7 Ways to Enjoy Earl Grey Tea (Even If You Think You Don't Like It)

Earl Grey tea – that distinctive blend with the citrusy aroma – often sparks strong reactions. Some adore it, while others wrinkle their nose at its bold bergamot flavor. But before you dismiss this classic, let's explore what makes Earl Grey special and how you might discover a newfound appreciation for this timeless tea.

What Is Earl Grey?

Earl Grey is typically a flavored black tea infused with oil from the bergamot orange, a citrus fruit grown primarily in Italy, but these days any tea with bergamot is considered an earl grey. Its origin story includes tales of diplomatic gifts and aristocratic tastes, but what matters today is its unmistakable fragrance and the way it bridges the gap between bold black tea and bright citrus notes.

Why Some People Hesitate

Let's be honest – not everyone falls in love with Earl Grey at first sip. Common complaints include:

• The bergamot flavor can seem overwhelming or artificial
• Traditional Earl Grey can taste bitter if steeped too long
• Some find the floral notes too perfume-like
• Mass-produced versions often use low-quality bergamot oil

But with a few simple adjustments, even the most skeptical tea drinker might discover the magic hiding in this beloved blend.

1. Seek Fresh Bergamot

The quality of bergamot makes all the difference. Many grocery store Earl Grey teas use artificial flavoring or old bergamot oil that develops a harsh, acid-like quality. Look for teas using fresh, natural bergamot extract.

Our Mindful Morning Earl Grey Crème balances real bergamot oil with smooth vanilla, creating a gentler introduction to Earl Grey's charms. The difference between fresh and stale bergamot is like comparing a just-squeezed orange to artificial orange candy.

2. Try It Iced Instead of Hot

Earl Grey transforms beautifully when served cold. The cooler temperature mellows the bergamot intensity while highlighting its refreshing citrus notes.

For a perfect iced Earl Grey:

• Cold brew overnight in the refrigerator to avoid bitterness
• Add a splash of lemonade for an 'arnold palmer' variation
• Garnish with fresh orange slices to complement the bergamot

Our Delightful Morning Lavender Earl Grey makes an exceptional iced tea, with the lavender adding a soothing counterpoint to the bright bergamot.

3. Perfect Your Brewing Technique

Over-extraction / over-steeping is the enemy of good Earl Grey. The tannins in black tea become increasingly bitter with prolonged steeping, overwhelming the delicate bergamot notes.

For a balanced cup:

• Steep for only 3-4 minutes max
• Consider a shorter steep time (2-3 minutes) for your first experiments if still concerned
• Only do iced tea, and then prepare a cold brew (cold water + 8 hours in fridge)

4. Add a Touch of Sweetness

A hint of sweetener can transform Earl Grey by tempering any bitterness and enhancing its natural aromatics. Honey particularly complements the floral aspects of bergamot, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Try our Queen's Blend Lemon Crème Earl Grey Green Tea with a drizzle of local honey for a truly transformative experience.

5. Incorporate Creamy Elements

The addition of milk or cream creates the famous "London Fog" drink, beloved for how the creamy elements soften the astringency while preserving the distinctive bergamot character.

Our Creme Brulée Earl Grey with jasmine and vanilla was designed specifically to shine with a splash of milk, creating a dessert-like experience in your cup.

6. Pair With the Right Foods

Earl Grey's citrus notes make it an exceptional companion to certain foods:

• Buttery scones or shortbread cookies
• Lemon-flavored desserts that echo the citrus notes
• Dark chocolate, which creates a sophisticated contrast
• Breakfast pastries that benefit from Earl Grey's palate-cleansing properties

The tea's brightness cuts through rich, sweet treats while complementing their flavors.

7. Explore Earl Grey Variations

If traditional Earl Grey seems too intense, numerous variations offer gentler introductions:

• Gratitude Strawberry Earl Grey balances bergamot with sweet strawberry notes
• Picard Pecan Earl Grey introduces nutty warmth that transforms the classic profile

The world of Earl Grey is vast and varied, with a version to please almost any palate.  What will you try next?