The History of Earl Grey Tea

Earl Grey tea is one of the most recognisable tea blends in the world. With a distinctive flavour and rich history, it’s captured the hearts of tea enthusiasts worldwide. Read on to learn more about the history of Earl Grey tea, what sets it apart from other blends, and some of The Tea Centre’s most popular Earl Grey Fusion blends.

The History of Earl Grey Tea

The origins of Earl Grey tea are shrouded in legend and mystery. The most popular story attributes its creation to Charles Grey, the 2nd Earl Grey and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom in the 1830s. Two London companies—Twinings and Jacksons of Piccadilly—both claim to have created the Earl Grey blend in 1836 after the prime minister personally requested a tea recipe that offset the bitterness of his estate’s water supply (which contained high levels of limescale at the time).

Some historians suggest that the tea was actually created by British tea merchants looking to replicate the flavour of more expensive Chinese teas using cheaper Indian teas.

Regardless of its true origins, Earl Grey tea has earned its place as a staple in tea culture that remains popular today.

What Makes Earl Grey Tea Special?

Earl Grey tea stands out from other black teas due to its distinctive flavour, which comes from the addition of bergamot oil. Bergamot is a citrus fruit that is primarily grown in Italy. The oil extracted from its peel has a bright, fragrant, and slightly floral aroma that perfectly complements the boldness of black tea. This unique combination creates a balanced and refreshing taste that’s instantly recognisable.

The quality of Earl Grey tea can vary significantly depending on the base tea used and the quality of the bergamot oil. Traditional Earl Grey uses black teas such as Chinese Keemun or Indian Assam as the base, but modern blends may include a variety of black teas from different regions. The bergamot oil can also vary in quality, with natural bergamot oil generally providing a more authentic and complex flavour compared to synthetic alternatives.

The Tea Centre’s Earl Grey Teas

We’re proud to carry a range of delicious Earl Grey blends – including the classics, and some with sophisticated and modern twists – which one will you be trying next?