Autumn Harvest Mead
Embrace the spirit of fall with this Autumn Harvest Mead, a beautifully brewed blend of honey, crisp apples, and warm cinnamon. Each sip captures the essence of harvest festivals, creating a cozy drink perfect for chilly evenings. Ideal for sharing with friends or savoring by the fireplace, this mead transforms simple ingredients into a seasonal celebration.
ingredients
- 2 quarts filtered water
- 3 cups Golden Harvest Honey (Smitty Bee)
- 4 medium apples, chopped (preferably Honeycrisp or Gala)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 teaspoon yeast (champagne or mead yeast)
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice (optional for extra warmth)
- 1/2 cup raisins (for added fermentation and sweetness)
steps
- 1.
In a large pot, bring the filtered water to a boil, then remove it from heat.
- 2.
Stir in the honey until completely dissolved, creating a sweet, golden mixture.
- 3.
Add the chopped apples, cinnamon stick, and allspice (if using) to the pot.
- 4.
Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then strain out the solids.
- 5.
Transfer the liquid to a sanitized fermentation vessel, leaving some space at the top.
- 6.
Sprinkle the yeast on top of the liquid; do not stir. Cover with an airlock and let ferment for about 4-6 weeks.
- 7.
After fermentation, gently siphon the mead into sanitized bottles, leaving sediment behind.
- 8.
Add a tablespoon of raisins to each bottle before sealing for natural carbonation.
- 9.
Store the bottles in a cool, dark place for at least 1-2 months for flavors to meld.
- 10.
Chill, serve, and enjoy your Autumn Elixir Mead as the leaves change!
