Earl Grey

Black Tea Assam, South India black tea (98%), natural bergamot flavouring. Alveus premium blend with ingredients from sustainable cultivation and natural flavourings.

Key Components:

• Assam Black Tea: Provides a strong, malty base
• South India Black Tea: Adds depth and complexity
• Natural Bergamot Flavoring: Imparts the characteristic citrus aroma and taste

For an optimal infusion of flavors and potential benefits, use 12-15 grams of Earl Grey per liter of water. Steep for 3-5 minutes in water heated to 100°C (212°F). This steeping time allows for full extraction of the black tea's robust flavors and the bergamot essence.

The resulting infusion offers a multifaceted flavor experience that evolves with each sip. The strong, malty notes of Assam tea form a perfect backdrop for the bright, citrusy bergamot flavoring. Enjoy hot for a traditional experience, or serve over ice for a refreshing twist on this classic blend.

Earl Grey can be enjoyed plain or with additions like milk, lemon, or honey, depending on personal preference. It's an excellent choice for afternoon tea or as a revitalizing morning cup to start the day.

This Earl Grey blend offers more than just a delightful taste; it potentially provides various health benefits:

• Black Tea: Rich in antioxidants, particularly theaflavins and thearubigins, which may help protect against cellular damage and reduce the risk of certain diseases. Black tea consumption has been associated with:
  • Improved cardiovascular health
  • Enhanced cognitive function
  • Potential anti-inflammatory effects
• Bergamot: The natural bergamot flavoring, derived from bergamot orange peel, contains compounds like limonene and linalool, which may offer:
  • Antimicrobial properties
  • Anti-inflammatory effects
  • Mood-enhancing qualities, potentially reducing stress and anxiety

The combination of black tea and bergamot in this Earl Grey creates a synergistic blend that may offer both physical and mental health benefits. The moderate caffeine content provides a gentle energy boost, while the aromatic bergamot may help promote a sense of calm and well-being.

Earl Grey tea holds a special place in tea culture, with a rich history and global appeal:

Assam Tea: Originating from the Assam region in India, this tea has been a significant part of Indian tea culture since the 19th century. Known for its rich soil and ideal climate for tea cultivation, Assam produces teas that are prized for their strong, full-bodied flavor profiles. Assam tea quickly became a favorite among British tea drinkers and is often used as the base for many popular blends, including Earl Grey.

Bergamot: Bergamot oranges are primarily grown in Calabria, Italy, and have been used for centuries in culinary and medicinal applications. The essential oil extracted from the peel of this citrus fruit has a distinct floral and citrusy aroma that has made it a key ingredient in perfumes, aromatherapy, and, of course, Earl Grey tea.

Earl Grey Tea: The origin of Earl Grey tea is steeped in legend and British history. The name is attributed to Charles Grey, the 2nd Earl Grey and Prime Min ister of England in the 1830s. According to popular lore, he received bergamot-flavored tea as a diplomatic gift, possibly after one of his men saved the son of a Chinese mandarin. While the historical accuracy of this story is debated, it adds to the romantic allure of the blend.

Earl Grey quickly became popular in England during the 19th century and has since become a classic English tea time treat. Its popularity spread globally, and it is now enjoyed worldwide, often associated with sophistication and refinement.

In modern times, Earl Grey has inspired numerous variations and has been incorporated into various culinary applications, from baked goods to cocktails. It remains a beloved classic, representing a perfect marriage of British tea traditions and Mediterranean citrus flavors.