Lady Earl Grey Recipe

Prepare workspace and tools

Sanitize and dry a small mixing bowl, measuring spoons, a small spoon or spatula for mixing, and an airtight container for storing the blend. If using bergamot essential oil, have a dropper ready and work in a well-ventilated area.

Measure base tea

Weigh or measure 15 g of loose black tea into the mixing bowl. This is the base of the Lady Earl Grey blend and provides the bulk of the flavour and body.

Add floral and citrus components

Add 2 tsp dried lavender buds, 1 tsp dried lemon peel, 1 tbsp dried rose petals, and 1 tsp cornflower petals to the bowl with the black tea. These provide the 'Lady' character—floral and bright notes layered over the bergamot.

Incorporate vanilla

Scrape the seeds from half a vanilla bean (about 0.5 piece) directly into the tea mixture, then add the scraped pod as well if you want extra vanilla aroma while the blend rests. If you prefer, use 1/4 tsp vanilla powder instead and omit the scraped pod.

Aromatize with bergamot

Using a food-grade bergamot essential oil dropper, add 4 small drops to the tea mixture. Distribute the drops over different spots in the bowl, then gently fold the leaves with a spatula 20–30 times to spread the oil evenly. If you prefer not to use essential oil, substitute with 1–2 tsp finely grated dried bergamot rind and mix thoroughly.

Even mixing and inspection

Lift and fold the blend several times to ensure the botanicals and bergamot are evenly incorporated. Break up any large clumps of vanilla pod and spread petals so the blend is homogeneous. Smell and adjust: if you want a stronger bergamot note add 1 additional drop (wait 10 minutes and reassess).

Rest to marry flavors (recommended)

Transfer the blend to an airtight container and let it rest unopened at room temperature for at least 2–12 hours (up to 24 hours) to allow the bergamot and vanilla to infuse the leaves. This step is optional but improves aroma and flavour integration.

Brew (per cup)

To brew one 8 oz (240 ml) cup: use 2.5–3 g (about 1 heaping tsp) of the Lady Earl Grey blend. Heat fresh water to 90–95°C (195–203°F). Pour 240 ml hot water over the tea and steep for 3–4 minutes. Taste at 3 minutes; steep longer for a stronger cup but avoid over-steeping to prevent bitterness.

Serving suggestions

Serve plain to enjoy the floral notes, or add a splash of milk or a touch of honey if desired. A thin slice of lemon complements the bergamot and floral elements.

Storage

Store the blended tea in an airtight, opaque container away from heat, light, and strong odors. Use within 6 months for best aroma; the blend is at its most vibrant within the first 4 weeks after blending.

Scaling

This recipe yields a small batch intended to brew approximately six 8 oz cups (depending on scoop size). Scale ingredients proportionally for a larger batch—maintain the same ratios and add bergamot oil conservatively (add drops gradually and smell as you go).