Harvest Moon Braggot

Celebrate the season with our Harvest Moon Braggot, an enchanting fusion of golden honey, rich malt, and the vibrant essence of late harvest apples. Infused with a hint of warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this mead embodies the warmth of harvest gatherings and crisp evenings. Ideal for toasting with friends or savoring alone, its complex flavors will leave you glowing.
ingredients
- 1 gallon water
- 2 cups local honey
- 2 cups apple juice (freshly pressed preferred)
- 1 lb pale malt extract
- 1/2 lb specialty grains (crystal or caramel malt)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp whole cloves
- 1 packet of mead yeast (like Lalvin D47)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for priming)
steps
- 1.
In a large pot, bring the water to a boil and then remove from heat.
- 2.
Steep the specialty grains in the hot water for 30 minutes; strain and return the liquid to the pot.
- 3.
Add the pale malt extract, honey, and apple juice to the pot while stirring.
- 4.
Return the mixture to a gentle boil, then incorporate cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- 5.
Boil for 15-20 minutes, then cool the wort to room temperature.
- 6.
Transfer the cooled mixture to a sanitized fermentation vessel, topping off with additional water if required.
- 7.
Sprinkle the mead yeast on top and seal the vessel with an airlock.
- 8.
Allow fermentation in a cool, dark spot for 4-6 weeks, checking for bubbling activity.
- 9.
After fermentation, create a priming solution by dissolving brown sugar in a small amount of boiling water.
- 10.
Bottle the braggot, leaving headspace, and add a small amount of priming solution to each bottle.
- 11.
Cap the bottles and let them condition for 2-4 weeks in a cool, dark place before enjoying!