Earl Grey is one of the all-time greats of the tea world. The highest-quality black China teas are blended with Bergamot oil to create a delicate, aromatic and amazingly refreshing tea.
The 2nd Earl Grey was a well-known British tea enthusiast of the 19th century. He was also Prime Minister so his ideas on tea were influential.
There are various accounts of how he came to discover his eponymous tea but it seems that one of his staff rescued the Chinese ambassador's son from drowning. The grateful father gave Lord Grey (though not the member of staff!) some fine Chinese tea scented with Bergamot as a reward.
Grey liked the tea so much that he asked his tea merchants to copy the blend. They did so, and "Earl Grey's tea" became very popular.
Bergamot, or Citrus aurantium subsp. bergamia, is a citrus fruit that grows in Italy. Small and pear-shaped, it is a cross between the grapefruit and the pear lemon. The oil is used in aromatherapy to treat depression.
To enjoy at its best use one teaspoon of Earl Grey tea per person. Put this in a warmed pot and add fresh, boiling water. Allow to brew for 4 minutes, then strain into cups or mugs. Earl Grey can be enjoyed with or without milk. Purists would prefer it without, perhaps adding a slice of orange or lemon, which do both seem to go very well with the Bergamot.
If you enjoy aromatic teas such as Earl Grey, why not consider trying China Jasmine tea? This is a green tea with fragrant Jasmine petals - delicious and refreshing!
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