Earl Grey Van Gogh: A Review of Newby's Citrus-Infused Black Tea

Earl Grey is a classic, but sometimes you want a twist. Newby's Earl Grey Van Gogh takes the familiar bergamot-forward profile and brightens it with citrus notes, creating a lively cup that feels both familiar and fresh. I've been sipping this tea for a few weeks, and here's my honest take on flavor, aroma, and how it fits into a daily tea routine.

If you're a fan of flavored black teas or curious about Newby's take on Earl Grey, this review covers everything from the dry leaf appearance to the finish. I'll also share which accessories pair best and whether this tea is worth adding to your collection.

First Impressions: Packaging and Aroma

The tea arrives in a sturdy, art-inspired caddy that feels substantial. The design nods to Van Gogh's vibrant style, making it a nice addition to any tea shelf. When you open the caddy, the aroma is immediately inviting: bergamot takes the lead, but there's a bright, almost zesty undertone that sets it apart from standard Earl Grey.

The loose leaves are well-chopped, with visible golden tips and a consistent cut that suggests good quality. No powdery dust or stems. The scent is strong but not artificial—more like a freshly peeled citrus fruit than a perfume.

• Store in a cool, dry place; the Silver-Plated Caddy Red makes a stylish airtight container for daily use.

Taste Profile: Citrus Meets Classic Black Tea

Brewed for three minutes at 100°C, the liquor is a clear amber color. The first sip delivers a smooth black tea base with medium body—not too astringent, which is a common issue with citrus-infused teas. The bergamot is present but not overpowering, and the additional lemon and orange peel add a natural sweetness that balances the tannins.

As the tea cools, the citrus notes become more pronounced, but they never turn bitter. There's a clean, refreshing finish that lingers just long enough. Compared to Newby's Royal Earl Grey, this version is brighter and less floral—ideal for afternoon drinking or iced tea.

• For a stronger citrus kick, try brewing with water just off the boil (95°C) for 4 minutes.
• Pair with a slice of lemon or a dash of honey to enhance the natural flavors.

Brewing Tips and Versatility

This tea is forgiving. I've brewed it both hot and cold, and it performs well in both scenarios. For hot tea, use one teaspoon per cup and steep for 3-4 minutes. For iced tea, double the leaf amount and brew for 5 minutes, then pour over ice. The citrus notes remain bright even when chilled, making it a great alternative to sugary iced teas.

If you're using a teapot, the Indian Breakfast Heritage Loose Leaf is a stronger option for morning, but Earl Grey Van Gogh works beautifully in a ceramic or glass pot. Avoid metal infusers for long steeps, as they can sometimes amplify bitterness.

• Try it with a splash of oat milk for a creamy citrus latte.
• Use the Capricorn Zodiac Mini Tea Caddy - Himalaya for a portable stash at your desk.

How It Compares to Other Earl Greys

Newby's Earl Grey Van Gogh sits in a sweet spot between classic Earl Grey and a fruit-infused black tea. It's more complex than a standard bergamot blend but less sweet than flavored teas like the Earl Grey Oasis By Matthew Williamson - 75g. If you enjoy citrus-forward teas but find traditional Earl Grey too floral or perfumed, this is a worthwhile try.

The black tea base is consistent with Newby's other offerings—smooth and reliable. It doesn't have the malty depth of an Indian Breakfast Heritage Loose Leaf, but that's not its goal. It's a daytime sipper, equally good with or without food.

• Compared to the Royal Earl Grey | Coronation Tea, this one is lighter and more citrusy—great for warmer weather.

Earl Grey Van Gogh is a well-executed citrus black tea that doesn't compromise on quality. The aroma is inviting, the flavor is balanced, and the packaging makes it a lovely gift or personal treat. If you're looking for a flavored black tea that's refreshing without being sweet, this is a solid choice. Just be prepared to finish the caddy quickly—it's surprisingly easy to drink.