The Seventh Doctor

Dr. Who Inspired Black Tea Blend

This black Lavender Earl Grey tea blend is inspired by the iconic British television series ‘Dr. Who’, and the seventh doctor Sylvester McCoy.

I often get asked if the seventh doctor is my favorite. I have to admit that this is not necessarily the case. I have a lot of favorite doctors, and can we just take a moment to give a shout out to talk the first woman doctor, what an earth shattering surprise that was! Oh sorry, back to the story. I was exhibiting at a Dr. Who convention a few years ago in Wichita, Kansas, and their guest of honor was none other than Sylvester McCoy, the Seventh Doctor. I wanted to create a tea blend especially for the convention so I jumped at the chance to let Dr. Who inspire me.

Earl Grey is one of the most popular teas, especially for English afternoon tea. It is traditionally a black tea that has been flavored with oil from the rind of the bergamot fruit (either natural or synthetic oil). Standard variations include Lady Grey (blended with blue cornflower blossoms); Russian Earl Grey (with pieces of citrus peel); and Red Earl Grey (using Rooibos as a base). Recently, we have even seen a Green Earl Grey, a White Earl Grey, and even a Decaf Earl Grey. Have you ever had a ‘London Fog’? This is a tea latte made with Earl Grey, steamed milk, and vanilla.

This Earl Grey blend is akin to the Parisian version which adds lavender. While I was on a school trip with my daughter to France a number of years ago, I found their Lavender Earl Grey teas to be the most refreshing, heavenly, and satisfying teas I had ever tasted. I’ve now made my own spin on this beloved blend by also adding vanilla. When customers ask me what my favorite tea blend is from those I have created, I go straight to The Seventh Doctor every time. The aroma provides an enchanting lavender fragrance that combines with the bergamot and vanilla resulting in a headiness that makes me want to close my eyes, and sip that cup all day long.

Although Sylvester McCoy was Scottish, his Seventh Doctor persona was most definitely a fan of earl grey tea, and this black tea blend would make him proud. This Lavender Earl Grey blend is likely to become your favorite as well. You can go ahead and add a little cream and/or sugar, or try it iced to open up new possibilities.