Helderberg Meadworks

Spent a gray but lovely Saturday afternoon at Helderberg Meadworks. The perfect spot to enjoy the nectar of the Gods.

What Is Mead?

Mead is alcohol made simply with honey, yeast, and water. Mead holds the title of Oldest Alcoholic Drink on Earth, dating back to 9000 BC. Mead types run the gamut, from sweet to dry, still to sparkling, fruited and spiced, and a million local honey variations. There is a mead for every palate.

I picked out a flight for myself consisting of Feral at 13% ABV, and Sweet Feral at 12% ABV which are both classified as traditional meads (which are only honey, yeast, and water). The other two tasters were Blackbraid a Mead Variety (which can contain fruit, spices, or herbs) at 13%ABV, and Thor’s Cherry Smash which was made for the Ale Horn (which enhances natural flavors by allowing the mead to breathe) which came in at 13% ABV.

The Feral which gets its name from the fact that it’s fermented with wild yeast has a lovely nose of floral honey. Upon tasting, it has an initial dryness but finishes with a mild sweetness which provides an easy smooth drinkability. The Sweet Feral had a fruity sweet honey nose. As soon as it hit my tongue it was way too sweet for me, sticky sweet, but I guess the name should have been a dead giveaway! This one was like eating a teaspoon full of honey, so I passed on finishing it. However, for the sweet fans out there I’m sure you’d find this one to be a winner.

Next up was Blackbraid, which is a collaboration mead with the American black metal band Blackbraid Cvlt from the Adirondack region of NY Blackbraid, a Black Metal Musician With Native American Roots – The New York Times (nytimes.com). Fruity and sweet on the nose, it pours a lovely shade of pink thanks to blueberries and red sumac. The flavor starts sweet but ends with a crisp tartness which is quite enjoyable. Next trip, I’ll order this one in a full 8oz pour.

The final taster in my flight was Thor’s Cherry Smash made with local cherries. A nose of dry cherry left me thinking I had made a bad personal choice with this one. My gut reaction was spot on, very dry and full of tart cherry flavor. Luckily my companion is a huge cherry fan so I handed this off to them and they were very pleased with the tasting experience.

As I made my way up to the bar to return my flight, bartender Jessica noticed that I hadn’t finished my Sweet Feral. The Sweet Feral had been her recommendation so she immediately felt the need to rectify her mistake. I declined saying no worries, but she insisted I try a 4 oz tasting of the Feral and Sweet Feral poured together. This time she hit the nail right on the head for my palate. As enjoyable as the Feral had been alone the addition of the Sweet Feral sent it over the top in deliciousness. I thanked her for her kindness and quick thinking. A pleasant knowledgeable bartender always enhances the visit while promoting return business.

My last drink of the day came in the form of the Session carbonated mead, which comes in at 8% ABV. Honey on the nose, and mildly sweet but with an appealing honey flavor throughout. The carbonation gives it a nice lightness so you can enjoy this delightful mead all day long. A champagne among meads if you will, honey and bubbles.

Helderberg Meadworks offers an assortment of Ale Horns and holsters for purchase. Because let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to drink Mead like a Viking? I purchased one for myself and can’t wait to fill it up on my next visit. It comes with directions on how to maintain your Ale Horn for use for years to come.

Esperance may seem a bit out of the way, but the experience you’ll have at Helderberg Meadworks makes the drive completely worthwhile. The inside seating area is roomy yet cozy. With about a dozen seats at the bar and a half dozen tables and comfy chairs throughout the taproom.

When you pull in you’ll be certain to notice the expansive outdoor patio and lawn area with one of the best views around. I’ll be back soon to enjoy the view and of course the Mead! Skol!!

A Little Bit Extra

Every August Helderberg Meadworks has a 2 day celebration of International Mead Day. This year the party starts on Saturday, August 3rd. You’ll find a variety of food trucks, vendors, and activities available. There will be some fantastic musical entertainment from The Wandering Monsters, and Monkey and The Crowbar. Also on Saturday Helderberg Meadworks will be donating $1 from every glass fill to Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter. As always furry friends are welcome to join in the celebrating🎉 Sundays celebration starts with Gershon’s Brunch. Add International Mead Day to your calendar now, come on out and enjoy all the fun mead can bring!