Honey Wine

     Mead is generally accepted as the oldest alcoholic beverage known to mankind.  The earliest documentation of its existence dates back to 1700 BC in Hindu writings.  Mead was the preferred drink during the Golden Age of Greece.  It is also referenced in such ancient writings as Beowulf.

     Neither beer nor wine, it is the result of honey that has been diluted with water and allowed to ferment by the addition of yeast.  Honey wine, as it is sometimes called, can be flavored with fruits, spices and malt and is then called either metheglyns or melomels.  Mead comes in a variety of styles and flavors.  It can be bottled as still, carbonated or sparkling and  may be classified as dry, semi-sweet, or sweet.  And it can range from 8% ABV to over 20%.

     This ancient craft is being carefully followed at the StoneKeep Meadery in nearby Boyertown, PA at Frecon Farms.  It's worth the trip there to see and learn about the production of honey wine.  Be sure to stop by their new tasting room!