Earl Grey Faux pas?

Question

I knew that Earl Grey tea is supposed to be flavoured with "bergamot" (because the package says so), but I had no idea what bergamot was. Anyway, it's described as "citrus" so I figured, no milk, but after the first sip, I decided it was quite strong, and so I added milk and it was just right.

Several days and a dozen cups of tea later, I looked up what this bergamot was, and it's a type of orange, and so I searched for Earl Grey + milk and found a web site where it says that's taboo! Okay, but it tastes good, and I know this guy who swears by milk in his lemon-scented tea (no actual lemons in it, but like Earl Grey, has the scent of the fruit's peel).

Is there really a proscription against milk in Earl Grey? Or is that just one pedant who can html?

Answer 1

I figure that if I buy the tea, I will put in it what I want. I too like milk in tea (yes, even Earl Grey).

Answer 2

In general Earl Grey is drunk without milk, but if that's how you like it, then add milk.

Who cares what other people think?

Answer 3

who cares if you like milk add it...although i myself enjoy earl grey with lemon and sugar

Answer 4

I like Earl Grey plain and I also like it with a couple of drops of lemon. It depends on the way you like it.

Answer 5

Very interesting.  My Bigelow's Earl Grey has "natural oil of bergamot".  I never noticed that before.

I always have my Earl Grey plain.  No sugar, honey, or lemon.  I would NEVER put milk or cream in Earl Grey.  Everyone is different, and if you enjoy the flavor, then go ahead.  But, none in mine please.