Earl Grey Organic by Mighty Leaf vs. Earl Grey French Blue by Mariage Frères

We've made it to the third face/off of the second elimination round! The face/offs are getting closer and closer, and soon we will have a winner! For today, we have two more excellent opponents are squaring off: Mighty Leaf's Earl Grey Organic and Earl Grey French Blue by Mariage Frères.


Earl Grey Organic by Mighty Leaf
Teaware: 16oz glass infuser mug with lid, half full
Measured dry: 1 sachet
Water Temperature: Boiling
Steeping Time: 4 minutes
Additives: 2 teaspoons of raw sugar





Earl Grey French Blue by Mariage Frères
Teaware: 16oz glass infuser mug with lid
Measured dry: 1-1/2 teaspoons
Water Temperature: Boiling
Steeping Time: 4 minutes
Additives: 4 teaspoons of raw sugar





Now that both cups have been properly infused, let's see how they meet the criteria!

1. Does the tea taste smooth, without any jarring notes?

• Mighty Leaf: This is a brisk cup with slight astringency.

• Mariage Frères: Yes, this is incredibly smooth.

2. If this is a variety blend, does the Earl Grey flavor profile maintain the driver's seat?

• Mighty Leaf: This is a straightforward Earl Grey that follows the traditional flavor profile.

• Mariage Frères: The cornflowers add a decidedly floral note, but it is not overwhelming and the traditional flavor profile flourishes with the addition.

3. Is there a "Wow!" factor? Something that makes it stand out?

• Mighty Leaf: The biggest draw for this tea is its organic certification and the convenience of its biodegradable individual sachets. 

• Mariage Frères: This is an incredible blend of floral and black tea notes, and all the elements seem to complement each other just about perfectly. It's so smooth I just want to slide on into the cup!

4. How is the astringency? Does it detract from the tea?

• Mighty Leaf: There is some slight astringency, which certainly lends it a very brisk quality but doesn't really take away from the experience.

• Mariage Frères: N/A - There is no noticeable astringency.

5. Does it have any special ties to sustainability, Fair-Trade, or eco-friendliness?

• Mighty Leaf: This is certified organic and comes packaged in individual, biodegradable sachets. 

• Mariage Frères: None listed.

Jake's Opinion: In this match, the Mariage Frères really stands out. The traditional flavor profile of the Earl Grey mixed with the floral elements makes for a very smooth and delightful cup.

Lyssa's Opinion: I have to agree with Jake, between these two teas, I do prefer the Mariage Frères. The Mighty Leaf is a very good tea, but the face/off format we chose for this project does require that only one tea move forward.


So, the winner of this face/off is...

Earl Grey French Blue by Mariage Frères