If you’re a tea enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of Earl Grey and Lady Grey. While they both come from the same tea family, they have distinct differences that set them apart. In this article, we’ll provide you with a general overview of Earl Grey and Lady Grey teas, explore their similarities and differences, and give you insights on when to use each one.
Earl Grey and Lady Grey teas are popular for their unique flavors and aromas. Earl Grey is made from black tea leaves infused with oil extracted from the rind of bergamot oranges, while Lady Grey is a blend of black tea leaves with added flavors of lemon and orange peel. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the differences between these two teas and help you determine which one is best for you.
Quick Navigation
Key Takeaways
- Earl Grey and Lady Grey teas come from the same tea family but have distinct differences in taste and aroma.
- Earl Grey is made with bergamot oil, while Lady Grey has added flavors of lemon and orange peel.
- Earl Grey is best enjoyed in the morning or afternoon, while Lady Grey is a great choice for a relaxing evening tea.
Earl Grey vs Lady Grey: General Overview
Earl Grey
Earl Grey is a subcategory of black tea that is flavored with bergamot. It was named after British Prime Minister Earl Charles Grey, who tasted a scented tea during a diplomatic visit to China and wanted something similar in Britain. The classic Earl Grey consists of black tea with bergamot oil, although the taste may differ depending on the brand.
Earl Grey has other variations, including Rooibos Earl Grey and Earl Green Grey. The global Earl Grey tea market is expected to grow by 3.5% from 2021 to 2026, with North America and Europe dominating the market due to the increasing demand for natural and healthy products.
Lady Grey
Lady Grey is a more refined and gentler version of Earl Grey due to the infusion of orange and citrus peel. It has the same recipe as Earl Grey, although it has a lighter bergamot note. Lady Grey was introduced by Twinings in the 1990s as a response to the classic Earl Grey blend being too robust for some tea drinkers in Northern Europe and the North Atlantic.
The name Lady Grey was inspired by Countess Mary Elizabeth Grey, the wife of Earl Charles Grey, who served his distinctly crafted Earl Grey tea among London’s high society. Lady Grey has become a popular alternative to Earl Grey for those who prefer a lighter tea blend.
In summary, Earl Grey and Lady Grey are both subcategories of black tea that are flavored with bergamot. Earl Grey is the classic blend with a stronger bergamot note, while Lady Grey is a more refined and gentler version with the infusion of orange and citrus peel. The choice between the two depends on personal preference in taste.
Earl Grey vs Lady Grey
Tea is a popular beverage worldwide, with 80% of American households drinking it. Earl Grey and Lady Grey are two tea flavors that have similarities and differences. In this section, we will explore the similarities, differences, and major distinguishing factor between these two tea flavors.
Similarities Between Earl Grey and Lady Grey
Earl Grey and Lady Grey share several similarities, making them popular among tea drinkers. Here are some of the similarities:
- Caffeine Content: Earl Grey and Lady Grey have the same caffeine content, which ranges from 14-60 milligrams per 8-ounce cup.
- Brewing: The recommended brewing temperature for Earl Grey and Lady Grey is around 200 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes. You can use a teaspoon of loose leaf tea for every cup of fresh spring water. You may also add sweeteners such as milk, honey, or sugar.
- Health Benefits: Both Earl Grey and Lady Grey have health benefits. A 2015 meta-analysis of 11 studies shows that 3 cups of tea per day decreases the relative risk of depression by 37%. Besides that, the black tea in Earl Grey and Lady Grey helps fight free radicals, regulate blood pressure, and protect the heart.
Differences Between Earl Grey and Lady Grey
Earl Grey and Lady Grey have differences that make them unique from each other. Here are some of the differences:
- Tea Leaf Source: Earl Grey mainly comes from Keemun, Darjeeling, and Assam black tea sourced from China, India, or Sri Lanka. Lady Grey, on the other hand, sources its tea leaves mainly from India.
- Taste: Earl Grey has a generally floral flavor with distinct citrus notes, combining orange, lemon, lime, and grapefruit. Lady Grey, on the other hand, is zestier and fruitier than Earl Grey, with lemon and orange peels added to the original Earl Grey recipe to subdue the full-bodied taste of black tea and bergamot.
Major Distinguishing Factor
The major distinguishing factor between Earl Grey and Lady Grey is that Lady Grey is a trademarked variation of Earl Grey from Twinings. While Earl Grey mainly consists of black tea and bergamot oil, producing a strong yet citrusy taste, Lady Grey adds lemon and orange peels to the original Earl Grey recipe, creating a lighter aroma and flavor.
In conclusion, Earl Grey and Lady Grey share similarities such as caffeine content, brewing recommendations, and health benefits. However, they differ in tea leaf source and taste, with Lady Grey being a trademarked variation of Earl Grey that adds lemon and orange peels to the original recipe to create a lighter aroma and flavor.
When to Use Earl Grey
Earl Grey can be enjoyed in the morning to help you wake up and get an energy boost. It can also be consumed in the evening to calm down after a busy day of work.
Black tea can quickly lower stress hormones, but be aware of caffeine levels and effects.
When to Use Lady Grey
Lady Grey tea is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a subtle and citrusy flavor that’s milder than Earl Grey. It’s an excellent option for those who are new to drinking tea. The lighter aroma and softer taste make it a great choice for a calming drink, especially before bedtime. However, keep in mind the caffeine levels to avoid disrupting your sleep.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between Earl Grey and Lady Grey, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Earl Grey has a strong flavor due to the addition of bergamot and black tea, while Lady Grey is more delicate with the addition of citrus notes. Regardless of which one you choose, a freshly brewed cup of tea can provide a delightful taste experience.
Scott is the founder of TeaMinded. He enjoys tasting and discovering teas from across the globe, with green teas and ceremonial matcha from Japan being among his favorites. He’s grateful to be immersed in the tea community, always learning and sharing along the journey.
