At a glance: our organic Earl Grey black tea, naturally scented with bergamot, brews in 3 to 5 minutes at 100°C, using 12-15 g per litre. A warm, copper-hued cup, round and fragrant, perfect for the morning.
Earl Grey is arguably the most celebrated of all scented black teas. Its signature: a blend of black leaves lifted by the essential oil of bergamot, that bright, sun-filled citrus fruit whose aroma is instantly recognisable.
For our version, we chose a blend of Assam and South Indian teas, two origins that complement each other beautifully. The Assam brings malty roundness and depth. The South Indian tea, livelier in character, balances the blend and lets the natural bergamot aroma come through fully. All grown organically, without compromise.
If you're new to black tea, choosing the right black tea will help you place this Earl Grey among the great families of black tea.
The flavour profile of our Earl Grey
The moment you open the bag, bergamot takes centre stage. It's fresh and zesty, never overpowering: the scent of ripe citrus, with a gentle floral note, hinting at an elegant cup ahead.
As it brews, the liquor takes on a beautiful copper colour. On the palate, the first impression is bright and fragrant, carried by the bergamot. The mid-palate then reveals the black tea base: malty, lightly woody notes, present but never astringent.
The finish is long, round, and fragrant. A classic, expertly balanced, that appeals equally to seasoned tea drinkers and those just discovering scented black tea. To continue exploring, you might also discover our Blue Earl Grey, lifted with cornflower petals.
- Organic Assam: the malty, rounded base that gives the infusion its body.
- Organic South Indian black tea: brightness and aromatic clarity.
- Natural bergamot flavouring: the defining signature of Earl Grey, fresh and zesty.
If you're weighing up black versus green, green tea or black tea: which to choose covers the key differences.
How to brew Earl Grey black tea
Preparation makes all the difference. Water that's too cool will mute the bergamot; steeping too long will harden the base. Here are the parameters we recommend to bring out the best in this tea.
- Water: low in minerals, freshly brought to 100°C.
- Quantity: 12 to 15 g per litre, roughly a heaped teaspoon per cup.
- Steeping time: 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the strength you prefer.
- Equipment: a teapot with a wide filter or a generous tea infuser, so the leaves can unfurl freely.
Three minutes yields a delicate, fragrant cup; five minutes gives a fuller, more robust infusion. Enjoy it plain, with a splash of milk for something a little more indulgent, or brightened with a twist of lemon.
Earl Grey also lends itself beautifully to cold brewing (8 hours in the refrigerator, 15 g per litre), for a refreshing take on summer mornings.
Storage
Packed in our workshop, this tea keeps best in its original tin or in an airtight, opaque container, away from light, heat, moisture and strong odours. Stored well, the bergamot's delicate character stays intact for 18 to 24 months.
To compare every variation, explore our complete range of Earl Grey teas.
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of Earl Grey tea?
Beyond the pleasure of a bergamot-scented cup, Earl Grey is above all a tea to be savoured. Its zesty aroma makes it a comforting everyday drink, ideal in the morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up.
How do I brew Earl Grey black tea?
Use 12 to 15 g of leaves per litre, with water brought to 100°C. Steep for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on your preferred strength. Enjoy plain, with a splash of milk, or with a twist of lemon.
Where can I buy organic Earl Grey tea?
Thés & Traditions offers this organic Earl Grey as a loose-leaf tea, made from Assam and South Indian teas certified organic. Browse our black teas to explore our full selection.
What varieties of Earl Grey tea are there?
There are several takes on the classic: traditional Earl Grey with bergamot, Blue Earl Grey with cornflower petals, Russian Earl Grey with citrus notes, and versions made on a green tea or rooibos base. Our black tea collection to explore our range.
What does Earl Grey tea taste like?
Earl Grey is defined by the scent of bergamot, a Mediterranean citrus with zesty, lightly floral notes. The black tea base adds malty, woody nuances that balance the whole. For more on black tea, see our dedicated guide.
