Earl Grey tea is an iconic blend made with black tea leaves infused with oil from bergamot citrus fruit, creating an incredibly refreshing beverage often used as an alternative to coffee. Earl Grey belongs to a category known as flavored teas – any black, green, or oolong varieties enhanced with spices, flowers, oils, extracts and/or natural ingredients to give their unique flavour profile.

Earl Grey tea typically features Keemun (Qimen) or Ceylon black tea, though other varieties can sometimes be included in its composition. Each brand’s recipe may differ, including how much bergamot oil to use and whether milk should be added; since bergamot oil comes directly from fruit rinds, even small amounts can make a big impactful difference!

Caffeine content varies with Earl Grey tea depending on its size of leaves, water temperature and steeping time; however, most black teas contain approximately equal levels to coffee; one typical cup of Earl Grey contains around 50 milligrams. If you want a low caffeine option try opting for decaffeinated Earl Grey blend or herbal variant which naturally lacks caffeine content.

One of the more remarkable Earl Grey variations is a blend that combines Lapsang Souchong with Gunpowder green tea (Zhu Cha). This creates an intriguing smoky flavour, perfect for pairing with roast duck, kipper sandwiches, curry and other savoury dishes. Furthermore, this tea blend boasts strong yet not as bitter flavors than black teas, so can even be enjoyed without milk added!

Some creative teamakers have combined Earl Grey with coffee to produce an invigorating morning brew known as Staunton Earl Grey; originally created to commemorate Sir George Staunton’s visit to China in 1835, there are various brands of this blend that vary in terms of smokiness; try one out and experience its flavor for yourself!

Even though Earl Grey contains equal levels of caffeine as other black tea varieties, it remains more beneficial than coffee thanks to its lower caffeine levels and antioxidant content. Earl Grey tea leaves also boast much fewer calories than coffee; making this an effective way to stay hydrated and alert throughout your day. If caffeine avoidance or reduction are key parts of your health plan, try opting for herbal Earl Grey blends or decaffeinated varieties; there are even plenty of choices available if you prefer caffeine-free Earl Grey varieties!