Earl Grey Tea

Earl Grey tea is a type of tea that is flavored with oil from the rind of the bergamot orange, a fruit mostly grown in Italy. Named after the 2nd Earl Grey, British Prime Minister in the 1830s, it is a popular choice in the United Kingdom and worldwide.

History

The exact origins of Earl Grey tea are unclear. The most popular legend involves a grateful Chinese mandarin whose son was rescued from drowning by one of Lord Grey's men. As a gift of gratitude, he presented the Earl with the recipe for the tea. However, this story is likely apocryphal, as Lord Grey never set foot in China.

Production

Earl Grey tea is traditionally made from black tea, but it can also be made with green tea, oolong tea, or white tea. The tea leaves are blended with bergamot oil to give it its distinctive flavor. The amount of bergamot used can vary, leading to a wide range of flavors and aromas.

Varieties

There are several varieties of Earl Grey tea, including Lady Grey (with additional citrus flavorings), Russian Earl Grey (with additional citrus peel and lemongrass), and Red Earl Grey (made with rooibos instead of tea leaves).

Health Benefits

Like all teas, Earl Grey has several health benefits. It contains antioxidants that can help fight off free radicals in the body. The bergamot oil in Earl Grey has also been shown to have calming effects, and can aid in digestion.

Cultural Significance

Earl Grey tea has a significant cultural impact, particularly in the United Kingdom where it is a staple of afternoon tea. It is also frequently referenced in popular culture, such as in the television series Star Trek: The Next Generation, where Captain Jean-Luc Picard is often seen drinking it.

See Also

• Tea in the United Kingdom
• List of teas
• Bergamot orange