As a home brewer, you know that experimenting with new flavors and ingredients is all part of the fun. And what better way to do so than with mead, the ancient fermented beverage made from honey? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of mead recipes, showcasing 20 unique and delicious flavor combinations that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From classic honey-based meads to more adventurous concoctions featuring fruits, spices, and herbs, these recipes will inspire you to try something new and exciting.
In this article, we’ll explore a range of recipes, from traditional honey-based meads to creative fusion flavors that blend the best of sweet and savory. Whether you’re a seasoned brewer or just starting out, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouthwatering mead recipes…
Traditional Honey Mead
Make a classic honey mead with this simple recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the complexity of fermentation. This traditional method requires patience, but the result is well worth the wait.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs (1.36 kg) pure honey
– 1 gallon (3.78 L) water
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast (e.g., Lalvin K1-V1116 or Red Star Premier Cuvee)
– Optional: spices, fruits, or herbs for flavor and aroma
Instructions:
1. Combine honey and water in a large pot, heating gently to dissolve the honey.
2. Bring mixture to 180°F (82°C) to pasteurize and kill any bacteria or wild yeast.
3. Allow mixture to cool to 70°F (21°C), then pitch the yeast by adding the packet to the liquid.
4. Transfer the must (honey-water-yeast mixture) to a sanitized fermentation vessel, such as a food-grade plastic bucket or glass carboy.
5. Seal the vessel and store in a warm, dark place for 2-3 months, monitoring fermentation activity.
6. Rack (transfer) the mead to another sanitized vessel after primary fermentation is complete (usually within 2 weeks).
7. Allow the mead to clarify and mature for at least 6 months before bottling.
Cooking Time: 2-3 months for primary fermentation, with additional time for secondary fermentation and maturation.
Spiced Cinnamon Mead
Spiced Cinnamon Mead Recipe
Warm up with a glass of this sweet and spicy mead, infused with the comforting flavors of cinnamon and spices. This recipe yields 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of delicious Spiced Cinnamon Mead.
Ingredients:
- 6 lbs (2.7 kg) honey
- 1 gallon (3.8 L) water
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
- 2 whole cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pectic enzyme and yeast (for fermentation)
Instructions:
- Mix honey, water, apple cider vinegar, and spices in a large pot. Heat the mixture until the honey dissolves.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a sanitized fermenter.
- Airlock and ferment for 2-3 weeks or until fermentation is complete.
- Bottle the mead and let it age at least 6 months before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Note: Pectic enzyme and yeast are required for fermentation. Make sure to sanitize all equipment to prevent contamination.
Berry Blast Mead
Create a sweet and fruity mead with this simple recipe that combines the flavors of mixed berries and honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 3 lbs. mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 2 cups honey
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) red wine yeast
– 1 tablespoon acid blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine water and mixed berries in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the berries have broken down.
2. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a secondary fermenter or a sanitized container. Discard the solids.
3. Add honey to the liquid and stir until dissolved.
4. Pitch the yeast and add acid blend if using. Seal the container and allow fermentation to complete (7-14 days).
5. Rack the mead (transfer to another container, leaving sediment behind) and store in a cool, dark place for 2-3 months or until clarified.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus fermentation time)
Apple Cinnamon Mead
Transform your mead-making experience with this delicious Apple Cinnamon Mead recipe! This autumnal brew combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of apples to create a delightful drink perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 3 lbs honey (or to taste)
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cinnamon sticks
– 1 tsp yeast nutrient
– 1 packet mead yeast
Instructions:
1. Combine water and honey in a large pot, heating until the honey dissolves.
2. Add apple cider, cinnamon sticks, and yeast nutrient to the pot. Stir well.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to 70°F – 80°F (21°C – 27°C).
4. Pitch the mead yeast and cover the pot with a cloth or plastic wrap.
5. Store in a warm, dark place for 2-3 months, shaking occasionally.
6. Strain the mead through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into another container.
7. Bottle and store at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 2-3 months ( fermentation time)
Lavender Infused Mead
Add a touch of elegance to your mead with the subtle flavor and aroma of lavender. This recipe yields a smooth, floral honey wine perfect for sipping on its own or pairing with sweet treats.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs (1.36 kg) honey
– 1 gallon (3.78 L) water
– 1 tsp (5 mL) lavender buds
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) mead yeast
– Optional: flavorings or spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. Combine honey and water in a large pot, heating until the honey dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add lavender buds. Let steep for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a sanitized fermentation vessel.
4. Add mead yeast according to package instructions.
5. Seal the vessel and store at 65°F (18°C) for 2-3 weeks, or until fermentation is complete.
6. Rack the mead (transfer it to another vessel) every few days to clarify and age.
Cooking Time: 2-3 weeks
Citrus Zest Mead
Create a refreshing and tangy mead with the bright flavors of citrus. This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the zest of oranges, lemons, and limes.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs clover honey
– 1 gallon water
– 1 orange, peeled and zested
– 1 lemon, peeled and zested
– 1 lime, peeled and zested
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) mead yeast
Instructions:
1. Combine honey and water in a large pot. Heat to 180°F, stirring until honey dissolves.
2. Add orange, lemon, and lime zest to the pot. Stir well.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to 70°F.
4. Pitch the mead yeast and seal the fermenter.
5. Allow fermentation to complete (7-10 days).
6. Rack the mead to clarify and age for at least 2 months.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Vanilla Bean Mead
This classic mead recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the creamy richness of vanilla bean, resulting in a smooth and velvety drink perfect for sipping on its own or using as a base for cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs (1.36 kg) pure honey
– 1 gallon (3.78 L) water
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast (such as Lalvin K1-V1116)
– 1/4 teaspoon acid blend (optional)
– 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Combine honey and water in a large pot and heat until the honey dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add yeast and acid blend (if using). Stir gently to combine.
3. Cover the pot and let it sit at room temperature for 24-48 hours, allowing the mixture to ferment and clarify.
4. After fermentation has slowed down, split the vanilla bean lengthwise and add it to the mead.
5. Allow the mead to steep with the vanilla bean for at least 2 weeks or up to several months for a stronger flavor.
6. Strain the mead through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container and discard the solids.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours (fermentation) + 2 weeks – several months (steeping)
Cherry Vanilla Mead
Transform your mead-making experience with this luscious Cherry Vanilla Mead recipe. This dessert-inspired drink combines the natural sweetness of honey, the richness of vanilla, and the tartness of cherries for a truly unique taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 3 lbs honey
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) champagne yeast
– 1 cup cherry juice (100% fruit juice)
– 1/2 cup vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup dried cherries, crushed
Instructions:
1. Combine water and honey in a large pot, stirring until the honey dissolves.
2. Add the yeast and stir gently to distribute evenly.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and add cherry juice, vanilla extract, and crushed cherries. Stir well to combine.
5. Transfer the mead to a sanitized fermenting vessel and seal.
6. Allow the mead to ferment at room temperature (68-72°F) for 2-3 weeks or until bubbles cease to form.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ginger Lemon Mead
Discover the perfect blend of spicy warmth and citrusy brightness with this refreshing Ginger Lemon Mead recipe. This unique mead combines the natural sweetness of honey with the invigorating flavors of ginger and lemon.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs (1.36 kg) honey
– 2 cups (475 ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60 g) fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon citric acid powder
Instructions:
1. Combine honey, water, and sliced ginger in a large pot. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add lemon juice, yeast, and citric acid powder. Stir to combine.
3. Transfer the mixture to a sanitized fermenter and seal.
4. Allow fermentation to take place at 68°F (20°C) for 7-10 days.
5. Rack the mead to clarify and age for at least 2 weeks before serving.
Cooking Time: 7-10 days (fermentation), plus 2-week aging period
Pineapple Coconut Mead
This refreshing mead recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the richness of coconut, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs honey
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon yeast nutrient
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) champagne yeast
– Optional: a few slices of fresh pineapple for garnish
Instructions:
1. Combine honey, pineapple juice, and water in a large pot. Heat gently, stirring until the honey dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add shredded coconut, yeast nutrient, and champagne yeast. Stir well to combine.
3. Transfer the mixture to a sanitized fermenter or food-grade container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Seal the fermenter and store it in a warm, dark place (around 68°F/20°C) for 2-3 weeks, or until fermentation is complete.
5. Once fermentation has slowed down, rack the mead into another sanitized fermenter or bottle. Allow it to age for at least 6 months before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 weeks (fermentation), plus 6 months (aging)
Elderflower Mead
Capture the sweet essence of summer with this elegant Elderflower Mead recipe. This ancient drink has been enjoyed for centuries, and its delicate flavor is perfect for sipping on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 3 lbs honey
– 1 cup dried elderflowers (Sambucus nigra)
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1/4 teaspoon yeast nutrient
Instructions:
1. Combine water and honey in a large pot. Heat until the honey dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add dried elderflowers, sliced lemon, and yeast nutrient. Stir well to combine.
3. Cover and let steep for 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large container. Discard solids.
5. Transfer the liquid to a sanitized fermentation vessel, such as a glass carboy or food-grade plastic bucket. Fit with an airlock and bung.
6. Allow the mead to ferment for 3-4 months, or until bubbles cease in the airlock.
Cooking Time:
– Steeping time: 24 hours
– Fermentation time: 3-4 months
Raspberry Hibiscus Mead
This recipe combines the sweet tartness of raspberries with the floral notes of hibiscus, creating a unique and refreshing mead perfect for warm weather. With a hint of honey sweetness and a pop of color, this drink is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs wildflower honey
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup raspberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup dried hibiscus flowers
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Yeast starter (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine honey and water in a large pot, heating until the honey dissolves.
2. Add raspberries, hibiscus flowers, and lemon juice to the pot, stirring well.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Transfer the liquid to a fermentation vessel and pitch yeast starter (if using).
6. Allow fermentation to occur over the next 2-3 weeks, or until bubbles cease.
7. Rack the mead and store in a cool, dark place for at least 6 months before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Peach Melba Mead
This refreshing mead recipe combines the sweetness of peaches with the tanginess of raspberry and vanilla, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon of honey wine (mead) base
– 2 cups of fresh peaches, pureed
– 1 cup of raspberry jam
– 1/4 cup of vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon of citric acid (optional)
– Fresh raspberries and whipped cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. Combine the mead base with the peach puree in a large pot.
2. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the peaches are fully incorporated (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the raspberry jam and vanilla extract.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
5. If desired, add citric acid to balance the sweetness.
6. Pour the mead into glass jugs or bottles and store in the refrigerator.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh raspberries and whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Maple Walnut Mead
A sweet and nutty mead perfect for the fall season, this Maple Walnut Mead combines the warmth of maple syrup with the earthy flavor of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs honey
– 1 gallon water
– 2 cups maple syrup
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon yeast nutrient
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) mead yeast
Instructions:
1. Combine honey, water, and maple syrup in a large pot, heating until the honey dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add walnuts, yeast nutrient, and yeast. Stir well to combine.
3. Cover and let ferment for 7-10 days at 68°F (20°C) or warmer.
4. Strain and rack every few days as fermentation slows.
5. Once fermentation is complete (usually within a month), bottle and store in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 1 week to 1 month (fermentation time)
Chai Spiced Mead
Warm up with this aromatic and soothing mead recipe, infused with the spices of traditional chai.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon honey (preferably raw or wildflower)
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Combine honey and water in a large pot, heating until the honey dissolves.
2. Add cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, black pepper, and cloves to the mixture. Stir well.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Strain the mead into a secondary fermentation vessel or glass carboy.
5. Allow the mead to ferment and clarify for at least 6 months before bottling.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Blueberry Basil Mead
This refreshing mead recipe combines the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of basil, creating a unique and intriguing flavor profile. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you want to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon honey
– 6 cups water
– 2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) wine yeast (Champagne or ale yeast)
– Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Combine honey and water in a large pot, heating until the honey dissolves.
2. Add blueberries and basil leaves to the pot, stirring well.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to around 70°F (21°C).
5. Pitch yeast by rehydrating it in warm water, then adding it to the must.
6. Ferment at 65°F (18°C) for 2-3 weeks, or until the bubbles slow down.
7. Strain and bottle, allowing secondary fermentation to occur for another 2-3 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Orange Clove Mead
This recipe combines the warm spices of cloves with the bright, citrusy flavor of orange to create a unique and delicious mead. Perfect for serving at holiday gatherings or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon honey
– 3 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon clove powder
– 1/4 teaspoon orange extract
– 1/2 orange, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine honey and water in a large pot. Heat gently until the honey dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add clove powder and orange extract. Stir well to combine.
3. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
4. Transfer the mixture to a sanitized fermentation vessel and cover with an airlock.
5. Ferment at 68°F – 72°F (20°C – 22°C) for 2-3 months, or until the bubbles slow down significantly.
6. Strain and rack the mead every 2 weeks to clarify and remove any sediment.
7. After fermentation is complete, secondary fermentation can take up to 6 months. Monitor the airlock and rack as needed.
Cooking Time: 2-3 months primary fermentation + 6 months secondary fermentation
Pomegranate Mint Mead
This refreshing mead combines the sweetness of pomegranate with the cooling essence of mint, perfect for a warm evening or as a unique gift. With its fruity and herbaceous flavors, this Pomegranate Mint Mead is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon honey wine (mead) base
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 lemon, peeled
– 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
1. Combine mead base and pomegranate juice in a large pot. Heat over medium heat until warm.
2. Add fresh mint leaves and lemon peel to the mixture. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 24 hours.
3. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard solids.
4. Add cinnamon stick to the liquid and store in the refrigerator for at least 2 weeks to allow flavors to mature.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None (steeping time is approximately 24 hours)
Caramel Apple Mead
Sweet and tangy, this Caramel Apple Mead is perfect for a crisp autumn evening. Made with a blend of apple cider, honey, and caramel flavorings, this mead is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 2 cups honey
– 1/4 cup caramel syrup
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) champagne yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon acid blend
– 1/2 teaspoon yeast nutrient
Instructions:
1. Combine apple cider, honey, and caramel syrup in a large pot. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. Add yeast, acid blend, and yeast nutrient. Stir gently to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a sanitized fermenting vessel. Seal with an airlock.
5. Store in a warm (68-72°F), dark place for 7-10 days or until fermentation is complete.
6. Rack the mead to clarify and age at least 6 months before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe involves fermentation.
Rose Petal Mead
This recipe combines the floral sweetness of rose petals with the warmth of honey to create a unique and enchanting mead. Perfect for special occasions or as a romantic treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs (1.36 kg) honey
– 1 gallon (3.78 L) water
– 1 cup (115g) dried rose petals
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) champagne yeast
– 1/2 tsp acid blend
– 1/2 tsp pectic enzyme
Instructions:
1. Combine honey and water in a large pot, heating until the honey dissolves.
2. Add dried rose petals and remove from heat. Let steep for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a sanitized fermentation vessel.
4. Add yeast, acid blend, and pectic enzyme. Stir gently to combine.
5. Seal the vessel and store in a cool, dark place (around 65°F/18°C) for 3-6 months, or until fermentation is complete.
Cooking Time: 24 hours steeping time + 3-6 months fermentation time
Summary
Get ready to elevate your home brewing game with these 20 delicious mead recipes! From classic flavors like Traditional Honey Mead and Spiced Cinnamon Mead, to fruity twists like Berry Blast Mead and Cherry Vanilla Mead, there’s something for every taste bud. Spice up your brewing routine with unique flavor combinations like Lavender Infused Mead and Ginger Lemon Mead, or try your hand at more complex recipes like Maple Walnut Mead and Chai Spiced Mead. Whether you’re a seasoned brewer or just starting out, these mead recipes are sure to inspire and delight.
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