The Best Earl Grey Tea Brands: A Blind Taste Test of 12 Grocery Favorites
We put 12 popular Earl Grey teas to the test—discover which grocery brands stand out in flavor, aroma, and value.
Earl Grey is one of the most iconic and beloved teas in the world. Defined by its essential ingredient—bergamot oil—it brings together brisk black tea and citrusy, floral notes for a cup that feels both comforting and sophisticated. But with so many Earl Grey blends filling grocery store shelves, how do you know which brew deserves a spot in your mug?
To find the answer, we assembled 12 of the most commonly available Earl Grey teas. Using a blind taste testing process, each brand’s offering was judged for balance, aroma, bergamot intensity, body, and overall drinkability. Here’s everything you need to know about these grocery aisle classics—and which one you should savor next.
What Is Earl Grey Tea?
Earl Grey is a fragrant black tea infused (traditionally) with oil of bergamot, a type of citrus grown primarily in Italy. The flavor profile is usually a blend of malty, robust black tea with tart, floral, and sometimes slightly bitter citrus.
- Origin: Named after Charles Grey, British Prime Minister (1830-1834)
- Traditional base: Black tea (often Assam, Ceylon, or Chinese teas)
- Key flavor: Oil of bergamot (bitter orange)
- Variants: Some add lavender, vanilla, or more exotic botanicals
Despite its English heritage, Earl Grey has become a global favorite, enjoyed plain or with a splash of milk, sweetener, or even as a base for lattes and iced drinks.
How We Tested
To create a fair comparison, all brands were brewed under identical conditions: bagged teas steeped in freshly boiled water for three minutes, loose leaf (if applicable) by package directions. No milk or sugar was added during testing. The teas were scored on:
- Bergamot aroma and strength
- Tea base quality and body
- Balance between tea and citrus
- Astringency and bitterness
- Overall enjoyment
The Grocery Store Earl Grey Contenders
Below you’ll find the 12 major brands reviewed, plus notes on what makes each unique. (Loose leaf variants from the same brand were sometimes included if commonly available in stores.)
Ranking Table: Earl Grey Teas at a Glance
| Brand | Bergamot Intensity | Tea Body | Scent | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harney & Sons | Medium-High | Complex, smooth | Floral, layered | Includes white tea, premium tins |
| Twinings | Medium | Classic, light | Citrusy, fresh | Quintessential, also available decaf |
| Bigelow | Moderate | Assertive, bold | Strong bergamot | Budget-friendly, high caffeine |
| Numi | Balanced | Full-bodied | Natural, complex | Single-source Assam, real bergamot |
| Trader Joe’s | Moderate (can be bitter) | Basic, practical | Straightforward | Best for lattes or iced tea |
| The Tea Keepers | High (vanilla-heavy) | Smooth | Bergamot and vanilla | Vanilla-forward, uses real oils |
| T2 | Subtle | Refined, no bitterness | Fresh, light | Great balance, can drink plain |
| Sama Tea | Low-Medium | Balanced | Sweet and floral | Gentle citrus, for less intense palates |
| Taylors of Harrogate | Bright, citrusy | Invigorating, robust | Citrus-forward | Loose-leaf, punchy flavor |
| Tetley | Mild | Clean | Delicate | Lighter on bergamot, budget choice |
| Tazo | Very strong | Rich | Pungent, bold | Maximum punch, high caffeine |
| Adagio | Light, soothing | Delicate, sweet | Soft citrus | Loose leaf, understated |
Full Brand Reviews
Harney & Sons
Unlike most Earl Greys, Harney & Sons blends black and white tea with bergamot oil, yielding a more complex, layered cup. The result is floral, mellow, and bold—ideal for those seeking nuance rather than astringency. The brand’s signature metal tins also add a touch of elegance to any pantry. Their stewardship of tea quality and sustainability makes this a favorite for connoisseurs and casual sippers alike.
Best for: Cold afternoons, gifting, fans of gentle complexity
Twinings
The Twinings Earl Grey is quintessential: balanced, subtle, and inviting. Its black tea base is on the lighter side, perfect for those who enjoy a smoother cup. Twinings’ decaf version preserves the bergamot aroma for caffeine-free enjoyment. Easy to find and beloved for generations, it is a gentle introduction to this classic style.
Best for: Everyday sipping, those seeking a mellow cup, decaf lovers
Bigelow
Bigelow is the workhorse of grocery store teas—reliable, straightforward, and amply caffeinated. Its bergamot flavor is distinct but not overpowering. While not the most exotic or complex, it is perfect for an accessible, morning pick-me-up.
Best for: Budget shopping, strong breakfast tea, “builder’s tea” fans
Numi
Numi brings a refined touch, using single-source Assam black tea and real bergamot. The flavor is balanced, malty, and fragrant. It’s an excellent cup for those wanting premium tea quality in a convenient format.
Best for: Lovers of natural ingredients, thoughtful gifts, mindful sipping
Trader Joe’s
Don’t overlook Trader Joe’s Organic Earl Grey. While it can be somewhat basic—and prone to bitterness if oversteeped—it makes a fabulous base for iced teas and tea lattes. Its affordability is its strongest asset.
Best for: Iced tea drinkers, budget lattes, experimentation with blends
The Tea Keepers
The Tea Keepers stands out for its vanilla-forward profile, with pronounced bergamot and high-quality Assam tea. Ideal for those seeking a sweeter tea with authentic ingredients.
Best for: Vanilla lovers, dessert-style tea fans
T2
T2 delivers a refined, well-balanced cup devoid of harshness or bitterness. With a flavor profile that is full-bodied but not overpowering, T2 is a gentle and polished choice.
Best for: Drinking plain, refined palates, avoiding milk
Sama Tea
If you steer clear of strong citrus, Sama Tea’s muted bergamot is worth a try. The blend is sweet, clean, and round—designed for those wary of sharp flavors.
Best for: Citrus-averse drinkers, smooth profiles
Taylors of Harrogate
For those who love a bold, citrusy punch, Taylors of Harrogate is a standout. Its loose-leaf format gives bright aromas and a wake-you-up attitude.
Best for: Those wanting morning zest, loose-leaf aficionados
Tetley
Tetley’s Earl Grey offers a toned-down approach to bergamot. It’s clean, mellow, and very accessible, making it a reliable everyday choice—especially for those just dipping into the category.
Best for: All-day sipping, newbies
Tazo
If strong is your style, Tazo pulls no punches. Its bergamot is robust, and the black tea is assertive—ideal for mornings or anyone who wants their Earl Grey to shout.
Best for: Powerful cups, mornings, tea latte bases
Adagio
Adagio’s loose-leaf Earl Grey is calming, with a soft black tea base that lets subtle citrus notes rest atop every sip. The understated profile is soothing, like a spa treatment in a cup.
Best for: Relaxation, spa day vibes, loose-leaf teas
Earl Grey Tea FAQs
Q: What exactly is bergamot, and why is it essential for Earl Grey?
A: Bergamot is a fragrant citrus fruit (Citrus bergamia) grown mostly in Italy. Its essential oil delivers the signature aroma and floral-citrus flavor that sets Earl Grey apart from other black teas.
Q: Does Earl Grey tea contain caffeine?
A: Yes, as a black tea, Earl Grey contains caffeine unless labeled “decaf.” The caffeine amount varies by brand and steeping time but typically ranges from 40–65 mg per cup.
Q: Can I add milk to Earl Grey tea?
A: Absolutely. Many tea drinkers enjoy Earl Grey with a splash of milk or cream, although the lighter citrus notes may be less pronounced. For another twist, try adding honey, straight lemon, or enjoy it as the base for a “London Fog” tea latte.
Q: Are there herbal or caffeine-free Earl Grey options?
A: Some brands offer “Rooibos Earl Grey” or herbal versions flavored with bergamot but no black tea, ideal for caffeine-free enjoyment. Twinings also offers a decaf black tea Earl Grey with similar flavor to the classic.
How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Earl Grey
- Use freshly drawn water, just off the boil (around 200°F or 93°C)
- Steep bagged or loose leaf for 3-4 minutes (avoid oversteeping to prevent bitterness)
- Enjoy black, or add milk, lemon, or sweetener to taste
- Try chilled with ice for a refreshing summer tea
Creative Ways to Enjoy Earl Grey
- London Fog Latte: Brew strong Earl Grey, add steamed milk and vanilla syrup
- Iced Tea: Chill your favorite blend and serve over ice with lemon slices
- Baking: Use brewed or infused Earl Grey in cakes, cookies, or frostings for floral-citrus depth
- Cocktails: Try Earl Grey syrups in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a purist enjoying your cup straight or a fan of milky “London Fogs,” there’s an Earl Grey tea to match every palate and budget. From the complexity of Harney & Sons to the accessible classics like Twinings, it’s clear that grocery shelves offer wonderful options for both new and seasoned fans alike. Don’t be afraid to experiment: the only rule is to savor every sip.
