Mead is one of the oldest alcoholic beverages in the world, enjoyed by humans for thousands of years. This traditional drink has regained popularity in recent years, with many people seeking out unique and artisanal beverages. Mead is typically brewed in small batches and can be made with a variety of ingredients, including fruits, spices, and herbs. It can be still or sparkling, dry or sweet and the alcohol content can range from 3% to 20%.
Basic Ingredients
The basic ingredients of mead are honey, water, and yeast. These ingredients are simple yet crucial. The honey used in mead production can vary in type and flavor, from light and delicate to dark and robust. It is essential to use high-quality honey to ensure the best possible flavor in the finished product. The water used in mead production should be clean and free from any contaminants, as it plays a vital role in the fermentation process. Yeast is added to convert the sugars in the honey into alcohol, and the type of yeast used can affect the final flavor of the mead.
Honey is a natural sweetener that is loved and consumed globally. It is a versatile ingredient that is used in numerous culinary creations, desserts, and beverages. Honey is obtained from the nectar of flowers, and depending on the source of the nectar, there are different varieties of honey available. Two of the most popular types of honey are orange blossom honey and wildflower honey. Some of the varieties of honey we use include:
- Clover honey has a light taste and floral aroma.
- Blackberry blossom honey has rich berry flavor and aroma.
- Blueberry blossom honey is collected from the blueberry flowers in the spring and has a delicate, fruity flavor with a hint of tartness.
- Lehua blossom honey is from Hawai'i and is produced by bees that collect nectar from the Lehua blossoms of the Ohi'a tree. This very light honey has a delicate, floral flavor and aroma.
- Macadamia nut blossom honey is also a honey from Hawai'i with a light nutty flavor.
- Orange blossom honey, obtained from the nectar of orange blossoms, is light in color and has a delicate citrus flavor.
Wildflower honey is obtained from the nectar of different flowers, including clovers, daisies, and wild roses. This type of honey has a complex and diverse flavor profile that can vary depending on the region and time of year it was produced. It is typically lighter when harvested early in the spring and darker when harvested in the late summer.
Water is also important in the fermentation process, as it affects the overall flavor and mouthfeel of the mead. In our home brewing phase, we use pure spring water. In our commercial capacity we will use a process that removes chlorine and other contaminants, while restoring the mineral profile of spring water. This helps give BOS Ranch meads a crisp, refreshing, and delicious flavor.
Yeast is used in many food products from bread and cheese to pickled foods and beer. In mead it is responsible for converting the sugars in the honey into alcohol. Different strains of yeast produce different flavors and aromas. Each strain also has it's preferred temperature range. Fermenting outside a yeast's preferred temperature range produces off-flavors and strong alcohol flavors. We select the yeast based upon how well it pairs with our ingredients and fermentation temperatures. Because we ferment within the yeasts ideal temperature range our meads do not have a strong alcohol flavor.
Other Ingredients
Mead can be made in a variety of styles, ranging from dry and crisp to sweet and fruity. Some meads are aged in oak barrels, giving them a rich and complex flavor. Mead can also be infused with spices and herbs, such as cinnamon, ginger, and lavender, which can add depth and complexity to the final product. The flavor of mead can be affected by the climate and region in which it is produced, as well as the skill and creativity of the mead maker. Below are some of the ingredients we use in our meads.
Fruit
- Blueberries can be sweet and tart, plus they give a beauty red color.
- Blackberries impart sweet and jammy flavors.
- Raspberries are just simply delicious.
- Tart Cherries provide that exceptional cherry flavor withoutÂ
Spices
- Hibiscus adds a bit of tartness and color.
- Vanilla is a delicious spice that adds roundness and mouthfeel to a mead.
- Lavender in small amounts adds wonderful aroma and flavors.
Great Meads
Mead is a unique and delicious alcoholic beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is made from honey, water, and yeast and can be brewed in a variety of styles and flavors. The quality of the ingredients used in mead production is crucial, as is the skill and creativity of the mead maker. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with food, mead is a versatile and exciting addition to any beverage list.
