All about Mead

Mead's story is steeped in the annals of history, with its origins obscured in the mist of prehistory. Archaeological evidence suggests that mead could have been enjoyed by humans as far back as 7000 BC. The simple yet serendipitous combination of honey, water, and yeast has quenched the thirst of countless generations, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. It was not only a drink of the common folk but also graced the tables of the elite, with its presence recorded in the tales of ancient Greece, the sagas of the Vikings, and the lore of the Celts and Slavs.

Its all about the Honey; At the heart of mead is honey, the golden elixir produced by bees, which not only imparts a natural sweetness to mead but also brings a variety of subtle flavours depending on the flowers visited by the bees. The varietal honey used can dramatically affect the taste of the mead, making it a complex and versatile base for this unique drink. From the dark, rich tones of buckwheat honey to the delicate, floral notes of orange blossom, each variety of honey bestows its distinct character to the mead.

Fermentation and Craftsmanship; The art of mead-making, or meadery, is a blend of simplicity and complexity. Traditional mead is made by fermenting a solution of honey and water, but modern meadmakers have expanded this definition, creating a spectrum of styles that include melomels (fruit meads), metheglins (spiced meads), and cyser (apple meads), to name a few. Mead can be still, carbonated, or naturally sparkling; it can be as dry as the driest wines or sweet like ambrosia. The fermentation process is slow, requiring patience and attention to detail, with some meads taking years to mature and reach their full potential.

Sustainability and Bee Conservation; Mead production is inextricably linked to the health of bee populations, and many meaderies are actively involved in sustainable practices and bee conservation efforts. By supporting local apiaries and practising ethical beekeeping, mead producers are helping to safeguard the future of bees, which are vital to our ecosystem.

Tasting and Pairing; The tasting notes of mead can range from the rich, savoury flavours of a traditional sack mead to the bright, tangy notes of a session mead infused with berries. Pairing mead with food is an adventure in itself, with its natural affinity for both sweet and savoury dishes. A sweet mead can complement the spiciness of Asian cuisine, while a dry mead can be the perfect accompaniment to a charcuterie board or a creamy blue cheese, such as Cashel Blue from Ireland or our ever popular Montagnolo.

Culinary Use; Beyond the glass, mead has found its way into the culinary world as an ingredient in cooking and baking. Its sweet and complex flavours can enhance sauces, marinades, and desserts, adding depth and nuance to a dish.

As interest in mead grows, so does the need for education about this ancient drink. Meadmakers and enthusiasts are fostering communities, sharing knowledge, and offering mead tastings and workshops to educate the public about its rich heritage and the nuances of its production and enjoyment.