Making mead in Norse mythology is an ancient and revered tradition that has been passed down through generations. Mead holds a special place in Norse mythology as it is believed to have been the drink of the gods, providing them with strength and wisdom. To recreate this sacred elixir, one must pay homage to the ingredients and techniques used in ancient times.
The first step in making mead is to heat the water to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is crucial as it helps to activate the natural enzymes in the honey, allowing for proper fermentation. I recommend using a stockpot on the stove for this process, as it provides a controlled and even heat distribution.
While the water is heating, it's time to prepare the hibiscus flower. In Norse mythology, hibiscus is often associated with Freya, the goddess of love and fertility. To honor her presence, I suggest using 1 ounce of hibiscus flower in your mead recipe. However, if you prefer a more pronounced floral character, feel free to use 2 ounces instead. Place the hibiscus flower in a muslin bag, allowing it to steep in the water as it comes up to temperature.
Once the water reaches 150 degrees Fahrenheit, remove the muslin bag containing the hibiscus flower. This ensures that the mead receives the desired flavor from the flower, without overpowering it. The water is now ready to be infused with the sweetness of honey.
In Norse mythology, honey is often associated with the god Odin, who gained his wisdom and poetic inspiration from the sacred mead. To pay homage to Odin, choose a high-quality honey that is rich in flavor and character. Raw, unfiltered honey works best for mead, as it retains the natural enzymes and flavors necessary for fermentation.
Add the desired amount of honey to the heated water, stirring gently until it dissolves completely. The sweetness of the honey will balance the floral notes from the hibiscus, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. It is important to use the right amount of honey, as it determines the sweetness and alcohol content of the final mead.
Once the honey is fully dissolved, cover the stockpot and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. This process may take a few hours, but it is crucial for the fermentation process. During this time, the natural yeast present in the honey will become active, converting the sugars into alcohol.
After the mixture has cooled, transfer it to a fermentation vessel. This can be a glass carboy or a food-grade plastic container, ensuring that it is properly sanitized beforehand. The vessel should have an airlock attached, allowing the carbon dioxide produced during fermentation to escape without exposing the mead to oxygen.
Fermentation is a slow and delicate process, and it is important to be patient. Place the fermentation vessel in a cool, dark place, ideally between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range encourages a slow and steady fermentation, allowing the flavors to develop fully.
Over the next few weeks, monitor the fermentation process by checking the airlock for any signs of activity. Bubbles in the airlock indicate that fermentation is taking place. It is important not to disturb the mead during this time, as it may impede the fermentation process.
After several weeks, the fermentation will slow down, and the mead will become clearer. At this point, it is ready to be transferred to a secondary fermentation vessel, leaving behind any sediment that may have settled at the bottom.
Allow the mead to age in the secondary vessel for several months, or even up to a year, to allow the flavors to mellow and harmonize. This aging process is crucial for achieving a smooth and well-rounded mead, reminiscent of the ancient elixir enjoyed by the Norse gods.
When the desired aging time has passed, it is time to bottle the mead. Use sanitized bottles and corks or caps to ensure the mead remains free from contamination. Consider adding a touch of creativity to your mead by designing personalized labels, honoring the rich history and mythology that inspired its creation.
And there you have it, your very own mead inspired by Norse mythology. With each sip, you can connect with the ancient traditions and tales of the gods, experiencing a taste of the past. Skål!