Earl Grey tea is a type of black tea that is flavored with oil of bergamot, a citrus fruit that is native to Italy. The tea is named after Charles Grey, who was the 2nd Earl Grey and served as the Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1830-1834.
Bergamot is roughly the size of an orange but has a unique pear-like shape. It is known for its distinct aroma and flavor, which is both citrusy and slightly floral. The peel of the bergamot fruit is used to extract essential oils, which are highly valued in perfumery and flavoring industries. Bergamot oil is a key ingredient in many fragrances, including the famous Eau de Cologne. In addition to its use in Earl Grey tea, bergamont is also commonly used as a flavoring agent in candies and desserts. Additionally, bergamot oil is used in aromatherapy due to its uplifting and calming properties.
The exact origins of Earl Grey tea are unclear, but there are a few different stories about how it came to be. One popular story is that the tea was a gift to Charles Grey from a Chinese mandarin, as a thank-you for helping to resolve a trade dispute between Britain and China. The bergamont was included in the tea who to offset the taste of lime in the water at Howick Hall, the Grey family estate. This however is probably not entirely factual. It is true that the water quality during that time in England was not always reliable, and people often sought ways to improve the taste and quality of their drinking water. However, there is no specific record or documented reason indicating that Earl Grey specifically added lime to his water.
Another story suggests that the tea was blended by a tea merchant in London and named after Grey to commemorate the passing of the Reform Bill of 1832, which he supported.
Regardless of its origins, Earl Grey tea quickly became popular in England and beyond. The tea is now widely available around the world and is enjoyed for its unique flavor and aroma. The tea has a bold, rich flavor from the black tea leaves, with a subtle citrus note from the bergamot oil.
Earl Grey tea is often enjoyed plain or with a small amount of milk and sugar. It can also be used as a base for other tea blends or as a flavoring in baked goods and other recipes. Overall, Earl Grey tea is a classic and beloved beverage that has been enjoyed for generations.