Is Earl Grey tea really named after a person?
It is an interesting twist that a man so well accomplished in the political arena is now known mainly for the name of one of the most popular teas in the world – Earl Grey. Yes, believe it or not, this tea is indeed named after a real person – the British Prime Minister Earl Grey (1830-1834). The origin of the specific blend is not well documented; however, there are various legends that tell about Earl Grey (or maybe one of his diplomats) saving the life of a Chinese mandarin (or his sons life) from perhaps drowning. In gratitude, the Earl was presented with the recipe for a distinctively flavored tea. The blend of Chinese or Ceylon and Indian black teas are flavored with the oil from the rind of a bergamot orange (a cross between Seville or sour orange and the sweet or pear lemon). This unique tea was reproduced by the English tea merchants using the recipe and henceforth became known as Earl Grey! What gives the Indian tea Chai that distinctly spiced flavor? The traditional Indian t
