Honeywine (Mead)

Honeywine

Mead is one of the oldest alcoholic drinks discovered by humans.

Honey, as the main ingredient, was easily available in the nature. It has gradually been added to different drinks and that is how honey wine was first made. It is produced by alcoholic fermentation of natural honey solution. The process is the same as in wine producing. According to some researches, "old" honey wine contains to 13 % alcohol. It is of very pleasant aroma and taste. This is not an artificial drink, on the contrary, it is a natural product similar to wine since the main ingredients turn into alcohol and carbon monoxide under the influence of alcoholic fermentation. The quality of honey wine depends on the type of honey, its age and the way of its production, just like the quality of wine depends on the type of grapes and its characteristics.

Honeywine has always been more than a drink. It was believed to have magic power of revitalization and cure and to be the elixir of life. Soldiers were given honey wine to pour on the wounds in order to heal faster. It was also thought that this drink improved masculinity and fertility. Of course, this is just a myth, but in every myth there is a bit of truth. The truth is that honey wine is rich in vitamin B and amino acids which form proteins and proteins affect the human strength.

It is an extraordinary energy drink. It improves the appetite, blood count and it is also said that it slows the process of getting old. Ancient stories say that honey wine was the drink of gods. It was also believed to be one of the secrets of good marriage. Newlyweds were given this drink every night for the whole month after getting married. The result of this recipe was shown nine months later. It was believed to be a reliable way of getting male offspring.

Preparation: Dissolve honey in water till it starts boiling. Let it boil for a few minutes. Stir it in order not to have honey sediment. The proportion between water and honey is not precisely defined but the solution should be sweet. After cooking, it must cool off and then it should be poured in barrels. The barrels mustn’t be completely closed because of the pressure during fermentation which takes a few months. This absolutely natural and refreshing drink, ideal for body refreshment, can be drunk mixed with beer, wine, sparkling or still mineral water. It is also suitable for making different cocktails.

Originally sourced from zvono.me.