The Truth About Earl Grey

Earl Grey, a specialty black tea with a rich aroma, is uniquely essenced with bergamot oil which provides a beautiful, bright, citrus note. So why do so many people think Earl Grey tea has lavender in it? Well, simply put: they go well together! This popular tea serves as the base for various lattes and drinks, and is often paired with herby florals like lavender. Let’s deep dive into all things Earl Grey and learn why citrus and floral are the perfect match.

 

 

What is Earl Grey?

Earl Grey is a rich black tea made from Camellia sinensis leaves that is uniquely processed through harvesting followed by a process of withering the leaves so that they can release excess moisture. Next, the leaves are rolled which brings out their natural juices and enzymes. After this, the leaves are oxidized so that the depth of their flavor profile can develop. The final step, and what makes Earl Grey stand apart from other black teas, is that the leaves are combined with bergamot oil, which is extracted from the peel of bergamot fruit. 

The Importance of High Quality Oils

Not all essential oils are made equal! Most mass-manufactured Earl Grey teas cut corners to keep costs low, meaning they are not likely using pure, high quality bergamot oil. The result is an overly perfumed tea that has a synthetic aftertaste. True Tea uses 100% pure Italian bergamot oil, a distinction that makes our Organic Earl Grey a forever best-seller!

 

 

Adding Notes of Lavender

Lavender is an incredible herb that is praised for his aromatherapeutic properties, but also for its medicinal, relaxing qualities. Too much of any floral note in a culinary setting can be overpowering–this is where citrus comes in! Bergamot is a soft citrus that has a brightening effect on anything it’s paired with. Together, they create a balance that compliments the other beautifully. Adding the richness of a black tea creates a dreamy, sensorial experience.

 

 

Lavender Simple Syrup

Curious to try it for yourself? For your at-home 12oz latte add 35g of lavender simple syrup.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of water
• 3 tablespoons of Organic Dried Lavender Flowers
• 2 cups of sugar

Simple Syrup Recipe:

1) Add the Lavender and water to a saucepan and bring to a boil.

2) Once boiling, reduce the heat and stir in the sugar until dissolved.

3) Simmer for 15 minutes

4) Remove from the heat and allow to cool and steep for at least 1 hour or longer, until the flavor is to your liking. Strain out the lavender. Pour the lavender syrup into a bottle and keep in the refrigerator.

 

Did you know? You can add lavender simple syrup to Matcha lattes, too!