Russian Earl Grey

Cup Characteristics: All natural Thai Lemongrass and Spanish orange infuse premium Earl Grey with sultry citrus notes.

Infusion: Bright, with pleasing citrus overtone and mellow finish.

Ingredients: Black tea, Lemon grass, Clover, Lemon & Orange peel, Cinnamon pieces, Cornflower & Calendula petals, Natural flavors.

Information: Tea has been consumed in Russia for centuries. The drink was first introduced to the country during the Tsarist era in 1618. The Chinese ambassador to Moscow at the time presented Tsar Michael Fedorovich with several chests of tea as a gift. Although the Tsar accepted the gift with legendary Russian grace, the tea was not at first very well received. The Tsar and the people of his court were accustomed to drinking warm fruit and herbal beverages, and found that the new beverage was slightly bitter. According to Russian folklore, it was one of Tsar Michael’s chefs who struck upon the idea of adding fruit and spice to the tea in order to enhance its flavor. Various blends were experimented with using combinations of ginger, salt, orange peel, rice, onions, and various herbs and spices. The most popular of these blends however were the more heavily sweetened versions based on citrus fruit. As years wore on, tea consumed in this fashion spread throughout Russia, and Samavors, a unique and traditional Russian tea pot became ubiquitous throughout the continent. To this day, Russians are among the highest per capita tea drinkers in the world and enjoy the drink at all times of the day. In honor of Tsar Michael, (and his kitchen staff!), our Master blender developed this fantastic Russian Earl Grey. In keeping with Russian tradition we’ve added sweet orange peel and a mellowing herb – all natural lemongrass, in addition to the tart character of bergamot, (the citrus fruit used to flavor all Earl Greys). You will find this tea to be at once sweet, and exceptionally soothing. Add a splash of milk to really bring out the citrus overtones of this blend – or, add some sugar and sweeten it up Russian style! Either way, this is one tea you’ll want to savor all day long.