This classic and always popular tea was named for Charles Grey, the second earl in his line, who was also prime minister to King William IV in the early 19th century. Usually a mix of Indian and Sri Lankan tea, the charactistic Earl Grey, regardless of which company blends it, owes its unique flavor to oil of bergamot. The Earl is said to have been given the recipe by a Chinese official with whom he was acquainted. There are many types of Earl Grey – Twinnings of course is one such, but Serentipitea, Harneys, Bigelow and especially Middle Easter Markets have other incredible Earl Grey blends. If you like Earl Grey, try different ones – I do and I like them all. They all feature the bergamot but the tea leaf blending is different and the overall flavour quite different –each and every one. To crush the whole spices, just put them in a plastic bag and roll a rolling pin over them.