Product review

A couple of years ago my best friend gave me some tea to try; I had never heard the name: Jenier. It was in pyramid shape, all compostable packaging and had a wonderful aroma. When I made my first cup, I immediately fell in love. One of the best Earl Grey I had ever had!

Since then I have become a huge fan and have recentry tried some of their custom Earl Greys including the Duchess. I love it so much, I thought I would spread the word. It’s not easy to source, and mainly sold wholesale, however Teas Direct offer the option to buy in small quantities and provides a quick and easy to buy online service, so I would recommend them as a retailer.

The Legend Behind Earl Grey

There’s something undeniably captivating about the aroma of tea. Among the assortment of aromatic teas, Earl Grey tea reigns supreme. Originating in the 19th century, this timeless blend of black tea infused with citrusy bergamot essence continues to fascinate tea enthusiasts around the world.

Earl Grey tea is believed to be named after Charles Grey, the 2nd Earl Grey and former British Prime Minister. The story goes that a Chinese tea master created this exclusive blend for Lord Grey, adding a touch of bergamot to enhance the flavor of the tea. Over time, its popularity spread far beyond the Earl’s circle, and today it is celebrated for its distinctive aroma and unique taste

The Allure of Bergamot

At the heart of Earl Grey tea lies the enchanting aroma of bergamot. This small, sour citrus fruit hails from the southern regions of Italy (Calabria) and possesses a distinct scent that is both citrusy and floral. The infusion of bergamot oil into black tea creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that entices the senses with each sip. The citrus notes of bergamot marry beautifully with the robustness of black tea, resulting in a refreshing and invigorating cup of tea.

The Aromatic Experience

When preparing Earl Grey tea, the aroma is unleashed as soon as it meets hot water. As the tea brews, the room fills with a captivating fragrance that instantly uplifts.

It’s important to pay attention to the brewing process. Allow the tea leaves to steep for 3-5 minutes to unlock their full potential. Capture the essence of Earl Grey by using freshly boiled water around 96°C to extract the flavours optimally. My absolute preference is with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a tiny touch of sugar, however most people drink it with milk.

While traditional Earl Grey tea remains a timeless classic, there are numerous variations available today. Some blends incorporate additional elements like lavender, vanilla, or even a citrus twist. These variations offer a delightful exploration of different flavor profiles, all while maintaining the essence of the bergamot aroma. Jenier has an incredible variety including an Earl Grey Green Tea!

I really love the Duchess Earl Grey, which is quite fruity and has notes of orange; the ‘Cream Earl Grey’ is also excellent, and more floral. So many to try!

Pair your Earl Grey tea with delicate pastries, scones, or lemon-infused shortbread for a perfect afternoon tea experience. I recommend the recipe for Lingue di Gatto which brings me back to my childhood when my afternoon ‘merenda’ (snack) was a cup of earl grey with these lovely, buttery biscuits.

Conclusion

Earl Grey tea stands out among aromatic teas, captivating both tea lovers and newcomers alike with its tantalizing aroma. The infusion of bergamot oil into black tea creates a sensory experience that is both invigorating and calming. Whether you enjoy it as a traditional cup of tea or opt for a unique variation, the allure of Earl Grey will always leave you longing for more.

So, take a moment, immerse yourself in the aromatic symphony of Earl Grey, and embark on a sensory journey that promises to captivate your taste buds and rejuvenate your spirit.