Mead is one of the oldest alcoholic drinks in Britain but despite its ancient nature, it’s still incredibly popular today. If you’ve never heard of mead but are interested in learning more about what it is, where it came from, and where you can buy it in London, then keep reading!

What is Mead?

Mead is often referred to as honey wine, as it’s made by fermenting honey with water. However, it isn’t classed as a wine since it doesn’t use grapes or grains, instead it is its own classification of alcoholic beverage.

Traditional mead is made up of three ingredients – honey, water, and yeast, but it’s not uncommon to find mead with additional flavourings like fruits, spices, and herbs.

What Does Mead Taste Like?

Since it’s made from honey, mead is generally quite sweet. However, the flavour can vary depending on the type of honey used, the strength of it, and if there are any additional ingredients.

It can be still, carbonated, or naturally sparkling and you can get dry and semi-sweet variations too. So, if you’re not a fan of particularly sweet drinks, there are still plenty of mead options out there for you to try.

You can also drink mead hot or cold, but room temperature mead is less recommended.

Where Does Mead Come From?

Mead’s origins can’t be pinpointed exactly, but evidence of mead has been traced back to northern China from at least 7000 BCE. Many historians believe mead was discovered after rainwater accidentally mixed with honey in beehives and was naturally fermented with wild yeast.

Its popularity has wavered over the centuries but it has certainly made a comeback in modern life.

Where Can I Buy Mead in London?

Its popularity has wavered over the centuries but it has certainly made a comeback in modern life.

You can buy mead almost anywhere as it’s often stocked in most major supermarkets in the UK. However, if you’re looking for a specific mead or to try a few different types, you may be best purchasing from a meadery or specialty retailer who will offer a wider selection of meads.

Will You Be Trying Mead?

With so much variation in strength, flavour, and texture, mead is an excellent beverage to enjoy throughout the year – enjoy a cold glass in summer or a hot ceramic mug in winter. So, shop online through a meadery or head to your closest supermarket and enjoy some mead today!