Yesterday morning I had the Earl Grey Shanghai from ATR, so today I thought I’d try this.
In the sample packet there’s the same rich bergamot scent as in the Shanghai, but without the sugary aroma of the Shanghai’s Yunnan base. The leaves are very pretty, that sort of spidery ceylon look, but instead of petals strewn among the leaves, this one has shiny silver needles. Lovely.
The liquor is a light reddish brown, not quite as deep red in color as I’ve come to think of the “ceylon” color. There’s a mild aroma that is slightly spicy, slightly citrus-y, and though I smell the bergamot it’s not overpowering.
The main difference between this and the Earl Grey Shanghai is, to my tastebuds, the tea base. The Yunnan base gives the Shanghai a very substantial body, with a sweet, rich sugar/molasses/cocoa thing going on. The blend of this base, which starts with ceylon, gives the tea a more medium to light body that is still very flavorful, but tastes more like “tea.” It’s hard to think of an analogy that isn’t too hyperbolic. I was thinking the difference between a vanilla shake and cream soda, but that’s too drastic of a contrast. It reminds me of the Lady Grey in body and somewhat in taste, but without the creme.
As with the other ATR Greys, this one doesn’t overwhelm with bergamot. The balance works nicely for me.
I’m a little torn on this one. It’s a fine tea, but I prefer the nommy Yunnan base of the Shanghai. I think if I ordered the Shanghai, the Lavender and the Lady Grey, I would cover the Earl Grey bases with ATR well enough without adding this to the order. However, as always, your mileage may vary—particularly if the Yunnan-based Earl Grey isn’t your thing.
Earl Grey Shanghai sound very interesting. lately Im into Yunnan blacks and i love EG’s but i dont think i had this combo. on my list to try