As a sommelier and brewer, I can definitely help guide you on how much cinnamon to use in your mead, also known as cyser. The amount of cinnamon you use ultimately depends on your personal taste preferences and how prominent you want the cinnamon flavor to be in your mead.
Cinnamon can be quite potent, so it's important to start with a small amount and gradually increase it according to your liking. I would recommend starting with around 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon per gallon of mead. This will give you a subtle hint of cinnamon without overpowering the other flavors in your cyser.
If you prefer a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, you can increase the amount to 1-2 tablespoons per gallon. However, I would caution against using too much cinnamon, as it can easily dominate the other flavors in your mead and become overwhelming.
One approach you could take is to make a small test batch first. This way, you can experiment with different amounts of cinnamon and taste the results to find your desired level of cinnamon flavor. This can be a fun and educational process, allowing you to fine-tune your recipe to your personal preferences.
Another factor to consider is the type of cinnamon you use. There are different varieties available, such as Ceylon cinnamon and Cassia cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon is considered to have a milder, sweeter flavor compared to the stronger and more pungent Cassia cinnamon. Depending on the variety you choose, you may need to adjust the amount accordingly.
It's also worth noting that cinnamon tends to mellow and integrate into the mead over time. So, if you find that the cinnamon flavor is too strong initially, you can let your cyser age for a few weeks or even months to allow the flavors to blend and harmonize. This can result in a more balanced and enjoyable cinnamon presence in your mead.
In my personal experience, I have found that using around 1-1.5 teaspoons of ground cinnamon per gallon of mead provides a pleasant and noticeable cinnamon flavor without overpowering the other flavors. However, taste preferences can vary greatly, so I encourage you to experiment and find the perfect amount of cinnamon that suits your palate.
To summarize, there is no definitive answer to how much cinnamon to use in your mead. It ultimately comes down to your personal taste preferences. I recommend starting with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon per gallon and adjusting from there based on your desired level of cinnamon flavor. Remember to taste along the way and make adjustments as needed. Happy brewing!