Earl Grey Tea

Earl Grey tea is one of the world's most recognisable and beloved tea varieties, instantly identifiable by its distinctive floral aroma and sophisticated flavour profile. Named after Charles Grey, the 2nd Earl Grey and British Prime Minister in the 1830s, this classic blend has captivated tea enthusiasts for nearly two centuries.

At its heart, Earl Grey is a black tea infused with bergamot. This aromatic addition transforms a simple black tea into an extraordinary drink that balances the robustness of tea leaves with bright, zesty citrus notes and a subtle hint of floral complexity. The bergamot gives Earl Grey its signature character: smooth, refined, and unmistakably elegant.

What makes Earl Grey special is its versatility. Whether enjoyed as a morning ritual, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a calming evening brew, it adapts beautifully to different moments and moods. Some prefer it served traditionally with a splash of milk and a touch of honey, while others savour it neat to fully appreciate the bergamot's delicate nuances. It pairs wonderfully with light pastries, biscuits, or simply enjoyed on its own as a moment of quiet indulgence.

Beyond its taste, Earl Grey carries a sense of heritage and timelessness. It's a tea steeped in history, yet remains as relevant and cherished today as it was generations ago. For those new to Earl Grey, the first sip often marks the beginning of a lasting appreciation for this iconic blend.

To make it yourself is easy:

Simply removed the peel from the fruit using a vegetable peeler, cutting as closely as possible to avoid the pith. Air-dry the peels by placing them on a plate near a heater or in a very very low oven or food dyer if you have one. Break up the peel into 2.5 cm pieces and add it to jars along with loose black tea.

How much to add per jar? A lot depends on how fragrant your fruit and subsequent peels are. About three 2.5 cm-long pieces of bergamot in a small jar, would give a mild flavour. Experiment and add more or less peel, based on your tastes. Just be sure when your brew your tea that you include a peel when filling the brew basket. Any extra dried peel can be stored in a glass jar with a tight lid.