Few teas are as iconic, aromatic and refreshing as Earl Grey. With its bold black tea base and bright citrus notes from bergamot, this timeless tea is a corker.
But what is Earl Grey tea, exactly? What is bergamot? Does it contain caffeine? And the divisive question – should you drink Earl Grey tea with milk?
Let’s dive into the history, health benefits, and best ways to enjoy this elegant tea.
What is earl grey tea?
Earl Grey tea is a blend of black tea infused with natural bergamot oil, extracted from the rind of the bergamot orange, that grows in Calabria in Italy. The result? A beautifully fragrant, slightly floral, citrusy tea.
Why is it called earl grey?
This famous tea is named after Charles Grey, a British Prime Minister in the 1830s. While its exact origins remain debated, one legend suggests a Chinese tea master gifted the blend to Grey after saving his son’s life.
What makes it a special black tea?
🔹 A refreshing balance between the boldness of black tea and the brightness of citrus
🔹 A versatile drink—enjoy it black, with milk, or as a latte (hello, London Fog)
🔹 A natural, slow-releasing energy boost without the jitters of coffee
Bergamot oranges
Types of earl grey tea & best options to buy
Not all Earl Grey teas are created equal. Whether you prefer loose leaf, tea bags, or organic blends, choosing the right variety makes all the difference.
1. Look out for real bergamot oil
Lots of mass market tea brands use fake bergamot flavouring instead of the real deal as bergamot is an expensive ingredient. Look for earl grey made with real bergamot oil.
✔ Better taste – real bergamot oil is fresh, natural and delicious
✔ Natural – taste from nature instead of fake flavourings
➡️ Shop Earl Grey with bergamot oil
2. Organic earl grey tea – pure & pesticide-free
Look for earl grey made with real bergamot oil. For the best, cleanest cup, choose organic Earl Grey tea, that’s also free from artificial flavours and chemicals.
✔ No synthetic pesticides – Just real bergamot oil and premium black tea
✔ More complex flavors – A richer, more vibrant taste
✔ Better for the planet – Sustainably grown
2. Earl Grey Black Tea – classic & bold
Traditional Earl Grey black tea is made with strong, full-bodied tea leaves from:
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Assam – Rich, malty, and full-bodied
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Darjeeling – Light, floral, and slightly muscatel
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Ceylon – Bright, citrusy, and smooth
🔹 Perfect for those who love a robust, wake-me-up tea
➡️ Discover Our Best Earl Grey Black Teas made with Darjeeling leaves.
3. Earl Grey Tea Bags – quick, easy and delicious
If you love convenience without compromise, Earl Grey tea bags are a great choice.
✔ Whole-leaf tea bags deliver maximum flavor
✔ Plastic-free options look for plastic free tea bags to prevent microplastic contamination
✔ Easy brewing just steep and enjoy.
➡️ Shop Our Best Earl Grey Tea Bags
Does Earl Grey Tea Contain Caffeine?
Yes! Earl Grey tea naturally contains caffeine, but less than coffee.
|
Drink |
Caffeine Content (per 8oz cup) |
|
Earl Grey Tea |
40-70 mg |
|
Green Tea |
30-50 mg |
|
Coffee |
95-120 mg |
🔹 Need an energy boost? Go for Assam-based Earl Grey, which has a higher caffeine level.
🔹 Want a milder option? Choose Darjeeling-based Earl Grey for a lighter caffeine kick.
➡️Shop Darjeeling Earl Grey
Earl Grey tea and milk – should you add it?
The age-old debate: Do you put milk in Earl Grey tea?
💡 Traditional Answer: No! The bright bergamot oil is best enjoyed without milk.
💡 Personal Preference: Some people love Earl Grey tea with milk for a smoother, creamier taste.
Best Ways to Enjoy Earl Grey Tea with Milk
✔ Add a splash of warm milk for a balanced, creamy texture
✔ Try oat milk or almond milk for a plant-based alternative
✔ Make a London Fog Latte—Earl Grey + steamed milk + vanilla
How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Earl Grey Tea
1️⃣ Choose your tea type – Loose leaf for the best slow-release flavour, or tea bags for convenience
2️⃣ Use fresh, hot water – 90-95°C (just below boiling)
3️⃣ Steep for 3-4 Minutes – Over-steeping can make it bitter
4️⃣ Customise your cup – Add lemon, honey, or milk to suit your taste
➡️ Shop Premium Earl Grey Tea Now
The Health Benefits of Earl Grey Tea
Not only does Earl Grey taste amazing, but it also has powerful health benefits.
✔ Rich in Antioxidants – Fights free radicals & supports immune health
✔ Supports heart health – May help lower cholesterol levels
✔ Boosts energy & focus – Caffeine + L-theanine = sustained alertness
✔ Aids digestion – Bergamot oil may soothe stomach discomfort
➡️ Read More About Earl Grey Benefits
Final Thoughts – Earl Grey Tea is a must try
Earl Grey tea is more than just a classic British brew – it’s a refreshing, energising, and health-boosting drink.
✅ Go organic for the cleanest, most vibrant taste
✅ Try loose leaf for a richer, more complex flavour
✅ Choose plastic-free tea bags to avoid microplastics
✅ Enjoy it black or with milk – your choice
➡️ Shop the Best Earl Grey Teas Now