Earl Grey French Blue by Mariage Frères vs. Silky Earl Grey by Teajo Teas

This is the last face/off before our final round, and I have to say that I'm a little relieved. I didn't realize everything this project was going to entail when I began... and I had no idea it would take this long to complete! But here we are, coming down to the wire. Today we have two very strong contenders: Earl Grey French Blue by Mariage Frères and Silky Earl Grey by Teajo Teas.

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





Silky Earl Grey by Teajo Teas
Teaware: 16oz glass infuser mug with lid
Measured dry: 2 teaspoons
Water Temperature: Boiling
Steeping Time: 3 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?

• Mariage Frères:  While these are both amazing teas, the floral notes of this tea do lend it a slightly crisper experience.

• Teajo Teas: The slight touch of vanilla in this tea gives it a delightfully creamy quality, without overstepping its welcome like other cream teas.

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

• Mariage Frères:  This cornflowers in this blend don't hide from your palate, but they also let the Earl Grey flavor profile take the lead.

• Teajo Teas: There's only the slightest hint of vanilla, which in no way eclipses the Earl Grey flavors.

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

• Mariage Frères:  This tea is gorgeously balanced, and has a nice, brisk flavor.

• Teajo Teas: An amazingly smooth, sweet Earl Grey with a near perfect balance.

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

• Mariage Frères:  What's astringency? This tea made forget it even exists!

• Teajo Teas: None at all!

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

• Mariage Frères:  None listed.

• Teajo Teas: Oh, yeah. You can check out their website for more information.

Jake's Opinion: This is truly difficult. I can see myself enjoying both teas throughout the day. Personally, I would prefer the briskness of the Mariage Frères in the morning, but both teas I would enjoy thoroughly throughout the day, and the creaminess of the Teajo gives it an ever so slight edge for enjoyment during that period.

Lyssa's Opinion: I am in love with both of these teas. They are both absolutely fantastic, but I do have to whittle it down to a winner. I could easily see myself taking either of these with me to school and thoroughly enjoying them. When I scroll back down through the criteria we've been using during this project, there is one item that had a discrepancy. The teas were neck and neck throughout every question... except the one about sustainability, fair-trade, and eco-friendliness. So as difficult as this was, I think we've got a winner.

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

Silky Earl Grey by Teajo Teas