Mjød

Mjød or Mead is an alcoholic beverage created by fermenting honey with water, sometimes with the addition of fruits, spices, grains, or hops. The alcoholic content ranges from about 3.5% ABV to more than 20%. The defining characteristic of mead is that the majority of the beverage's fermentable sugar is derived from honey. It may be still, carbonated, or naturally sparkling; dry, semi-sweet, or sweet.

History

Mead was produced in ancient history throughout Europe, Africa and Asia, and has played an important role in the mythology of some peoples. In Norse mythology, for example, the Mead of Poetry was crafted from the blood of the wise being Kvasir and turned the drinker into a poet or scholar.

Production

The basic ingredients of mead include honey, water, and yeast. The amount of honey used in the mead can vary, but typically makes up between 30% and 40% of the total volume. The yeast used in mead production is often wine yeast, as it tolerates the high sugar content of the must.

Varieties

There are many varieties of mead, including melomel (made with fruit), metheglin (made with spices), and braggot (made with malted grain, typically barley). Traditional mead often has the addition of fruits or spices, while show mead does not.

Cultural significance

Mead has played a significant role in various cultures throughout history. In Norse culture, mead was often used in rituals and was considered a drink of the gods. In ancient Greece, mead was believed to be the drink of the gods and was used in various religious ceremonies.

See also

• History of alcoholic beverages
• Mead of Poetry
• Mead hall
• Mead in Poland
• Mead in Russia