Lavender Vanilla Mead
Experience the harmonious blend of floral lavender and creamy vanilla with this exquisite Lavender Vanilla Mead. This aromatic beverage offers a soothing escape, perfect for enjoying on tranquil evenings or gifting to someone special. The infusion of simple, natural ingredients creates a refreshing drink that captivates the senses. Brew your own batch and savor the elegant flavors of this unique mead.
ingredients
- 3 lbs honey (preferably wildflower or clover)
- 1.5 quarts filtered water
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
- 1 vanilla bean (split and seeds scraped)
- 1 teaspoon champagne or mead yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon acid blend (optional for balance)
- 1/4 teaspoon potassium metabisulfite (to stabilize, optional)
steps
- 1.
In a medium saucepan, combine water and honey over low heat, stirring gently until full dissolution. Avoid boiling the mixture.
- 2.
Remove from heat and allow to cool until lukewarm.
- 3.
Add dried lavender, the scraped seeds from the vanilla bean, and the split bean.
- 4.
Steep for about 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- 5.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove lavender and vanilla fragments.
- 6.
Pour the cooled infusion into a sanitized fermentation vessel, leaving some headspace.
- 7.
Add yeast and acid blend (if using), stirring gently to combine.
- 8.
Seal the fermentation vessel with an airlock and let it ferment in a dark, cool place for 4 to 6 weeks.
- 9.
After fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into sanitized bottles. If desired, add potassium metabisulfite to stabilize.
- 10.
Cap the bottles and age for an additional 4 to 6 months for optimal flavor.
