For centuries, mead has graced the tables of kings, warriors, and everyday folk. Though it fell out of favor as less expensive ways of producing alcohol took root, this ancient beverage, often referred to as “honey wine,” has experienced a resurgence in popularity. Not only does it offer a unique taste profile capable of more variety than beer or wine, but it’s also a naturally gluten-free alcoholic option.
Mead: The Ancient Honey Wine
Mead, with its rich history, is believed to be one of the oldest alcoholic beverages known. Originating from the simple fermentation of honey, water, and yeast, mead has been celebrated in various cultures, from the Vikings of Scandinavia to the tribes of Africa. Almost every ancient culture that had access to honey, produced some kind of mead.
At its core, mead is often referred to as “honey wine.” This is because the primary ingredient, honey, undergoes fermentation, much like grapes in wine. The result? A beverage that can range from sweet to dry, still to sparkling, and everything in between.
How Mead is Naturally Gluten Free
In today’s health-conscious world, many are seeking gluten-free options, whether due to celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or personal preference. Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, is commonly present in many alcoholic beverages, especially beers.
However, traditional mead stands out as a naturally gluten-free option. Made from the fermentation of honey, without the addition of grains that contain gluten, mead is a safe and delicious choice for those avoiding gluten in their diet. At Sap House Meadery, all of our meads are naturally gluten free. Even our “Pie Series” which contains oats, use certified gluten free oats to make sure our meads can be enjoyed by all.
Why Choose Mead Over Other Gluten-Free Alcoholic Options?
While there are many gluten-free alcoholic beverages in the market, mead offers a unique taste profile that sets it apart. Its flavors are influenced by the type of honey used, and it can be infused with fruits, spices, and herbs, leading to a diverse range of tasting experiences. No matter what your taste preferences, you can find a mead that you’ll love. The most important thing we try to communicate to our patrons in the Pub and Tasting Room in Ossipee, NH is that mead is not a single beverage but a whole category. There’s a mead out there for you.
Sap House Meadery’s Philosophy on Making Mead
At Sap House Meadery, our passion is crafting both authentic meads and blazing a new path with our Meadovation Program. The most important thing for us is to match the expectation and emotion that a label evokes with the flavor inside. We use whole ingredients, sourced as locally as possible, like blackberries, vanilla beans and more. But we’re not afraid to venture out into unexplored territory with our experimental meads like S’mores.
Mead, with its rich history and diverse flavor profiles, offers a delightful alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages. Its naturally gluten-free nature makes it an even more attractive choice for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. If you’re curious for more, read on about how mead might be the sustainable alternative to beer and spirits, shop our mead selection online or visit our Pub and Tasting Room.
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