As a sommelier and brewer, I have come across the practice of adding lemon juice to mead to enhance its flavor profile. The addition of lemon juice serves a specific purpose in mead-making, and while it is not mandatory, it can be a delightful addition to the final product.
The primary reason for adding lemon juice to mead is to introduce acidity. Mead, made primarily from honey, tends to have a naturally sweet flavor. While this sweetness can be enjoyable, it can sometimes overpower the palate and result in a cloying taste. By adding lemon juice, or other citrus juices, the acid helps to balance out the sweetness and create a more well-rounded flavor.
The acidity from the lemon juice acts as a counterpoint to the sweetness of the honey, providing a pleasant tartness that complements the other flavors in the mead. This acidity can help to cut through the richness of the honey and prevent the mead from becoming too heavy on the palate. It adds a refreshing and bright element to the overall taste profile.
It's important to note that adding sugar or honey to mead will not neutralize the acid or change the pH. The purpose here is not to counteract the acidity but rather to create a harmonious balance between sweet and tart flavors. The addition of sugar or honey will, however, help to further balance the taste, as it adds sweetness that can counterbalance the acidity from the lemon juice.
Personal experiences have taught me that the amount of lemon juice to add can vary depending on personal preference and the specific mead recipe. Some recipes may call for a specific amount of lemon juice to achieve the desired flavor profile, while others may leave it open to experimentation. It is best to start with a small amount of lemon juice and taste as you go, gradually adding more if needed. This approach allows you to tailor the acidity level to your liking.
In addition to providing acidity, lemon juice can also contribute its own flavor to the mead. The citrusy and zesty notes of lemon can add a refreshing and bright character to the mead, enhancing its overall complexity. This can be particularly enjoyable in lighter, fruit-infused meads or when complementing floral or herbal flavors.
The addition of lemon juice to mead serves to introduce acidity and balance out the sweetness of the honey. It adds a tart and refreshing element to the flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste experience. While not mandatory, the inclusion of lemon juice can be a delightful addition to mead, providing a harmonious balance between sweet and tart flavors.