What Is Rooibos Earl Grey Tea? Caffeine, Decaf, Taste & How to Enjoy It
OBARASOTAROWhat Is Rooibos Earl Grey Tea? Caffeine, Decaf, Taste & How to Enjoy It
Love the distinctive aroma of Earl Grey, but feel like trying something a little different from your usual black tea?
Then Rooibos Earl Grey may be just the tea to discover.
Rooibos Earl Grey is a flavoured tea that combines a rooibos base with the distinctive citrus aroma of bergamot that Earl Grey is famous for.
While traditional Earl Grey is typically made with black tea, Rooibos Earl Grey offers a different experience, combining the smooth, mellow character of rooibos with the bright citrus aroma of bergamot.
In this guide, we'll explore:
- What is Rooibos Earl Grey tea?
- How is it different from traditional Earl Grey?
- Is Rooibos Earl Grey the same as decaf Earl Grey?
- Does it contain caffeine?
- What does Rooibos Earl Grey taste like?
- Can you enjoy it hot, iced, with milk, or as a chai?
We'll also take a closer look at Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey Tea from New Zealand and explore some delicious ways to enjoy this distinctive blend.
What Is Rooibos Earl Grey Tea?
Rooibos Earl Grey is a flavoured tea made by combining rooibos with the distinctive bergamot aroma associated with Earl Grey.
Earl Grey is sometimes thought of as a particular type of tea leaf, but what gives Earl Grey its distinctive character is actually its fragrant citrus aroma of bergamot.
This means Earl Grey-style teas do not necessarily have to be based on black tea. Bergamot can also be paired with other bases, including rooibos.
In Rooibos Earl Grey, the body and astringency associated with black tea are replaced by the softer, smoother flavour of rooibos, while the distinctive aroma of bergamot remains at the heart of the blend.
This makes it an interesting choice for anyone who loves the fragrance of Earl Grey but would like to explore a different style of tea.
What Is Rooibos?
Rooibos is a leguminous plant native to southern Africa.
It comes from a different plant from Camellia sinensis, the tea plant used to make traditional black, green, and oolong teas.
When brewed, rooibos produces a beautiful reddish-brown infusion with a distinctive smooth and mellow flavour.
It can be enjoyed on its own or blended with a wide variety of flavours, including fruit, spices, vanilla, and bergamot.
Red Rooibos vs Green Rooibos
Rooibos is generally available in two main styles: red rooibos and green rooibos.
The familiar reddish-brown rooibos tea is red rooibos, which undergoes oxidation during processing.
Green rooibos is processed to minimise oxidation, resulting in differences in colour, aroma, and flavour.
Neither is inherently better than the other. They simply offer different flavour profiles, allowing you to choose according to your personal preference.
What Is Earl Grey Tea?
Earl Grey is a flavoured tea distinguished by the aroma of bergamot.
The best-known versions are made with black tea, combining the body and character of tea with the fresh, aromatic citrus notes of bergamot.
Unlike names such as Darjeeling or Assam, “Earl Grey” does not refer to a specific variety of tea leaf.
Different tea bases can be paired with bergamot to create different styles of Earl Grey, including:
- Black tea-based Earl Grey
- Green tea-based Earl Grey
- Rooibos-based Earl Grey
Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey belongs to the third category, using rooibos rather than traditional black tea as its base.
What Is Bergamot? The Signature Aroma of Earl Grey
The distinctive fragrance that gives Earl Grey its unmistakable character comes from bergamot.
Bergamot is a citrus fruit known for its highly aromatic peel.
Its fragrance combines fresh citrus notes reminiscent of lemon and orange with a distinctive floral and slightly bittersweet character.
In traditional Earl Grey, bergamot complements the body and astringency of black tea. In Rooibos Earl Grey, the same aromatic character is paired with the softer, mellow flavour of rooibos.
As a result, two teas can both be called “Earl Grey” while offering noticeably different drinking experiences depending on the tea used as the base.
Rooibos Earl Grey vs Traditional Earl Grey
The biggest difference between Rooibos Earl Grey and traditional Earl Grey is the base ingredient.
| Comparison | Rooibos Earl Grey | Traditional Earl Grey |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Rooibos | Usually black tea |
| Plant | Rooibos, a member of the legume family | Camellia sinensis |
| Aroma | Citrusy bergamot aroma | Citrusy bergamot aroma |
| Flavour | Smooth, mellow and light | Fuller-bodied with characteristic tea astringency |
| Caffeine | Varies by product | Typically contains caffeine |
In other words, Rooibos Earl Grey is not simply traditional Earl Grey with the caffeine removed.
The base plant itself is different.
Does Rooibos Earl Grey Contain Caffeine?
Traditional black tea is made from the leaves of Camellia sinensis and naturally contains caffeine.
Rooibos comes from a completely different plant. However, when choosing a Rooibos Earl Grey product, it is important not to assume that “rooibos-based” automatically means “caffeine-free.”
The caffeine content can vary depending on the individual product and blend, so always check the product information if caffeine intake is important to you.
Caffeine in Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey
Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey Tea contains significantly less caffeine than traditional black tea, although trace amounts of caffeine may be present.
For this reason, we do not describe this particular product as “caffeine-free” or “zero caffeine.”
If you completely avoid caffeine or carefully monitor your caffeine intake, please keep this in mind when choosing this tea.
Rooibos Earl Grey vs Decaf Earl Grey
Rooibos Earl Grey and decaf Earl Grey are not the same thing.
Decaf Earl Grey is generally made from black tea that originally contained caffeine and has undergone a process to remove most of it, before being paired with the characteristic aroma of bergamot.
Rooibos Earl Grey, on the other hand, uses rooibos — a different plant from traditional tea — as its base.
| Comparison | Rooibos Earl Grey | Decaf Earl Grey |
|---|---|---|
| Main Base | Rooibos | Black tea |
| Plant | Rooibos, a member of the legume family | Camellia sinensis |
| Bergamot | Yes | Yes |
| Flavour | Smooth, mellow and light | More characteristic of traditional black tea |
| Caffeine | Varies by product | Most caffeine is removed, although trace amounts may remain depending on the product |
When choosing between the two, caffeine is not the only consideration.
It can also come down to whether you prefer the familiar character of black tea or the softer, distinctive flavour of rooibos.
Caffeine-Free, Decaf and Low-Caffeine: What’s the Difference?
When looking for drinks with less caffeine, you may come across terms such as “caffeine-free,” “decaf,” and “low-caffeine.” These terms do not necessarily mean the same thing.
Caffeine-Free
“Caffeine-free” is generally used for beverages made from ingredients that do not naturally contain caffeine.
Decaf
Decaf (decaffeinated) generally refers to products made from ingredients that naturally contain caffeine, such as coffee beans or tea leaves, from which most of the caffeine has been removed during processing.
“Decaf” does not necessarily mean that absolutely no caffeine remains.
Low-Caffeine
“Low-caffeine” is generally used to describe a product that contains a relatively small amount of caffeine.
However, definitions and labelling requirements can vary depending on the product category and the country or region in which the product is sold.
If you need to avoid caffeine completely, it is best to check the information provided for the individual product rather than relying on a general term alone.
What Does Rooibos Earl Grey Taste Like?
The appeal of Rooibos Earl Grey can be summed up simply as the distinctive citrus aroma of Earl Grey paired with the smooth, mellow character of rooibos.
Traditional Earl Grey combines the body and astringency of black tea with the bright, aromatic character of bergamot.
Rooibos Earl Grey offers a different experience. Because rooibos is used as the base, the flavour tends to be softer and lighter, while the refreshing aroma of bergamot remains immediately recognisable.
A Bright, Citrusy Bergamot Aroma
One of the first things you may notice when hot water is added is the distinctive citrus fragrance of bergamot.
Taking a moment to enjoy the aroma rising from the cup before your first sip is part of the pleasure of drinking Earl Grey.
The Smooth Character of Rooibos
Rooibos has a different flavour profile from black tea and does not have the same pronounced tea-like astringency.
When combined with bergamot, the flavour of the rooibos remains part of the experience, allowing you to enjoy the character of both rooibos and Earl Grey in the same cup.
What If You’re Not a Fan of Plain Rooibos?
Rooibos has its own distinctive flavour, and not everyone enjoys plain rooibos in the same way.
Adding the aromatic citrus character of bergamot creates a noticeably different flavour experience from unflavoured rooibos.
Taste is always personal, but Rooibos Earl Grey can be an interesting option if you would like to explore rooibos in a different style.
Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey Tea
Created by New Zealand tea brand Tea Total, Rooibos Earl Grey Tea brings together the distinctive aroma of Earl Grey with the mellow character of rooibos.
Made with rooibos from Madagascar and the familiar aroma of bergamot, this carefully balanced blend offers a fresh citrus fragrance alongside the smooth, gentle flavour of rooibos.
The result is a refreshing yet well-rounded cup with a lighter character than a traditional black tea-based Earl Grey.
Who Might Enjoy Rooibos Earl Grey?
- Those who love the distinctive bergamot aroma of Earl Grey
- Anyone looking to try a different style of Earl Grey
- Those interested in exploring flavoured rooibos teas
- Anyone who prefers a lighter flavour than traditional black tea
- Those looking for something different from plain rooibos
- Anyone who enjoys experimenting with iced tea, milk tea, and other tea variations
※ This product is rooibos-based and contains significantly less caffeine than traditional black tea; however, trace amounts of caffeine may be present.
Shop Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey Tea 100g
How to Brew Rooibos Earl Grey Tea
One of the best ways to discover Rooibos Earl Grey is to begin with a simple cup of hot tea.
Enjoying it without milk, sweetener, or other additions first allows you to experience the balance between the aroma of bergamot and the distinctive flavour of rooibos.
Basic Hot Rooibos Earl Grey
For one cup:
- Rooibos Earl Grey: use the amount recommended on the product packaging
- Fresh hot water: approximately 200ml
- Steeping time: approximately 3–5 minutes
- Place the Rooibos Earl Grey into a teapot or tea infuser.
- Pour in approximately 200ml of fresh hot water.
- Allow the tea to steep for around 3–5 minutes.
- Remove the tea leaves and enjoy the aroma and flavour.
If this is your first time trying Rooibos Earl Grey, start by drinking it straight.
Once you are familiar with the balance of rooibos and bergamot, you can adjust the strength or explore different ways to enjoy it.
How to Make Iced Rooibos Earl Grey
The bright citrus aroma of bergamot also makes Rooibos Earl Grey an enjoyable choice for iced tea.
- Brew the Rooibos Earl Grey slightly stronger than you would for a regular hot cup.
- Fill a glass generously with ice.
- Pour the freshly brewed tea over the ice.
- Stir gently and allow it to chill before serving.
Brewing the tea slightly stronger helps compensate for the dilution caused by melting ice.
For an extra citrus touch, add a slice of lemon or orange.
If you prepare iced tea in advance, store it in a clean container in the refrigerator and enjoy it as soon as reasonably possible.
Rooibos Earl Grey with Lemon, Orange or Honey
If you enjoy citrus flavours, try adding a small slice of lemon or orange to your Rooibos Earl Grey.
Because the tea already has the distinctive citrus aroma of bergamot, fresh citrus can add another layer to the overall flavour.
If you prefer a little sweetness, a small amount of honey can also be added. Start with a little and adjust according to your taste so that the sweetness does not overpower the bergamot and rooibos.
※ Honey should not be given to children under 12 months of age.
How to Make Rooibos Earl Grey Milk Tea
If you enjoy Earl Grey with milk, Rooibos Earl Grey milk tea is another way to experience this blend.
The smoothness of the milk combines with the fragrant bergamot and mellow rooibos to create a softer, creamier cup.
- Brew the Rooibos Earl Grey slightly stronger than usual.
- Add your preferred amount of warmed milk.
- If desired, add a little honey or another sweetener to taste.
You can use dairy milk or experiment with your preferred plant-based milk to find the combination you enjoy most.
How to Make Rooibos Earl Grey Chai
If you feel like trying something a little different, Rooibos Earl Grey Chai is another delicious way to enjoy this tea.
The mellow character of rooibos, distinctive bergamot aroma, warming spices, and milk come together to create a cup that is quite different from a traditional black tea chai.
What You'll Need
- Rooibos Earl Grey tea
- Water
- Dairy milk or your preferred milk alternative
- Cinnamon
- Cardamom
- Ginger
- Honey or another sweetener, if desired
How to Make It
- Add water and Rooibos Earl Grey tea to a small saucepan.
- Add your preferred spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger.
- Gently heat until the flavours and aromas begin to develop.
- Add the milk and continue heating gently without allowing it to boil over.
- Strain the tea and spices into a cup.
- Sweeten to taste, if desired.
Because strong spices can easily overpower the distinctive aroma of bergamot, start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste.
Enjoy Rooibos Earl Grey Throughout the Seasons
- Spring: Enjoy it straight or add a slice of lemon for a fresh citrus touch.
- Summer: Serve it over plenty of ice for a refreshing iced tea.
- Autumn: Add milk for a softer, creamier cup.
- Winter: Try it chai-style with cinnamon, ginger, or other favourite spices.
There is no single “correct” way to enjoy Rooibos Earl Grey. Experiment with different serving styles and discover the combination that suits your taste and the occasion.
Can You Drink Rooibos Earl Grey at Night?
Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey contains significantly less caffeine than traditional black tea; however, trace amounts of caffeine may be present.
Individual sensitivity to caffeine varies, so if you prefer to limit caffeine later in the day, consider the timing and amount you drink according to your own needs.
This tea is not intended to help you fall asleep or improve sleep quality.
Instead, it can simply be enjoyed for its aroma and flavour as part of an evening tea break — perhaps after dinner, while reading a book, or while watching a film.
What About Caffeine During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding?
If you are monitoring your caffeine intake during pregnancy or breastfeeding, it is useful to consider your overall daily caffeine intake rather than looking at a single drink in isolation.
Caffeine can also be found in other foods and beverages, including coffee, black tea, green tea, chocolate, and some other drinks.
Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey contains significantly less caffeine than traditional black tea, although trace amounts may be present.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and have concerns about caffeine intake, or if you have been given individual advice about how much caffeine to consume, please consult your doctor, midwife, or another qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rooibos Earl Grey
Q1. Is Rooibos Earl Grey the Same as Decaf Earl Grey?
No. Decaf Earl Grey is generally made with black tea from which most of the caffeine has been removed, while Rooibos Earl Grey uses rooibos as its base and combines it with the distinctive aroma of bergamot.
Q2. Is Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey Caffeine-Free?
No. It contains significantly less caffeine than traditional black tea; however, trace amounts of caffeine may be present. For this reason, we do not describe this product as “caffeine-free” or “zero caffeine.”
Q3. How Is Rooibos Earl Grey Different from Traditional Earl Grey?
The main difference is the base ingredient. Traditional Earl Grey is usually made with black tea, while Rooibos Earl Grey uses rooibos. Both feature the distinctive aroma of bergamot, but their flavour profiles are different.
Q4. What Does Rooibos Earl Grey Taste Like?
It combines the smooth, mellow character of rooibos with the fresh citrus aroma of bergamot, offering a lighter and softer flavour profile than traditional black tea-based Earl Grey.
Q5. Can You Add Milk to Rooibos Earl Grey?
Yes. Brew it slightly stronger and add warm milk for a softer, creamier cup.
Q6. Can You Make Iced Rooibos Earl Grey?
Yes. Brew it slightly stronger than usual and pour it over plenty of ice. A slice of lemon or orange can also be added for an extra citrus touch.
Q7. Can You Drink Rooibos Earl Grey Every Day?
Rooibos Earl Grey can be enjoyed as part of your tea routine according to your personal taste and lifestyle.
There is no need to increase the amount or frequency you drink in pursuit of a particular health benefit. If you are limiting caffeine, remember that Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey may contain trace amounts and consider your overall caffeine intake from other foods and beverages as well.
Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey Tea 100g
Created by New Zealand tea brand Tea Total, Rooibos Earl Grey Tea combines rooibos from Madagascar with the distinctive aroma of bergamot.
The bright citrus fragrance complements the smooth, mellow flavour of rooibos, creating a lighter drinking experience than a traditional black tea-based Earl Grey.
Try it straight first to discover the balance of rooibos and bergamot, then explore different ways to enjoy it — iced, with milk, with lemon or orange, or even as a chai-style tea.
※ This product is rooibos-based and contains significantly less caffeine than traditional black tea; however, trace amounts of caffeine may be present.
▼ Shop the Tea
Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey Tea 100g
Discover More Tea Total Teas
Tea Total offers a wide variety of teas beyond Rooibos Earl Grey, with different flavours and aromas to explore.
From classic rooibos to flavoured teas, you can choose a different cup to suit the season, occasion, or simply what you feel like drinking that day.
▼ Explore More Tea Total Teas
Shop the Tea Total Tea Collection
Summary: Discover a Different Style of Earl Grey with Rooibos and Bergamot
Rooibos Earl Grey is a flavoured tea that combines a rooibos base with the distinctive aroma of bergamot.
Like traditional Earl Grey, it offers the bright, fragrant citrus character of bergamot. The difference is that the base is rooibos rather than black tea, creating a softer and lighter flavour profile.
Rooibos Earl Grey is also not the same as decaf Earl Grey. The two differ in their base ingredients, processing, and flavour.
Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey combines rooibos from Madagascar with the distinctive aroma of bergamot. It contains significantly less caffeine than traditional black tea, but trace amounts of caffeine may be present. For this reason, it is not described as caffeine-free or zero caffeine.
Enjoy it straight to discover the original flavour of the blend, serve it over ice on a warm day, add milk for a creamier cup, pair it with lemon or orange for an extra citrus touch, or try it chai-style with cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger.
Rather than drinking it for a specific health effect, enjoy the distinctive combination of bergamot aroma and mellow rooibos flavour and discover your own favourite way to make Rooibos Earl Grey part of your tea time.
Shop Tea Total Rooibos Earl Grey Tea 100g
Explore the Tea Total Tea Collection
※ This article provides general information about rooibos, Earl Grey, bergamot, and ways to enjoy tea. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
※ Individual sensitivity to caffeine varies. If you completely avoid caffeine, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have received individual advice from a healthcare professional regarding caffeine intake, please consult your doctor, midwife, or another qualified healthcare professional as appropriate for your circumstances.