What is a Mead Brew?
Mead is an ancient fermented beverage that has been enjoyed by humans for thousands of years. It is often referred to as “honey wine” due to its main ingredient being honey. However, mead is not simply a mixture of honey and water. It involves a complex brewing process that incorporates various yeasts, spices, and aging techniques to create a unique and flavorful beverage.
To make mead, the first step is to combine honey and water. The ratio of honey to water can vary depending on the desired sweetness and strength of the final product. Some mead makers prefer a drier mead with a lower honey content, while others aim for a sweeter and more honey-forward flavor.
Once the honey and water are mixed, yeast is added to initiate the fermentation process. Unlike traditional beer brewing, where ale yeast strains are commonly used, mead production often utilizes yeasts commonly found in champagne and wine making. These yeasts are chosen for their ability to ferment the sugars in honey and produce a clean and crisp finished product.
The fermentation process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the desired style of mead and the yeast used. During fermentation, the yeast consumes the sugars in the honey and produces alcohol and carbon dioxide as byproducts. This creates the characteristic effervescence found in many meads.
In addition to honey and water, mead can also incorporate a variety of spices and flavorings. Common additions include fruits, herbs, and even grains. These ingredients can add depth and complexity to the final product, allowing mead makers to create a wide range of flavors and styles.
Once fermentation is complete, the mead is often aged to further develop its flavors. Aging can take place in a variety of vessels, including oak barrels or glass carboys. The length of aging can vary depending on the desired character of the mead, with some meads benefiting from months or even years of aging.
Mead is a versatile beverage that can range from dry and crisp to sweet and dessert-like. It can be still or carbonated, still or sparkling. The possibilities are nearly endless, offering a wide range of flavors and styles to suit different preferences.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and exploring a variety of meads. Each one has its own unique character and story, reflecting the creativity and craftsmanship of the mead maker. From delicate and floral meads to bold and rich varieties, there is truly a mead for every palate.
Mead brewing involves the combination of honey and water, along with optional spices and flavorings. It utilizes yeasts commonly found in champagne and wine production to ferment the sugars in honey and create a flavorful and complex beverage. The aging process further enhances the flavors, resulting in a wide range of mead styles and characteristics. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with food, mead offers a delightful and ancient drinking experience.