FAQ — Random Access Meadery

Question 1

What is mead?

Accepted Answer

Mead is an alcoholic drink made by fermenting honey with water. It is one of the oldest alcoholic drinks in the world, with evidence of honey fermentation dating back thousands of years. Depending on the recipe, mead can range from sweet to dry, still to sparkling, and can include fruit, spices, herbs, or botanicals. It is a remarkably versatile drink with a history that spans almost every culture on earth.

Question 2

How is mead made?

Accepted Answer

Mead is made by mixing honey with water to create a liquid known as the must. Yeast is then added, which converts the natural sugars in the honey into alcohol. The fermentation process can take several weeks, and additional ingredients such as fruit or spices can be included to create different styles. Once fermentation is complete, the mead is bottled and allowed to develop further before it is ready to drink. At Random Access Meadery, every batch is handcrafted in small quantities to ensure quality at every stage.

Question 3

Why choose Random Access Meadery?

Accepted Answer

We make craft mead for today. That means modern flavours, modern branding, and a genuine willingness to experiment. Every batch is handcrafted in small quantities, which means we can focus on quality and try things that larger producers simply cannot. We are not trying to recreate the past. We are interested in where British mead goes next.

Question 4

What bottle sizes do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Our current range is available in 375ml bottles. This size is ideal for trying a new craft mead without committing to a full bottle, and makes our meads easy to gift or share. We may introduce additional sizes in the future as the range grows.

Question 5

Why does mead cost more than beer or cider?

Accepted Answer

The main reason is honey. Honey is significantly more expensive than the grains or apples used to make beer and cider. Producing mead also takes more time than many other drinks, as fermentation and conditioning cannot be rushed without affecting quality. Small batch production means we do not benefit from the economies of scale that larger producers enjoy. The result is a drink that costs more to make, but offers something genuinely different and worth savouring.

Question 6

How should I serve mead?

Accepted Answer

Mead can be enjoyed in a number of ways. Many people prefer it chilled, particularly lighter or fruit-based styles like Silverpine. Stronger, spiced meads such as Emberfall can also be enjoyed at room temperature. You can serve it in a wine glass, a tumbler, or however feels right to you. There are no strict rules, and part of the enjoyment is finding what works best for you.

Question 7

Can I reserve a custom batch?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer a custom batch programme for those who want something truly unique. Whether you have a specific flavour in mind, a special occasion to mark, or simply want a craft mead that nobody else has, we can work with you from concept to bottle. Visit our Reserve a Custom Batch page to find out more and submit an enquiry. We respond within 48 hours.

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