As a sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that coffee mead does indeed contain caffeine. However, it is important to note that the amount of caffeine in coffee mead is significantly less compared to a regular cup of coffee. In fact, it is only about 1/12th the amount of caffeine found in a similarly-sized cup of coffee.
The caffeine content in coffee mead can vary depending on the specific recipe and brewing process. Generally, the caffeine is derived from the coffee beans used during the brewing process. When coffee beans are steeped in the honey and water mixture to create mead, some of the caffeine is extracted and infused into the final product.
To put the caffeine content in perspective, let's compare it to other caffeinated beverages. A typical cup of coffee contains around 95 mg of caffeine, while a cup of tea contains around 30-50 mg of caffeine. Decaffeinated coffee, on the other hand, usually contains around 2-5 mg of caffeine per cup.
In the case of coffee mead, the caffeine content is closer to that of decaf coffee. This means that if you were to consume a can of coffee mead, you would be consuming roughly the same amount of caffeine as you would from a cup of decaf coffee. It's worth noting that individual tolerance to caffeine can vary, so some individuals may still feel the effects of caffeine even in smaller amounts.
One popular coffee mead brand, Smoke on the Mountain, for example, has approximately the equivalent of one cup of tea per can. This provides a mild caffeine boost without the same intensity as a regular cup of coffee. The lower caffeine content in coffee mead allows for a more balanced and enjoyable drinking experience, especially for those who are sensitive to caffeine or prefer a milder effect.
Coffee mead does contain caffeine, but the amount is significantly less than that found in a regular cup of coffee. It is roughly equivalent to a cup of decaf coffee or a cup of tea. This allows coffee mead enthusiasts to enjoy the unique flavors and aromas of coffee without the same level of caffeine stimulation.