Mead, a fermented beverage made from honey, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Throughout the years, various styles and variations of mead have emerged, each with its unique characteristics and ingredients. One such style is pyment, which is made with the addition of grapes or grape juice.
Pyment can be considered a subcategory of melomel, which is a term used to describe meads that have fruit added to them. The addition of grapes in pyment brings its own distinct flavor profile and complexity to the mead.
To create pyment, the first step is to ferment the honey with water, as is done in traditional mead-making. Once the base mead is made, grapes or grape juice are added to the mixture. The amount of grapes or grape juice added can vary depending on the desired flavor intensity and sweetness.
The type of grapes used in pyment can also have a significant impact on the final product. Different grape varieties have unique characteristics, which can influence the taste, aroma, and overall profile of the mead. Some popular grape varieties used in pyment include red grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir, as well as white grapes such as Chardonnay or Riesling.
When making pyment, it's important to consider the balance between the honey and grape flavors. The sweetness of the grapes can complement the natural sweetness of the honey, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Additionally, the acidity and tannins present in the grapes can provide structure and depth to the mead.
The fermentation process for pyment is similar to other meads. The yeast consumes the sugars present in both the honey and grapes, converting them into alcohol. The length of fermentation can vary depending on factors such as yeast strain, temperature, and desired sweetness level. Once fermentation is complete, the pyment is typically aged to allow the flavors to meld and develop further complexity.
In terms of taste, pyment can offer a wide range of flavors. The honey provides a natural sweetness and floral character, while the grapes contribute fruity notes, acidity, and sometimes even hints of oak if aged in wine barrels. The end result can vary from a dry and crisp pyment, reminiscent of a white wine, to a full-bodied and rich pyment with complex red fruit flavors.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and experimenting with pyments. One memorable experience was trying a pyment made with local wildflower honey and Niagara grape juice. The floral notes from the honey combined beautifully with the bright and juicy flavors of the grapes, resulting in a refreshing and vibrant pyment.
Pyment is a type of mead that incorporates grapes or grape juice into the fermentation process. It falls under the category of melomel, which encompasses meads with added fruit. The choice of grape variety and the balance between honey and grape flavors greatly influence the taste and character of the pyment. Whether you prefer a dry and crisp pyment or a full-bodied and fruity one, pyments offer a unique and exciting drinking experience for both mead enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.