Bergamot, commonly used in most Earl Grey tea today, is subspecies of Citrus Aurentium, or Neroli, the original flower used in China. Sir Joseph Banks, to whom Staunton reported his findings, experimented with various flavorings and thus the recipe was devised long before Earl Grey heard of it from Sir Banks, his friend. The Staunton Earl Grey is a tribute to the man who enabled the western world to experience this fine tea.Founded by Royal Charter in 1600 by Queen Elizabeth I, The East India Company introduced tea to Britain. Today, The Company's fine teas reflect Jonathan Swift's famous remark, "Tea is water bewitched"The East India Company are proud to be part of Ethical Tea Partnership