Melomel is a type of mead made with the addition of fruits. This fruity twist adds complexity and vibrant flavors to the mead, making it a delightful drink for any occasion.
Recipe
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Ingredients:
- 3 lbs of honey
- 1 gallon of water
- 2 lbs of fruit (berries, peaches, apples, etc.)
- 1 packet of wine yeast (Lalvin D-47 or EC-1118)
- Yeast nutrient (optional)
Steps
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Sanitize Equipment: Clean all equipment thoroughly to prevent contamination.
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Prepare Fruit: Wash and chop the fruit. You can freeze the fruit beforehand to help break down the cell walls.
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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 Fruit: Add the prepared fruit to the fermenter.
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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 4-6 weeks.
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Rack the Mead: Once fermentation slows down, siphon the mead into a clean secondary fermenter, leaving the sediment and fruit pulp behind.
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Aging: Let the mead age for at least 3 months, but longer aging (6-12 months) can improve flavor.
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Bottling: Sanitize bottles and siphon the mead into them. Seal and store in a cool, dark place.
Additional Information
Melomel allows for endless creativity. From strawberries to cherries to tropical fruits, you can experiment with different fruit combinations to create your own signature mead.
