As an experienced sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with some insights on whether or not you should chill your mead before drinking it. The decision ultimately depends on your personal preference and the specific characteristics of the mead you are consuming.
When it comes to lighter, dry meads, they can often benefit from being served chilled, similar to many white wines. Chilling these meads can help to enhance their refreshing and crisp qualities, making them a great choice for a hot summer day or as an aperitif. The cool temperature can also help to balance any acidity present in the mead, resulting in a smoother and more enjoyable drinking experience.
On the other hand, darker, sweeter, or more robustly flavored meads can be enjoyed either at room temperature or chilled. These meads often possess more complex and intense flavors, which may be better appreciated when not chilled. Allowing them to warm up slightly can help to release their full aromas and flavors, providing a more nuanced tasting experience. However, if you prefer a colder beverage or if the weather is particularly warm, chilling these meads can still be a good option.
It's worth noting that chilling mead too much can sometimes dull its flavors and aromas, particularly if it is excessively cold. Mead, like any other beverage, has a range of optimal serving temperatures that can help to showcase its unique characteristics. Experimenting with different temperature ranges can be a fun way to explore the nuances of different meads and find your preferred serving temperature.
Personal experiences can also play a role in deciding whether to chill mead or not. For example, if you have had a particular mead in the past and enjoyed it chilled, you may choose to replicate that experience. Additionally, certain food pairings may be better suited to chilled or room temperature mead, so considering your dining plans can also guide your decision.
There is no definitive answer as to whether you should chill your mead before drinking it. Lighter, dry meads generally benefit from being served chilled, while darker, sweeter, or more complex meads can be enjoyed at various temperatures. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific characteristics of the mead you are consuming. I encourage you to experiment and find what works best for you, as the enjoyment of mead is a highly subjective experience.