I’ve had many a guest turned off by my “sugarless” earl grey which I drink most often, and almost inevitably forget that the casual tea drinker may enjoy such a tea tea a bit more with some added sweetness. So, if you find yourself recoiling from the bitter, strong taste, perhaps give it another shot with a few teaspoons of sugar.

Look: 8/10

This tea is nice and shiny, looks fresh enough. No noticeable “dusting” or splintered pieces.

Smell: 9/10

Nearly the perfect nose! Wonderful, aromatic black tea scent hiding behind a powerful wave of bergamot delight. Hints of tobacco, chocolate and orange peel.

Feel: 7/10

A bit dryer than I had expected from the visual. When rolled in the fingers, pieces would break and crumble as if they’d had a few too many “waftings” in Teavana’s tins.

Steep: 8/10

Nice flavor. A bit too bitter and unbalanced for a ‘top shelf’ earl grey. Good, generic black tea taste, but much to my dismay the overpowering scent of bergamot didn’t translate into much if any flavor.

Overall a middle shelf offering, nothing too exciting but still strong enough for an every-day drink if Teavana is your brand of choice.

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Recommended for: Moderate to Heavy Tea Drinkers, Earl Grey Lovers, Teavana Fans