Welcome to the world of mead, the the ancient honey-based drink that’s making a comeback in Britain.
Mead, often called the “drink of the gods,” is a beverage steeped in myth and tradition. Known as one of the oldest alcoholic drinks in human history.
Made by fermenting honey with water (and sometimes fruit or spices), mead is one of the world’s oldest alcoholic beverages, yet it’s enjoying a new wave of popularity across the UK. From small-batch producers in Cornwall to artisan meaderies in Yorkshire, this traditional drink is being reimagined for today’s craft-loving crowd.
What Exactly Is Mead Made From?
Mead is made from three simple ingredients: honey, water, and yeast.
That’s it! Though modern meadmakers often experiment with fruit, herbs, or spices to create new flavours.
The key ingredient is always the honey. The taste of a mead depends on the flowers the bees visited, meaning each bottle reflects a unique part of the British landscape — from heather-rich Scottish moors to wildflower meadows in Devon.
The quality and flavour of the honey used, play a significant role in determining the final taste of the mead.
A Sip Through Time: The Rich History of British Mead
Mead’s story in Britain is as old as the hills. Archaeological evidence suggests that mead was being produced in Britain as far back as 2000 BCE. That’s right people were enjoying mead on these isles before Stonehenge was even completed!
In medieval times, mead was the drink of choice for many Britons. It featured prominently in AngloSaxon and Celtic cultures, often associated with celebrations and rituals. The term “honeymoon” is believed to originate from the tradition of newlyweds drinking mead for a month (a moon cycle) after their wedding.
But why did mead fall out of favour? The rise of beer in the Middle Ages and the increasing availability of cheap sugar in the 17th and 18th centuries led to a decline in mead production. For centuries, mead became a niche product, often viewed as a novelty or historical curiosity.
The Sweet Comeback: Modern British Mead Production
Fast forward to today, and British mead is experiencing a renaissance. In 2018, the UK mead market was valued at £8.5 million, and it’s projected to reach £11.5 million by 2025. That’s a lot of honey!
The British mead industry is experiencing a notable growth spurt. According to the UK Mead Alliance, there are now over 30 meaderies across the country, a significant increase from just a handful a decade ago. The demand for mead has been steadily increasing, with a 25% rise in sales reported in 2022 alone.
While this might seem small compared to the 4.5 billion litres of beer produced annually in the UK, it represents significant growth for the mead industry.
This growing interest is fuelled by a combination of factors. A shift towards craft beverages, a desire for natural ingredients, and the resurgence of interest in traditional and historical drinks.
Mead in Popular Culture: From Game of Thrones to Your Local Pub
Mead has seen a boost in popularity thanks to its prominence in shows like Game of Thrones and Vikings. This media exposure has piqued curiosity about this ancient drink.
In response, some British pubs have started offering mead. The Wetherspoon chain, for instance, introduced mead to its drinks menu in 2018, bringing this historic beverage to a wider audience.
Sustainability and Mead: A Sweet Solution?
With growing concerns about climate change and biodiversity loss, mead production offers some environmental benefits. Beekeeping, essential for mead production, supports pollinator populations. Some British meaderies are going a step further, adopting sustainable practices like using recycled packaging and investing in renewable energy.
What Does Mead Taste Like?
Mead can taste sweet, dry, floral, fruity, or even spicy, depending on how it’s made.
Traditional meads tend to highlight the flavour of the honey itself, while modern varieties may include berries, herbs, or citrus notes. Some are still and silky, others lightly sparkling – making mead as versatile as wine or cider.
If you’re new to mead, try sampling a flight of different styles from local producers to find your favourite.
How to Enjoy British Mead: Tips from the Experts
Ready to try some mead? Here are some tips from British meadmakers:
Serve chilled: Most meads are best enjoyed cool, around 12-14°C.
Use the right glass: A white wine glass works well for most meads.
Pair wisely: Try mead with strong cheeses, fruit desserts, or even spicy foods.
Start with a variety: Try a flight of different meads to discover your preference.
Where Can I Buy British Mead?
You can find mead from UK-made brands at farmers’ markets, independent bottle shops, and online.
Many meaderies now sell directly through their websites, offering tasting sets, limited-edition batches, and subscription boxes.
Supporting British meadmakers helps keep this ancient craft alive — and supports local beekeepers and sustainable production.
The Future is Mead-ieval
From ancient feasting halls to modern cocktail bars, mead has had quite a journey in Britain. Its recent resurgence is a testament to both its rich history and its modern appeal. Whether you’re a history buff, a culinary adventurer, or simply looking for a new drink to try, British mead offers something unique.
So next time you’re browsing the drinks menu or wandering through a farmer’s market, keep an eye out for some locally produced mead. You might just discover your new favorite drink one that connects you to thousands of years of British history in every sweet, golden sip.
Remember, in the world of British beverages, mead is creating quite a buzz. Why not bee part of it?
