Earl Grey Tea: Everything You Need to Know

Earl Grey is one of the most recognizable teas in the world — but most people don't know much about what's actually in it, where it comes from, or why it tastes the way it does. Here's everything you need to know about Earl Grey tea.

What Is Earl Grey?

Earl Grey is a flavored tea made by combining black tea with oil of bergamot — a fragrant citrus fruit grown primarily in southern Italy. The bergamot oil gives Earl Grey its distinctive floral, citrusy aroma and flavor that sets it apart from plain black tea.

Where Does the Name Come From?

The tea is named after Charles Grey, the 2nd Earl Grey and British Prime Minister in the 1830s. The exact origin story is disputed — some say it was a diplomatic gift, others say it was blended to suit the mineral-heavy water at his estate. Either way, the name stuck.

What Does Earl Grey Taste Like?

Earl Grey has a bold black tea base with a bright, floral, citrusy overlay from the bergamot. It's aromatic and slightly perfumed — more complex than plain black tea but less astringent. The flavor can range from subtle to intensely floral depending on how much bergamot oil is used.

How to Brew Earl Grey

• Water temperature: 200–212°F (just off boiling)
• Steep time: 3–5 minutes (longer = stronger and more astringent)
• Ratio: 1 teaspoon loose leaf or 1 tea bag per 8oz water
• Milk: optional — a splash of milk softens the bergamot and adds creaminess
• Sweetener: honey pairs beautifully with the floral notes

Earl Grey Variations

• Lady Grey — a lighter blend with added lemon and orange peel
• London Fog — Earl Grey brewed strong, topped with steamed milk and vanilla
• Iced Earl Grey — brewed double-strength and poured over ice, refreshing and floral
• Earl Grey Latte — like a London Fog but with more milk, similar to a tea latte

Earl Grey vs. Black Tea

Earl Grey is black tea — the bergamot flavoring is what makes it Earl Grey specifically. If you enjoy plain black tea but want something more aromatic and complex, Earl Grey is a natural next step.

Shop our tea collection →

10% of every sale funds children's education worldwide.