is questionable, the tea has undoubtedly become a beloved drink around the world. It is easy to understand why this tea has remained popular for generations and continues to appeal to new tea drinkers all over the world.
Earl Grey tea is one of the most beloved tea varieties in the world, known for its distinctive fragrance and refined flavor profile. The main ingredient is black tea, often sourced from the Camellia sinensis plant, flavored with bergamot oil, which is extracted from the peel of the bergamot orange (Citrus bergamia). This tea, with its unique character and health benefits, has captured both cultural and scientific interest.
The history of Earl Grey tea is surrounded by myths and is often linked to Charles Grey, the 2nd Earl Grey and British Prime Minister in the 1830s. The blend is believed to have originated through trade routes that introduced exotic citrus oils to Europe. Scientifically, the tea's powerful taste is based on the interaction between the tannins in black tea and the limonene-rich compounds found in bergamot oil.
Earl Grey offers several potential health benefits due to its bioactive compounds. The polyphenols found in black tea help combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The flavonoids in bergamot oil can improve cardiovascular health by regulating cholesterol levels. Additionally, the scent of bergamot is known for its stress-reducing effects and its ability to promote well-being.
The popularity of Earl Grey tea extends far beyond its British origins and has become a cornerstone of modern tea culture. Its versatility makes it equally suitable for traditional brewing as well as for innovative recipes, such as Earl Grey-based desserts and lattes.
