Earl Grey vs. Royal Grey: What's the Difference and Which Should You Try?

Quick Answer

Earl Grey and Royal Grey are both bergamot-flavored black teas, but Royal Grey typically uses a more delicate base and adds blue cornflower or other citrus notes. If you prefer a classic, robust cup, choose Earl Grey; if you want something smoother and more floral, Royal Grey is your pick.

Bergamot tea lovers often wonder about the difference between Earl Grey and Royal Grey. Both are beloved for their citrusy aroma, but they are not the same. Understanding their distinct flavor profiles and base teas can help you choose the one that matches your taste.

In this comparison, we'll break down the key differences, look at how they're brewed, and help you decide which bergamot tea deserves a spot in your cupboard.

What Is Earl Grey?

Earl Grey is a classic black tea flavored with oil from the bergamot orange, a citrus fruit grown mainly in Italy. The base is typically a robust black tea, giving it a bold, brisk character. The bergamot adds a bright, slightly floral citrus note that balances the tea's natural maltiness.

Because the base is strong, Earl Grey stands up well to milk and sweetener, making it a favorite for afternoon tea. Its flavor profile is straightforward: tea-forward with a clear citrus kick. If you're new to bergamot teas, Earl Grey is the benchmark.

• Look for a loose-leaf Earl Grey with visible bergamot oil for the freshest flavor.

What Is Royal Grey?

Royal Grey is a variation that often uses a lighter, more delicate black tea base, sometimes blended with green tea. It also includes additional citrus elements like blue cornflower petals or lemon, giving it a more complex and floral aroma. The result is a smoother, less astringent cup compared to traditional Earl Grey.

Royal Grey is often chosen by those who find Earl Grey too sharp or who prefer a more fragrant, layered tea. It's excellent plain, though it can also take milk if you prefer a creamier texture.

• If you're sensitive to bitterness, Royal Grey's milder base may be more forgiving.

Caffeine and Brewing Differences

Both Earl Grey and Royal Grey are typically made from caffeinated black tea, so their caffeine content is similar—roughly 40-70 mg per 8-ounce cup, depending on leaf amount and steep time. However, if a Royal Grey blend includes green tea, the caffeine may be slightly lower.

Brewing recommendations are similar: use water just off the boil (around 200°F) and steep for 3-5 minutes. A longer steep extracts more flavor but also more bitterness. For a smoother cup, start with 3 minutes and adjust to taste.

• Use about 1 teaspoon of loose leaf per 8 ounces of water for a balanced brew.

Tradeoffs at a Glance

• Flavor intensity: Earl Grey offers a bold, brisk citrus kick. Royal Grey is smoother and more floral. Choose Earl Grey for a classic punch; Royal Grey for a gentler cup.
• Base tea: Earl Grey uses a strong black base. Royal Grey often uses a lighter black or green blend. If you find black tea too heavy, Royal Grey may be more approachable.
• Caffeine: Both are caffeinated, but Royal Grey with green tea may have slightly less. For a caffeine-free citrus tea, consider rooibos blends.
• Brewing: Similar brewing: 200°F water, 3-5 minutes. Adjust for strength. Start with 3 minutes to avoid bitterness.

Teas to Try from Lake Missoula Tea Co.

• Royal Lapsang: Royal Lapsang is an exquisite, slightly smoked black tea. With hints of dried plum and molasses, this single origin, smooth tea could easily become your favorite. This style is more subtle and complex compared to your typical Lapsang Souchong (a bold smoked tea). If you enjoy the smooth, layered character of Royal Grey, Royal Lapsang offers a different but equally refined black tea experience with a subtle smoky twist.
• Blood Orange Rooibos: Blood Orange Rooibos wins over tea lovers with its perfectly cozy notes of sweet apple, rose, and vanilla. Naturally smooth and creamy rooibos leads to that orange-bright finish, inviting another sip, and then another. If you love the citrus brightness of bergamot teas but want a caffeine-free option, this rooibos blend delivers a similar orange-forward flavor with a creamy, non-caffeinated base.

Which Should You Choose?

Best for

• Classic Earl Grey lovers who enjoy a bold, brisk citrus tea that pairs well with milk.
• Those who want a straightforward bergamot flavor without extra floral notes.

Not for

• If you prefer a smoother, more delicate cup with floral undertones, Royal Grey is a better choice.
• If you're caffeine-sensitive, neither Earl Grey nor Royal Grey is ideal—try a caffeine-free rooibos blend instead.

Both Earl Grey and Royal Grey are wonderful bergamot teas, but they serve different preferences. Earl Grey is the classic, robust choice; Royal Grey offers a more refined, floral experience. Whichever you pick, brew it well and enjoy the citrusy comfort.