My Overall Impression (Score of 85.0%)

If you can’t tell from my previous reviews, I’m a big fan of Earl Grey.  This version from House of Tea in Canada needs to be explored.  I can not stress this enough.  It’s incredible value for the price to end up with a flavorful quality tea that’s multi-dimensional.

From the inviting rich  color to the complex deep aromas to the unique mouthfeel, this tea takes you for a journey.  Its full body and yet the tannins seem to be integrated and hide from you.  Great flavors that are bold.  This is one you should try.

The price as of 4/27/23 is $16.95 Canadian for 100 grams.

Broken down:

• 100 gm / 3 gm for steeping = 33 cups
• 33 cups from package = app 51.4 cents per cup (Canadian Pricing)

Typically, I double steep all my teas (use the tea twice) so I can get 66 cups or approximately 26 cents per cup Canadian.  Once you have converted this to US Dollars, I think you will realize that the price is fantastic for the value. 

Quick note: Again, they mail order.  While it’s worth visiting the shop, you can purchase from them online.

Aromas

• Opening the package, intense bergamot aromas with a slow smoky finish.
• There are hints of something floral (I’m thinking violets), some lemon rind and a floral perfume tone.
• In the cup, the bergamot is well paired with the toasted malt tones.
• It also shows hints of leather, oak, sage, molasses, and something floral (orchid, lilac and or violet).

Flavors

• This tea is slightly off dry which is blended incredibly with the acid and tannins. This is all tied in with the full body of the tea, but it does not show that weight (it’s like hiding it).
• The blend of the malt, bergamot and dusty floral notes are amazing.
• This tea shows a consistent, long lasting flavor profile over its length and finishes with a hint of black pepper.
• It also shows hints of lavender, thyme, oregano, and caramel.

Scores

• Aromas (4.4/5)
• Flavors (8.3/10)
• Overall impression (4.3/5)
  • Total score = 85.0 percent (17.0/20)

Foods to Pair and Why

• Garden fresh vegetable pasta salad with lavender vinaigrette to match the flavors, mouthfeel, aromas, and acid levels,
• Citrus upside-down olive oil cake to match the flavors, aromas, acid levels and mouthfeel.
• Bangers and Mash just because it sounds good, and it will match the mouthfeel, body, and acid levels.
• Ham steak and eggs with red eye gravy to match the mouthfeel, sweetness, flavors, and acid levels.
• Roasted chicken with butter and herbs d’ Provence.