Earl Grey Tea
A classic tea with bergamot oil offering a slightly citrus taste. The bergamot used to flavor tea comes from a tree that is grown in the south of Italy. A citrus fruit, somewhat like lemon, orange and grapefruit mixed together, the scent is often likened to orange blossom. In the winter months before it ripens, the fruit harvest is picked by hand. Specially made cold-presses are used to extract the bergamot essence, which is then stored for at least a year. Bergamot is used in aromatherapy to treat depression, and also has anti-microbial effects that can strengthen the resistance of the body to colds and illnesses. Earl Grey tea was indeed named after the second Earl Charles Grey of Britain back in the 1830s. Though proof is scarce, he is traditionally credited with the creation of this blended tea. Versions of the story claim that he had saved the life of the mandarin, and the tea was a special gift of gratitude. Earl Charles Grey was then reputed to have demanded his tea supplier in London recreate the tea for him, and the taste became fashionable, eventually spreading worldwide. In addition to lending his name to the tea, during his years in Parliament, he was noted for advancing Parliamentary reform and Catholic emancipation. Charles Grey was prime minister from 1830-1834, during which time the act was passed to abolish slavery in the British Empire.
Steep for 3-5 minutes in 205 degree water.
