what do you drink mead out of

2 min read 25-12-2024

Mead, the ancient fermented honey beverage, deserves to be enjoyed in style. The question of what to drink mead out of isn't just about practicality; it's about enhancing the drinking experience and appreciating the history and craftsmanship of this unique drink. This guide explores various vessels, from the traditional to the contemporary, offering insights into the best ways to savor your mead.

Traditional Mead Drinking Vessels

Historically, the choice of vessel depended heavily on availability and social standing. While many materials were used, some stand out as particularly relevant to the mead-drinking experience:

1. Wooden Cups and Tankards:

History: These were common among various cultures throughout history, offering a rustic and earthy feel. Different woods imparted subtle flavors and aromas.
Modern Use: Wooden tankards still offer a charming and authentic way to drink mead. Look for food-safe, well-finished woods to prevent leaching. They are perfect for meads with bolder, spicier profiles.
Pros: Aesthetically pleasing, environmentally friendly (if sustainably sourced), and can add a subtle note to the flavor profile.
Cons: Require more care and cleaning than other materials; can be prone to cracking or warping.

2. Horn Drinking Vessels:

History: Drinking from animal horns was prevalent in many ancient cultures, signifying strength and connection to nature.
Modern Use: Though less common today, horn drinking vessels offer a unique and historically significant way to enjoy mead. Their shape often lends itself to meads with a stronger body.
Pros: Unique and visually striking.
Cons: Can be expensive, require careful cleaning, and may not be suitable for all meads (especially sweeter ones).

3. Ceramic and Pottery Cups & Goblets:

History: Earthenware and pottery provided a readily available and versatile option for mead consumption. Styles varied widely across cultures and time periods.
Modern Use: Ceramic and pottery remain a popular choice, offering a wide range of styles, from simple mugs to elaborate goblets. Glazed ceramics are easy to clean.
Pros: Affordable, readily available, easy to clean, durable, and come in a wide variety of styles.
Cons: Can chip or break if dropped.

Modern Vessels for Mead

While tradition is important, many modern options complement mead perfectly:

4. Wine Glasses:

Aromatics: For lighter, sweeter meads, a white wine glass allows the aromas to fully develop.
Body: For fuller-bodied meads, consider a slightly larger, more robust glass.
Variety: Experiment with different wine glass shapes to find what works best for your preferred mead style.

5. Tumblers and Rocks Glasses:

Ice: These are ideal for serving meads on the rocks or with additions like fruit or spices.
Casual: They offer a more casual and relaxed drinking experience.

6. Pint Glasses:

Easy: A straightforward and convenient option for everyday drinking.
Casual: Suits a range of mead styles.

Choosing the Right Vessel: Considerations

The best vessel for your mead depends on several factors:

Mead Style: Lighter meads benefit from glasses that allow aromas to develop, while fuller-bodied meads can stand up to more robust vessels.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best vessel is the one you enjoy drinking from most.
Occasion: A formal occasion may call for elegant glassware, while a casual gathering might be better suited to tumblers or pint glasses.

Conclusion: Raise a Glass (or Tankard!) to Mead

From traditional wooden tankards to modern wine glasses, the choice of vessel is an important part of the mead-drinking experience. Experiment to find what enhances your enjoyment of this ancient and versatile beverage. No matter what you choose, remember to savor the flavor and history that each sip brings!