Mead, often associated with medieval feasts and ancient mythology, is making a comeback in the modern world. Contrary to popular belief, mead is not just a sweet and syrupy drink but can range from light and dry to rich and savory. Its history dates back to ancient times, preceding beer and wine, with origins believed to have started in China’s Henan province in the seventh millennium BC. Mead has been a part of various ancient cultures, mentioned in writings by Aristotle and featured in epic tales like Beowulf.
Eric Lui, director of Citibrew, emphasizes the importance of reimagining mead as a contemporary drink rather than dismissing it as a relic of the past. Made from water, yeast, and honey, mead is sometimes referred to as honey wine. The resurgence of mead in recent years can be attributed to a growing interest in craft beverages and a desire for unique and diverse flavors.
The rise of mead makers, like Citibrew and Lion City Meadery, has been fueled by a shift towards alternative brewing options. The pandemic disrupted traditional beer production, leading entrepreneurs to explore mead as a viable alternative. With a wide range of honey varieties and the ability to customize flavors with fruits, spices, and other ingredients, mead offers a level of experimentation that appeals to both brewers and consumers.
The market for mead continues to evolve, with a focus on both mass-market appeal and luxury offerings. Citibrew produces a sparkling mead with a low alcohol content for wider consumption, while also creating high-end wine-style meads with unique ingredients. The diversity of mead styles, from traditional to innovative blends, has captured the interest of consumers looking for something different in their beverage choices.
Mead’s health benefits, gluten-free nature, and natural ingredients have also contributed to its popularity among health-conscious consumers. The drink’s easy-drinking profile, compared to craft beers, makes it a versatile option for a wide range of drinkers. Mead’s potential as a cocktail ingredient and its suitability for various occasions have further solidified its position in the beverage market.
Despite its growing popularity, mead production remains a labor-intensive and costly process. The need for education and awareness among distributors and retailers poses a challenge for mead makers looking to expand their reach. However, with a projected global market value of $1.4 billion by 2032, the future looks promising for the mead industry.
In conclusion, mead’s revival as a contemporary and versatile drink reflects a shift towards unique and artisanal beverages in the market. With a rich history, diverse flavor profiles, and a growing consumer base, mead is poised for a steady and upward trajectory in the beverage industry. As more people discover the complexity and charm of mead, it may soon become a staple on bar menus and in homes around the world.