Harney & Sons Black Earl Grey Loose Leaf Tea

The bergamot is notably stronger and more pronounced than most bagged varieties. Reviewers consistently mention the 'strong bergamot flavor and aroma' that comes through clearly. Because these are loose leaves, you're getting a more intense, fresher bergamot experience. That said, a couple of reviewers wanted even more bergamot, so if you prefer a subtle Earl Grey, this might be too bold for you.

You'll use less than you might expect. Several reviewers note that because the flavor is so concentrated, you need less tea than you would with bags—often just a teaspoon or so per cup. This helps offset the higher price point since a little goes a long way. Just be careful not to oversteep it (stick to 2-4 minutes at 212°F), as it can turn bitter if left too long.

Yes, this is actually quite forgiving for beginners. The brewing parameters are straightforward (boiling water, 2-4 minutes), and the quality is consistent. Harney & Sons is a trusted brand, so you're not gambling on quality. The tin is reusable and the leaves are long and intact, making them easy to work with. Just get a simple tea infuser and you're set—no need for fancy equipment.

You'll get bold citrus notes from the bergamot upfront, followed by a malty, smooth black tea base. It's flavorful and balanced when brewed correctly—strong enough to satisfy serious Earl Grey drinkers but not harsh. The fresh, intact leaves give it a cleaner taste compared to broken or dusty teas, though one reviewer did note some tea dust in their batch that made the brew a bit murky.

Unfortunately, no. Several reviewers specifically mention that these leaves are single-use only—they don't hold up for re-brewing like some higher-end loose leaf teas do. This is something to factor into the cost if you're used to getting multiple steeps from your tea.

There have been some reports of the tin arriving without proper sealing, which can affect freshness. A few reviewers mentioned packaging problems during shipping. It's worth checking the seal when it arrives and contacting the seller if it seems compromised. Once properly stored in the tin, though, the tea stays fresh and flavorful.