Hydromel is a light, lower-alcohol version of mead, often sparkling and refreshingly crisp. It's perfect for those who enjoy a lighter drink that still retains the delightful flavors of honey.
Recipe
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Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs of honey
- 1 gallon of water
- 1 packet of wine yeast (Lalvin EC-1118 or similar)
- Yeast nutrient (optional)
Steps
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Sanitize Equipment: Clean all equipment thoroughly to prevent contamination.
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Mix Honey and Water: In a sanitized fermenter, mix the honey with warm water until fully dissolved.
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Add Yeast Nutrient: If using, add yeast nutrient according to the package instructions.
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Pitch Yeast: Rehydrate the yeast in warm water for 15 minutes and then add it to the fermenter.
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Fermentation: Seal the fermenter with an airlock and store it in a dark, cool place (65-75°F) for about 1-2 weeks, or until fermentation slows down.
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Rack the Hydromel: Siphon the hydromel into a clean secondary fermenter, leaving the sediment behind.
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Aging: Let the hydromel age for at least 1-2 months to develop its flavors.
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Bottling: Sanitize bottles and siphon the hydromel into them. Seal and store in a cool, dark place.
Additional Information
Hydromel is often enjoyed in the summertime due to its light and refreshing nature. It's a great introduction to mead for those who prefer beverages with lower alcohol content.
