Given the huge popularity of movies, television shows, and books that are set during medieval times, it is safe to say that many things from that time capture our attention. If it weren’t for the establishment of the modern-day meadery, we might never know what the drink of that era was like. Mead has been around for as many as 4,000 years because it was easy enough to make when there wasn’t much around to create an alcoholic beverage. Basic mead is crafted only from honey with some sort of bacterial culture or yeast, along with water, hence why it is often referred to as honey wine. People enjoyed experimenting with it from there with additions such as flowers, fruits, spices, roots, herbs, and grains that weren’t necessary if unavailable, but added a different dimension to the result.
Today’s meadery is far removed from the dark and dreary halls of medieval times, although some things have stayed the same. It is still a great place to hang out with other mead enthusiasts for one thing. Experimentation still has a huge influence on the meads you find, as well. If you plan to visit Lenoir & the NC foothills, you need to check out MoonJoy Meadery, in Lenoir, North Carolina.
With more than a dozen different meads available at any given time, you are sure to find ones that you’ll love. Their meads are made with local ingredients and are gluten free. Meads can run from sweet to dry, but you’ll have no trouble figuring out what to try with their knowledgeable and friendly staff assisting you. Grab a flight and check out their drinking horns ,and you’ll travel back in time to connect with your inner medieval self.