Of all of the internationally famous English teas, earl grey black tea certainly counts as among one of the most well known. A popular tea in England even today, earl grey black tea is named after the nineteenth century former British Prime Minister Charles Grey.
Although legend has it that Grey himself was responsible for the tea’s popularization in England, the name earl grey black tea only became commonplace towards the end of the century. What separates this tea from other popular English teas is the unmistakeable unique citrus flavor that is strongly associated with the name.
The main component of the delicious taste of early grey black tea is bergamot oil, which is manufactured from the bergamot orange plant. It is this oil that gives the tea its fruit-flavored, almost sharp taste that stands in contrast to the more earthy flavor of other popular English teas. This tea also has a unique scent that is somewhat tropical and floral in nature. Yet unlike fruit teas, earl grey black tea is not sharp and zesty to the point that one could call it sour. Its sharpness has been dulled to the point where it is noticeable but pleasant so that the tea retains its reputation as a relaxing and soothing drink.
This tea also can not be considered to have a spiced taste as is the case with other teas such as Masala chai. When you think of earl grey black tea, do not think of bitterness or the sort of burn you might expect from chilies.
Its citrus flavor is more comparable to the orange flavor you might find in chocolate. The orange flavor is present yet it has clearly blended with the overall taste and its scent is discernable yet not overwhelming.
Earl grey black tea has achieved such a popularity in England that, to this day, it is widely sold in supermarkets across the country. however, you may have noticed that there has not been any mention of milk.
Although it is common to combine English teas with milk, earl grey black tea is generally considered an exception. The tea’s fruit flavor is generally regarded as incompatible with the creamy, dairy flavour of milk. Although not a true fruit tea or herbal tea, earl grey black tea shares this characteristic with these teas and it is generally best to avoid directly mixing dairy flavors with it. Instead, it is best to enjoy the dairy flavors separately by serving the tea with cakes.
Yet that does not mean that you cannot add more flavor to the tea if you wish. It is best to build on the citrus taste of the bergamot oil by chopping a lemon and adding a slice to your earl grey black tea. By adding the lemon slice, the sharpness of the tea really comes to life while also adding a new, mildly zesty lemon flavor.
The lemon flavor complements the rich taste of the bergamot oil and renders the tea more refreshing overall. If you have not yet tried the delicious, unique taste of earl grey black tea, it is worth buying a box to add to your cupboard for an unmistakably English Afternoon Tea!