Simple Sweet Mead
Experience the art of mead-making with this Simple Sweet Mead Recipe, using the floral notes of Tupelo or Orange Blossom honey. This homebrew creation offers a refreshing taste profile, perfect for sunny gatherings or cozy evenings. Fermenting with Lalvin 71B-1122 yeast ensures a smooth finish, while staggered nutrient additions promote healthy fermentation. Discover the pleasures of crafting your own sweet nectar with this straightforward guide.
ingredients
- 18 lbs of honey (Tupelo or Orange Blossom)
- 5 gallons of water
- 1 packet of Lalvin 71B-1122 yeast
- 1 oz of GoFerm yeast nutrient
- 3 oz of Fermaid-K yeast nutrient
steps
- 1.
In a large sanitized fermentation vessel, mix the 18 lbs of honey with water to achieve a total of 5 gallons of must. Stir thoroughly until the honey is completely dissolved.
- 2.
Lightly warm a small amount of water (not exceeding 104°F) and add the GoFerm yeast nutrient. Stir gently and allow to cool to room temperature.
- 3.
Sprinkle the Lalvin 71B-1122 yeast over the hydrated GoFerm mixture, let it sit for 15 minutes, then stir gently and pitch it into the must.
- 4.
Seal the fermentation vessel with an airlock and place it in a dark, temperature-controlled area (ideally around 68-72°F).
- 5.
Add 1 oz of Fermaid-K nutrient at 24, 48, and 72 hours after pitching the yeast. Additionally, monitor the fermentation and add Fermaid-K at the 1/3 sugar break.
- 6.
Allow fermentation to proceed for about 4-6 weeks, until bubbling has ceased and specific gravity is stable.
- 7.
Once fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into sanitized bottles, avoiding the sediment, and cork them.
- 8.
Let the mead age for at least 3 months for best flavor, then chill, serve, and enjoy!
