Earl Grey

Caffeine Content: Moderate Caffeine

Ingredients: Black tea, cornflower petals, natural flavors (organic compliant).

Flavor Profile: Robust - Floral - Smooth

Brewing Instructions: 

Amount: 1-2 teaspoons per 8oz

Water Temperature: 200-212°

Steep Time: 3-5 minutes

Earl Grey is an exquisite blend that marries the bold, robust flavors of black tea with the fragrant and refreshing notes of bergamot citrus. This blend features two distinct tea-growing regions: Sri Lanka and Albania, each bringing its own unique characteristics to the classic Earl Grey profile.

Key Characteristics:

Sri Lankan Black Tea Influence:

• Flavor Profile: Sri Lankan teas, particularly from the highlands like Nuwara Eliya or Kandy, are known for their bright, brisk, and lively flavor profile. They offer a full-bodied, malty sweetness with a subtle citrusy edge, often complemented by light floral notes.
• Aromatic Complexity: Sri Lankan black tea is often described as having a clean, crisp, and well-rounded aroma, which serves as a perfect base for the delicate infusion of bergamot. The natural sweetness and smoothness of these teas allow the added flavors to shine without overwhelming the palate.

Albanian Black Tea Influence:

• Flavor Profile: Though less commonly known on the global stage, Albanian black tea brings a more earthy, herbal dimension to the blend. Grown in the mountainous regions of Albania, these teas offer a slightly more astringent and mildly smoky profile compared to their Sri Lankan counterparts. The taste can be bold, with hints of dark honey, malt, and subtle woody undertones.
• Aromatic Complexity: Albanian teas have a deeper, more rugged aroma compared to the light and fragrant Sri Lankan varieties. They add an additional layer of complexity to the Earl Grey blend, providing a grounding backdrop that balances the citrusy freshness of bergamot.

Flavor Profile:

• Citrusy & Fragrant: The characteristic note of Earl Grey, derived from the infusion of bergamot oil, brings a vibrant and uplifting citrus flavor that dances on the palate. This citrus infusion enhances the natural brightness of the Sri Lankan tea while complementing the slightly earthy and robust character of the Albanian tea.
• Rich & Malty: The combination of the malty sweetness from Sri Lankan tea and the earthy tones from Albanian tea creates a beautifully layered flavor profile. The blend offers a deep, smooth base with subtle floral and woody undertones, bringing warmth and depth to the refreshing citrus finish.
• A Balanced Harmony: The key to this blend lies in the balance—while the Sri Lankan tea delivers brightness and crispness, the Albanian tea provides grounding depth and complexity. Together, they create a sophisticated cup with vibrant citrus notes, a rich, malty body, and a smooth, lingering aftertaste.

Brewing Tips:

• Water Temperature: For the best extraction of flavors, steep this Earl Grey blend with water at 200-212°F (93-100°C). Lower temperatures allows the tea to release its full-bodied characteristics without becoming overly astringent, particularly from the Albanian tea. Higher temperatures allow the tea to release its full-bodied characteristics with a more bold and astringent flavor that some black tea drinkers enjoy.
• Steeping Time: Brew for 3-5 minutes, depending on how strong you prefer your tea. A longer steeping time will enhance the rich, malty flavors from the Sri Lankan tea, while a shorter steeping time will highlight the bright, citrusy notes of the bergamot.

Health Benefits:

• Antioxidants: Both the Sri Lankan and Albanian black teas offer a wealth of antioxidants, which can support overall health by neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.
• Caffeine Boost: Like most black teas, this Earl Grey blend provides a moderate caffeine lift, offering a mild yet invigorating energy boost. The combination of smooth, earthy flavors and energizing caffeine makes it ideal for both morning and afternoon enjoyment.
• Digestive Aid: Black tea is known for its digestive benefits, helping to soothe the stomach and promote healthy digestion. Earl Grey is often considered a good choice after meals due to its ability to aid in digestion, especially with its gentle citrus notes.

Serving Suggestions:

• Plain or with Milk: For the purist, this Earl Grey is delightful on its own, allowing the balance of flavors to take center stage. However, adding a splash of milk or a dash of honey can bring out its creamy sweetness and enhance the richness, creating a smooth and comforting cup.
• Iced or Hot: Earl Grey from Sri Lanka and Albania can be enjoyed hot for a soothing, aromatic experience, or iced for a refreshing citrus-infused drink. It pairs beautifully with light snacks like scones or shortbread.

Why Earl Grey?

This unique Earl Grey blend is perfect for tea enthusiasts who appreciate the delicate harmony of bright citrus notes and rich, malty body. The fusion of the crisp, lively Sri Lankan tea with the deep, earthy tones of the Albanian tea creates a nuanced and sophisticated cup that will appeal to those who love classic Earl Grey but seek a slightly more complex, multi-dimensional flavor. Ideal for any time of day, this blend offers the perfect balance of refreshment and depth, making it a truly exceptional tea experience.