Loose Leaf Earl Grey Tea

The history of Earl Grey tea is surrounded by legend and various stories. The tea is named after Charles Grey, the 2nd Earl Grey, who was a British Prime Minister in the early 19th century. The exact origins of Earl Grey tea are unclear, but there are a few popular theories:

• Chinese Origin: One theory suggests that Earl Grey tea was originally blended by a Chinese tea master as a gift for Lord Grey. It is believed that the tea was flavored with bergamot oil to offset the lime flavor in the local water supply. Lord Grey supposedly enjoyed the tea and asked for more, leading to its production and popularity.

• Diplomatic Gift: Another story suggests that an envoy from China presented the blend to Lord Grey as a diplomatic gift. The bergamot flavor was added to help preserve and enhance the tea during the long voyage from China to England.

• Accidental Bergamot: According to another account, bergamot oil was accidentally added to tea when a container of the oil was broken during transportation. Rather than discarding the tea, it was decided to blend it with the bergamot-infused tea, resulting in the distinctive flavor.

While the exact details of its origin remain uncertain, Earl Grey tea gained popularity in England during the 19th century and has since become a well-known and widely consumed tea variety. Today, Earl Grey is typically made with black tea as a base and flavored with the essential oil derived from the rind of the bergamot orange, giving it its unique and fragrant taste.

While you’re here, be sure to explore our other premium tea collections as well, including organic loose leaf white teas, green teas, oolong teas, and more, plus a selection of herbal and wellness teas to help you feel your very best at all times. Free tea sample and tea filter included with every order.