Yule Spiced Cyser
Embrace the season with this rich and warming Yule mead, infused with honey, spices, and seasonal fruits. This ancient beverage captures the essence of winter festivities, perfect for sharing with loved ones around a crackling fire. The blend of honey and fruit creates a naturally sweet flavor, complemented by aromatic spices, making this mead a truly enchanting holiday tradition.
ingredients
- 3 quarts water
- 2 cups honey
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon allspice berries
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 packet Lalvin ICV D-47 yeast
- 1 cup unsweetened apple juice (for secondary fermentation)
steps
- 1.
In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil.
- 2.
Stir in the honey until fully dissolved, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- 3.
Add the apple cider, cinnamon stick, cloves, allspice, orange slices, and raisins.
- 4.
Simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- 5.
Remove from heat, transferring the mixture to a sanitized fermentation vessel.
- 6.
Add 1 quart of cool water to bring down the temperature.
- 7.
Once cooled to around 70°F, sprinkle yeast on top and stir gently.
- 8.
Seal the vessel with an airlock and let it ferment in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks.
- 9.
After fermentation, siphon into clean bottles, adding apple juice for added sweetness.
- 10.
Cap bottles and allow to age for another month before serving.
