Tea Blog

Name: Tippy Earl Grey

Brand: Golden Moon

Type: Black tea, flavored

Form: Loose leaf

Review: It does seem that every tea company has to have its own version of Earl Grey. In fact, I recall a tearoom that proudly declared that it did not offer any teas that are “adulterated” with “flavorings” while unblinkingly including an Earl Grey on its menu. Earl Grey is simply an ingrained part of Western tea culture, and it seems that just about every tea-drinker has their own favorite version of this classic bergamot-flavored black tea.

I think I’ve found mine.

When I opened the package of Tippy Early Grey, I was concerned that this tea would not be to my liking. The bergamot nose was strong and I thought it might overwhelm the tea. But when the dark brown, wiry leaf with a bit of golden tip infused to a dark red-brown liquor, the uber-strong dry nose softened. I sipped, and I sipped again, while the bergamot was sweet and citrusy, it did not overwhelm the very tasty tea. The entire cup was incredibly balanced, leaving no unpleasant aftertaste, which can be a sign of a poorly or cheaply flavored Earl Grey.

Incidentally, Tippy Earl Grey also includes a bit of lavender. While I have tried lavender Earl Grey teas in the past, this particular blend differs from the others in that the lavender is extremely subtle. Instead of tasting lavender, I instead detect a light floral note that becomes especially sweet at the finish. This tea also works well for a second steeping, and is quite delicious when served as an iced tea.

Tippy Earl Grey is a delicious tea that should appeal to most Earl Grey lovers. It is well crafted and well balanced, and is wonderful for sipping as well as a good match with traditional tea sandwiches and cakes. Highly recommended.

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