What is bergamot orange, and why is it so important in tea and perfumery?
Bergamot orange (Citrus bergamia) is a small, intensely fragrant citrus fruit grown mainly in Calabria, Italy, thought to be a natural cross between bitter orange and lemon or lime. The fruit itself is too sour to eat fresh, but its peel yields a prized essential oil valued for its bright, zesty-floral aroma.
- In perfumery, bergamot oil is the classic top note in eau de cologne, giving that fresh citrus lift before deeper notes settle in.
- In tea, bergamot oil is what makes Earl Grey Earl Grey - its citrusy, slightly floral character pairs beautifully with black tea.
- To taste that pairing yourself, try our Earl Grey Lavender Tea, a classic Earl Grey blend with a floral twist from lavender.