Mead - A Timeless Brew with a Modern Twist

Mead, often called "honey wine," is one of the oldest known alcoholic beverages. Made from fermented honey, this ancient drink dates back thousands of years, with roots in cultures from ancient Egypt to Viking Scandinavia. It has found its way into modern times, bringing with it both tradition and creativity, especially when you experiment with flavours by adding ingredients such as fruits, herbs, and spices, or by sipping on a refreshing Sangria mead crafted by Altitude Brewing in Queenstown.

A Brief History of Mead

Mead is believed to have originated independently in various parts of the world, and its simplicity—honey, water, and yeast—is likely what made it so widespread. Historical records and archaeological evidence show mead was enjoyed in places as diverse as China, Africa, and Europe, often in ceremonial or religious contexts. Ancient Greeks, Norsemen, and Celts all celebrated this drink, weaving it into their myths and legends.

Gluten-Free and Full of Benefits

One of the major appeals of mead in modern times is that it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect option for people with gluten intolerances or celiac disease. Since honey is the primary ingredient, it doesn’t require any grains—like wheat, barley, or rye—that are used in beer brewing.

Honey itself is a powerhouse, rich in antioxidants and boasting antimicrobial properties. When transformed into mead, it retains many of these benefits, albeit in moderation, since it is an alcoholic beverage. Depending on how the mead is crafted, it can vary from sweet to dry, and still or sparkling, offering something for everyone.

A Homemade Mead Adventure: Crafting with Nic's Honey

At home, we crafted a delightful batch of mead using Nic’s Honey and added our homemade elderflower syrup for flavour and a touch of fizz. The combination was refreshing and aromatic, with the floral notes from the elderflower perfectly complementing the natural sweetness of the honey. It was a light, bubbly drink that we enjoyed together, showing just how creative you can get with mead-making, even in a simple home brewing setup.

Homemade Mead

For the Lazy Days: Altitude Brewing’s Sangria Mead

If making mead at home isn’t your thing, I highly recommend heading to Queenstown and visiting Altitude Brewing. They’ve taken the traditional mead and transformed it into a vibrant Sangria, made with Nic’s Honey. It's a refreshing take on mead, perfect for enjoying in the company of friends on a sunny day.

Whether you're a home brew enthusiast or prefer to leave it to the experts, mead is a versatile and historical drink that deserves a spot on your tasting list. Give it a try and experience the rich legacy of honey in a glass.

Prost!

Regina x