Welcome, fellow aficionados of fermented delights! Today, we embark on a journey through time and taste buds as we delve into the ancient elixir known as mead. Join me as we uncover the sweet secrets of this golden nectar, from its storied past to its delightful present.
First, let’s set the scene: imagine yourself in a medieval tavern, surrounded by jovial chatter and the warm glow of flickering torches. In your tankard, a honeyed concoction awaits—a beverage fit for kings and gods alike. Mead, often hailed as the world’s oldest alcoholic drink, traces its origins back thousands of years, captivating the palates of civilizations from the Vikings to the ancient Greeks.
The Ingredients of Legend
Now, let’s lift the veil on what makes mead so magical. At its core, mead is a simple alchemy of three key ingredients: honey, water, and yeast. But don’t be fooled by its simplicity—within this golden trinity lies a universe of flavor possibilities. Some crafters infuse their brews with fruits, spices, or even herbs, adding layers of complexity and character to each sip.
For my batch, im going with two variations: plain honey / water / yeast (with a small handfull of raisins to provide nutrients for the yeast), while the second batch is honey / water / yeast and raspberry jam (with the same handfull of raisins)
Original gravity (OG) measures the sugar content in wort before fermentation, indicating potential alcohol levels. Final gravity (FG) gauges the sugar left in beer after fermentation, determining sweetness and alcohol content. By comparing OG and FG, brewers calculate alcohol by volume and assess fermentation completeness.
mead OG is 1072
raspberry jam mead OG is 1080
Fermentation of mead typically takes anywhere from one to three months, depending on factors like yeast strain, desired sweetness, and temperature. During this time, the yeast converts the sugars from honey into alcohol, while flavors develop and mature. Some meads benefit from longer aging periods, enhancing complexity and smoothing out flavors, making patience a virtue for the discerning mead maker.
Tasting Notes
Ah, but the proof of the mead is in the sipping! As you raise your glass to your lips, prepare to be transported on a sensory adventure. The aroma dances with hints of floral sweetness, beckoning you closer. With each sip, waves of honey wash over your tongue, followed by subtle notes of fruit or spice, depending on the brew. Whether you prefer it dry and crisp or rich and decadent, there’s a mead out there to suit every taste.
So, dear reader, the next time you seek a taste of history in your glass, consider raising a toast to mead—the drink that’s been delighting drinkers for millennia. Cheers to ancient traditions and modern pleasures!
