The London Fog

On cold blustery days there’s nothing quite as comforting as wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of London Fog – the classic Earl Grey tea latte. This delicately floral, subtly sweet hot drink is easy to make and utterly soothing. The London Fog is more than a hot beverage; it’s a bright spot for any gray day!

 What Exactly is a London Fog?

A London Fog is a caffeinated tea-based drink made by steeping Earl Grey tea and vanilla syrup in hot milk or water. The end result is a creamy, aromatic latte that tastes just a little bit floral and sweet.

A Canadian Creation

Contrary to its name, the London Fog did not originate in the bustling streets of London but rather in the cozy cafes of Vancouver, Canada. The drink is believed to have been created in the 1990s, gaining popularity for its comforting appeal in the face of the city’s frequent rain and mist. A regular customer named Mary Loria, who was pregnant at the time and not drinking coffee, asked the cafe to make her a different hot drink. She requested they make a regular black tea and add in steamed milk, vanilla, and sugar.

Inspired by the desire to create a comforting and elegant beverage, it quickly became a favorite in coffee shops and tea houses across Canada. Its popularity eventually spread to other parts of the world, earning its place as a beloved hot drink on café menus globally.

Creative Flavor Variations 

While the original ingredients keep it classic, you can customize your London Fog with inventive mix-ins:

• Tokyo Fog- Replace Earl Grey tea with matcha green tea.
• Holiday Spice London Fog- Add festive pumpkin spice or dashes of cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Savannah Fog- Same as original, but use lavender syrup instead of vanilla syrup.
• The Dublin Fog- Made with Irish Breakfast tea, milk froth and vanilla syrup.
• The Manchester Fog- Made with Earl Grey tea, soy milk froth and sugar-free vanilla syrup.
• Cape Town Fog- Substitute Earl Grey with rooibos tea.
• The Bangalore Fog- Chai, milk froth, vanilla syrup. This is essentially a vanilla chai latte.
• Seattle Fog- Add hazelnut syrup to London fog.
• Bombay Fog- Substitute Earl Grey with chai tea and add cinnamon syrup instead of vanilla. 
• Atlantic City Fog- Replace Earl Grey with Rose Tea. 
• Maui Fog- The same as London Fog, only substituting coconut for vanilla syrup.
• London Smog- A regular London Fog with a shot of espresso.
• Mexican Fog- Same as original, substituting agave syrup for vanilla syrup.
• Halifax Fog- Same as original, but substitute Nova Scotian maple syrup for vanilla syrup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make it caffeine-free?

Yes! Use decaffeinated Earl Grey tea instead of regular Earl Grey. Decaf Earl Grey will provide the bergamot flavor without the caffeine.

Can you make it dairy-free? 

Absolutely. Simply use water warmed just below boiling instead of heated milk. Add a little extra vanilla to make up for the missing creamy texture.

Is it only made with Earl Grey tea?

While the classic version is made with Earl Grey tea, some variations may use other tea blends as a base. However, the distinctive flavor of Earl Grey remains synonymous with the traditional version.

Can I make a London Fog at home?

Absolutely! Making it at home is simple. Brew a strong cup of Earl Grey tea, steam or froth milk, add a dash of vanilla syrup, and voilà – you have a homemade London Fog ready to be enjoyed.

What type of milk is best for a London Fog?

The choice of milk is a matter of personal preference. Some prefer the richness of whole milk, while others opt for the creaminess of almond or oat milk. Experiment with different milk options to find the one that suits your taste.

Can I make it without vanilla syrup?

Certainly. While vanilla syrup adds a subtle sweetness to the drink, it’s not a mandatory ingredient. Some individuals prefer their London Fog without any added sweetness, allowing the natural flavors of the tea and milk to come through.

The London Fog is a comforting hot beverage that’s perfect for chillier weather. Sip it while curled up with a good book or before braving the cold outdoors. The cozy tea latte is sure to warm you up. Whether you’re sipping it in a bustling café, experimenting with variations at home, or enjoying a moment of tranquility, the London Fog invites you to savor the simple joy of a well-crafted drink.