Harney & Sons Earl Grey Loose Tea

This is a noticeable step up from mass-market brands. Multiple reviewers specifically mention it's better than Twinings, Lipton, Bigelow, and Tazo—particularly in terms of freshness and that strong, pleasant bergamot aroma. The ingredients are higher quality and the flavor is richer and more full-bodied. That said, it does come at a higher price point, so you're paying for that quality improvement.

Absolutely. This is actually a great entry point because it's a classic, purist Earl Grey—just black tea and bergamot, no vanilla or other additions to complicate things. The flavor profile is familiar if you've had Earl Grey before, but noticeably better quality. Just be mindful of steeping time (3-5 minutes max) since it can turn bitter if you leave it too long.

The bergamot here is bold and aromatic—think citrusy with a slightly floral, perfume-like quality. It's not subtle; reviewers consistently describe it as a 'strong bergamot scent and flavor' that really shines through the black tea base. If you love that classic Earl Grey character, you'll appreciate how prominent and fresh the bergamot is in this blend.

Yes, a couple of reviewers noted this isn't whole-leaf tea; it includes stems and more ground-up leaves. However, this doesn't seem to hurt the flavor—people still praise the taste and freshness. It's more of a visual thing. If you're looking for pristine whole leaves, you might be disappointed, but if you care more about how it tastes (and it tastes quite good), this won't be a dealbreaker.

Keep an eye on your timer. Multiple reviewers mention it can turn bitter if you steep it past 3-5 minutes. Start with 3-4 minutes, taste it, and adjust from there based on how strong you like it. The flavor is already bold, so you don't need to oversteep to get a full-bodied cup.

If you drink Earl Grey regularly and you're coming from grocery store brands, many reviewers say yes—the freshness, stronger bergamot, and richer flavor make it worth the investment. But if you're just an occasional Earl Grey drinker or you're on a tight budget, the price might feel steep. Think of it as a mid-tier option: better than supermarket teas, but not ultra-premium pricing either.