Mead, for many people is a drink wrapped up in myth and legend, and is becoming increasingly popular. In the USA, where consumption is up a huge 42 per cent and its reported that it’s US hispters’ hot new brew. Game of Thrones, the medieval-inspired fantasy TV programmes featuring warring clans, dynasties, dragons and damsels in various states of undress, is thought to be responsible and as Series 5 hit UK screens last month, the future for mead looks rosy.

Teutonic, Nordic and Celtic legends have gods and mortals alike knocking back mead from cow horns, goblets or ceremonial bowls, often bestowing it with magical powers and ritual importance. Cropping up in Arthurian legend, Chaucer, Shakespeare, Tolkein and Harry Potter, mead sits comfortably in the British consciousness as something of a defining national drink from the days of yore.