The Bergamot orange, native to southern Italy, is known for its distinctive, bitter, floral, and sweet citrus flavor and as a powerful fragrance. While the fruit is generally considered inedible, this flavor profile continues to catch consumer attention. The numbers speak for themselves: Bergamot’s global popularity is undeniable, with over 360,000 monthly searches. Earl Grey tea is experiencing a surge in interest, evidenced by an 11% increase in Google searches in the past year. And the booming citrus flavor market, valued at $4.7 billion (IAL), continues to grow. This data indicates a significant and growing demand for bergamot and citrus flavors, creating a prime opportunity for innovative food and beverage products.
Bergamot Flavor Profile Breakdown
- Tart citrus notes
- Rose-like floral undertones
- Hints of earthy coriander
- Subtle herbal and spicy nuances
Bergamot + Choosing the Right Flavor Pairing:
- Herbs: coriander, basil, thyme, sage, and rosemary
- Spices: cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, cumin, and star anise
- Other flavors: gin, lemongrass, ginger, chamomile, and various citrus fruits
Bergamot is already showing up in multiple categories. Where do you see the Earl Grey renaissance having the biggest impact?
- Confectionery: Enhances depth in dark chocolate from brands like Raaka and premium bars.
- Baked Goods: Elevates lemon drizzle cakes and Earl Grey-infused shortbreads.
- Ice Cream: Adds complexity to vanilla and honey-based frozen desserts.
- Beverages: Creates intriguing profiles in lattes (London Fog, anyone?), sparkling waters, sodas, and functional tonics1,3.
- Cocktails: Bergamot pairs excellently with bourbon whiskey and apricots in innovative cocktail recipes, like the Earl Grey Martini.4
Opportunities for Product Developers and Food and Beverage Manufacturers
The Bergamot and Earl Grey tea markets are experiencing significant growth and innovation. Why?:
- Increasing demand for premium, artisanal products3
- Growing interest in health-enhancing properties, such as gut health, stress reduction, and immunity boosting6
- Expansion into RTD formats, including pre-brewed iced Earl Grey and canned Earl Grey lattes3,6
- Blurring of boundaries between traditional RTD teas and other functional beverage categories6
By partnering with Imbibe, brands can confidently innovate with Bergamot, creating unique and captivating sweet products that stand out in today’s competitive market. To request flavor samples or development services, email us at marketing@imbibeinc.com.
