50+ Delicious Winter Mead Recipes to Keep You Warm

As the winter chill settles in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, inviting glass of mead to brighten those cold, cozy evenings.

Mead, often referred to as the “nectar of the gods,” has been enjoyed for centuries and comes in a wide variety of flavors, perfect for the season.

From fruity and spiced to floral and herbal, winter meads offer an endless array of possibilities for both seasoned brewers and newcomers alike.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a holiday gathering, create a unique gift, or simply indulge in a comforting beverage by the fire, our collection of 50+ winter mead recipes has something for everyone.

Each recipe captures the essence of winter, combining rich flavors and aromas that will warm your heart and spirit.

So gather your ingredients, grab your fermentation vessel, and let’s dive into the delightful world of winter mead making!

50+ Delicious Winter Mead Recipes to Keep You Warm

Exploring the realm of winter mead recipes opens up a world of creativity and flavor, perfect for celebrating the season.

With over 50 unique recipes to choose from, you can experiment with various ingredients, styles, and flavor profiles, ensuring that there’s always something new to try.

Whether you prefer the comforting warmth of spiced meads, the tartness of fruity blends, or the soothing notes of herbal concoctions, there’s a winter mead recipe that will suit your taste.

As you embark on your mead-making journey, remember to share your creations with friends and family, savoring the joy and warmth that these homemade beverages bring.

Cheers to the winter season and the delightful meads that make it even more special!

Cinnamon-Spiced Winter Mead

This delightful winter mead combines the warmth of cinnamon with the rich sweetness of honey, making it the perfect beverage for chilly evenings. It’s aromatic and smooth, and its flavor only improves with time, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the winter months.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon of whole cloves
• 1 teaspoon of allspice berries
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin D-47)
• 1 orange, sliced (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the honey and water over medium heat, stirring until the honey is completely dissolved.
2. Once dissolved, bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and allspice berries. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. If using, add the orange slices for additional flavor.
4. Once cooled, transfer the mixture to a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the yeast. Seal the vessel with an airlock.
5. Allow the mead to ferment in a cool, dark place for 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into bottles, leaving sediment behind.
6. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool, dark place for at least 3 months before tasting.

This cinnamon-spiced mead is a wonderful addition to your winter festivities. Its spiced aroma and comforting flavor make it an excellent pairing with holiday meals or a cozy fireside gathering. As it ages, the flavors meld beautifully, allowing the spices to mellow and blend, creating a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience.

Apple Cider Mead

Capturing the essence of autumn and winter, this apple cider mead is refreshingly fruity with a hint of spice. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or simply to sip by the fireplace, offering a sweet yet tart flavor profile that is incredibly inviting.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of fresh apple cider (non-pasteurized if possible)
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin EC-1118)
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon of allspice (optional)
• 1 sliced apple for flavor (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the honey and apple cider over medium heat. Stir until the honey is dissolved. Do not bring to a boil.
2. Once the honey is dissolved, remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
3. Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, stirring well to combine. If desired, add the sliced apple for additional flavor.
4. Pour the mixture into a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the mead yeast. Seal the vessel with an airlock.
5. Let the mead ferment in a cool, dark place for about 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon into clean bottles, leaving behind any sediment.
6. Seal and store the bottles in a cool place for at least 2 months before enjoying.

This apple cider mead is a fantastic way to embrace the flavors of winter while enjoying the crispness of apple. Its balanced sweetness and spice make it versatile enough to serve chilled or warmed, perfect for cozy nights or festive celebrations. The combination of apple and honey creates a harmonious flavor that evolves over time, promising delightful sips throughout the winter season.

Gingerbread Mead

Inspired by the classic holiday cookie, this gingerbread mead is rich and flavorful, filled with spices that evoke the warmth of the season. Its unique profile makes it a standout drink for holiday parties or as a comforting beverage to enjoy on a cold winter’s night.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger (or 2 teaspoons of ground ginger)
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon of cloves
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin K1-V1116)
• 1/2 cup of molasses

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the honey and water over medium heat. Stir until the honey dissolves completely.
2. Add the grated ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and molasses to the mixture. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer for about 15 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to cool.
3. Once cooled, pour the mixture into a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the mead yeast. Seal with an airlock.
4. Ferment in a cool, dark location for about 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is finished, siphon the mead into bottles, avoiding sediment.
5. Cap the bottles and store them for at least 3 months to allow the flavors to mature.

This gingerbread mead is a delightful way to celebrate the winter season, combining the comforting flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses. Its robust flavor makes it perfect for sipping on a cold evening or serving to guests during festive gatherings. As the mead ages, the spiciness mellows and deepens, enhancing the overall taste and making each sip a nostalgic journey through the winter holidays.

Cranberry Orange Mead

This vibrant cranberry orange mead is a festive drink that captures the essence of winter celebrations. With its tart cranberries and bright orange flavor, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in. Its refreshing profile complements both sweet and savory dishes, making it a versatile addition to your winter beverage lineup.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 4 cups of fresh cranberries (or frozen)
• 1 orange, zested and juiced
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin 71B)
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil and add the cranberries. Boil for about 10 minutes until they start to burst.
2. Remove the pot from heat and let the cranberry mixture cool slightly. Strain out the cranberries, reserving the liquid.
3. In the same pot, combine the honey and the reserved liquid, stirring until the honey dissolves completely.
4. Add the orange juice and zest, along with the cinnamon if desired. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
5. Pour the mixture into a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the yeast. Seal with an airlock.
6. Ferment in a cool, dark area for about 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into bottles, leaving sediment behind.
7. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool place for at least 2 months before enjoying.

This cranberry orange mead is a delightful addition to any winter celebration, with its lively flavors that evoke the spirit of the season. The tartness of the cranberries pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the honey and the brightness of the orange, creating a refreshing drink that can be enjoyed chilled or warmed. Its stunning color and complex flavors will impress guests and make any gathering feel special.

Nutmeg and Vanilla Bean Mead

Infused with nutmeg and vanilla bean, this creamy mead offers a luxurious drinking experience that evokes the warmth and comfort of winter. Its smooth, aromatic flavors make it a great choice for sipping by the fire or enjoying at holiday gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 1 whole vanilla bean, split and scraped
• 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin D-47)
• 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the water until it simmers. Add the honey and stir until it dissolves completely.
2. Once dissolved, add the split vanilla bean and ground nutmeg to the pot. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature. If desired, add the brown sugar for added richness.
4. Transfer the mixture to a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the yeast. Seal with an airlock.
5. Ferment in a cool, dark place for about 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into bottles, leaving sediment behind.
6. Seal and store the bottles in a cool location for at least 3 months before enjoying.

This nutmeg and vanilla bean mead provides a rich and aromatic experience, perfect for sipping slowly. The combination of creamy vanilla and warm nutmeg creates a comforting flavor profile that pairs beautifully with desserts or holiday treats. Over time, the flavors develop further, offering a deeper and more complex taste that is ideal for cozy winter evenings.

Pineapple Ginger Mead

Bright and zesty, this pineapple ginger mead adds a tropical twist to your winter beverage collection. The sweetness of the pineapple balances the spicy kick of ginger, creating a refreshing drink that can lift your spirits on even the coldest days.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 1 can (about 20 ounces) of crushed pineapple, with juice
• 2 tablespoons of grated fresh ginger (or 1 tablespoon of ground ginger)
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin 71B)
• 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the water, crushed pineapple (with juice), and grated ginger. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Once the mixture begins to simmer, add the honey and stir until it is completely dissolved. Do not boil.
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. Stir in the lemon juice.
4. Pour the mixture into a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the yeast. Seal with an airlock.
5. Let the mead ferment in a cool, dark area for about 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon into bottles, avoiding sediment.
6. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool place for at least 2 months before enjoying.

This pineapple ginger mead is a refreshing and uplifting drink that brightens the winter season with its tropical notes. The combination of sweet pineapple and spicy ginger creates a unique flavor profile that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with light appetizers and desserts. As it ages, the flavors continue to harmonize, offering a delightful sip that transports you to warmer shores amidst the winter chill.

Cardamom Honey Mead

This fragrant cardamom honey mead combines the aromatic spice of cardamom with the rich sweetness of honey, creating a uniquely delightful beverage. Perfect for winter gatherings, this mead’s warm spice notes will comfort you on cold nights and impress your guests with its exotic flair.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 10-12 whole cardamom pods, crushed
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin K1-V1116)
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the water until it reaches a simmer. Add the honey and stir until fully dissolved.
2. Remove the pot from heat and add the crushed cardamom pods. Allow the mixture to steep for about 30 minutes.
3. After steeping, strain out the cardamom pods and allow the honey-water mixture to cool to room temperature. If using, stir in the lemon juice for a hint of brightness.
4. Pour the cooled mixture into a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the mead yeast. Seal with an airlock.
5. Ferment in a cool, dark place for about 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into bottles, avoiding the sediment at the bottom.
6. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool, dark area for at least 3 months before tasting.

This cardamom honey mead is a lovely way to experience the warmth of spices during the winter. The cardamom lends a rich, aromatic character that enhances the honey’s natural sweetness. As the mead ages, the flavors deepen, making it a delightful choice for sipping at holiday gatherings or enjoying by the fire.

Maple Pecan Mead

Infused with the flavors of maple and toasted pecans, this mead brings a taste of cozy comfort to your winter festivities. It’s a sweet and nutty drink that evokes the flavors of a warm pecan pie, making it a fantastic addition to holiday dinners or quiet nights at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 1 cup of pure maple syrup
• 1 cup of toasted pecans, chopped
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin 71B)
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the water and honey over medium heat. Stir until the honey dissolves completely.
2. Once dissolved, add the maple syrup and toasted pecans, stirring well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.
3. Remove the pot from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. If desired, stir in the cinnamon for added warmth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the yeast. Seal with an airlock.
5. Allow the mead to ferment in a cool, dark area for 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into bottles, leaving behind any sediment.
6. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool place for at least 2 months before enjoying.

This maple pecan mead captures the essence of winter with its nutty and sweet flavor profile. The maple syrup adds depth, while the toasted pecans lend a delightful crunch and aroma. It’s an excellent choice for holiday celebrations, pairing wonderfully with desserts or enjoyed on its own for a cozy evening.

Spiced Pear Mead

This elegant spiced pear mead combines the subtle sweetness of pears with warming spices, creating a refreshing yet comforting drink. It’s an excellent way to incorporate seasonal fruits into your winter beverage repertoire, perfect for festive gatherings or a quiet night by the fire.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 4 ripe pears, diced (with skins on)
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin D-47)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the water over medium heat. Add the honey and stir until completely dissolved.
2. Once dissolved, add the diced pears, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. Strain out the pear pieces, reserving the liquid.
4. Pour the reserved liquid into a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the mead yeast. Seal with an airlock.
5. Ferment in a cool, dark place for 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into bottles, avoiding the sediment.
6. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool place for at least 3 months before enjoying.

This spiced pear mead is a delightful blend of sweet and aromatic flavors, perfect for sipping during winter festivities. The combination of ripe pears and warm spices creates a refreshing yet comforting drink that can be enjoyed chilled or warmed. As it ages, the flavors develop, providing a richer and more complex taste that embodies the spirit of the season.

Honey Lavender Mead

This floral honey lavender mead is a delightful combination of sweet honey and aromatic lavender, offering a soothing drink that evokes the essence of a peaceful winter evening. Perfect for relaxing by the fireplace, this mead pairs beautifully with light desserts or can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing sipper.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 1/4 cup of dried culinary lavender
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin K1-V1116)
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the water to a simmer. Add the honey and stir until completely dissolved.
2. Once the honey has dissolved, remove the pot from heat and stir in the dried lavender. Allow the mixture to steep for about 30 minutes.
3. After steeping, strain the lavender from the honey-water mixture and let it cool to room temperature. If desired, stir in the lemon juice for a touch of acidity.
4. Transfer the cooled mixture to a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the mead yeast. Seal with an airlock.
5. Ferment in a cool, dark place for about 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into bottles, avoiding sediment at the bottom.
6. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool place for at least 2 months before enjoying.

This honey lavender mead offers a beautifully balanced flavor that is both sweet and aromatic. The floral notes of lavender harmonize with the rich honey, creating a delicate and refreshing beverage. Its unique taste makes it an excellent choice for winter gatherings, offering a serene experience that can be enjoyed during cozy evenings or served as an elegant accompaniment to your holiday meals.

Chai Spiced Mead

Infused with the warm, aromatic spices of chai, this mead brings a comforting and familiar flavor to your winter gatherings. Perfect for those chilly nights, chai spiced mead offers a unique twist on traditional mead that warms both the body and spirit.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 2 tablespoons of chai tea blend (or 4-5 chai tea bags)
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin 71B)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring the water to a simmer. Add the honey and stir until fully dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and add the chai tea blend (or tea bags), ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground cardamom. Allow the mixture to steep for about 20 minutes.
3. After steeping, strain out the tea leaves or remove the tea bags and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Pour the cooled mixture into a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the mead yeast. Seal with an airlock.
5. Ferment in a cool, dark place for about 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into bottles, leaving sediment behind.
6. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool area for at least 2 months before enjoying.

This chai spiced mead is a warm, inviting drink that encapsulates the essence of winter comfort. The blend of spices creates a rich and flavorful experience, reminiscent of cozy evenings spent with a warm cup of chai. It pairs wonderfully with holiday desserts or can be enjoyed on its own, providing a unique twist to your winter beverage repertoire.

Winter Berry Mead

This refreshing winter berry mead combines the tartness of mixed berries with the sweetness of honey, creating a colorful and flavorful drink that brightens any winter gathering. Ideal for holiday celebrations or casual sipping, this mead brings a burst of fruity goodness to your table.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 4 cups of mixed berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries)
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin 71B)
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the water until it simmers. Add the honey and stir until it is completely dissolved.
2. Once dissolved, remove the pot from heat and add the mixed berries. Allow the mixture to steep for about 30 minutes, mashing the berries gently to release their juices.
3. After steeping, strain the mixture to remove the berry solids and let the liquid cool to room temperature. Stir in the lemon juice.
4. Pour the cooled liquid into a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the mead yeast. Seal with an airlock.
5. Allow the mead to ferment in a cool, dark place for about 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into bottles, avoiding sediment.
6. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool place for at least 2 months before enjoying.

This winter berry mead is a vibrant and delicious drink that celebrates the season’s flavors. The combination of mixed berries adds a tart and fruity profile that perfectly balances the sweetness of the honey. It’s a versatile mead that pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it an excellent choice for winter feasts or festive gatherings. The lively flavors and beautiful color will surely be a hit among friends and family, bringing a touch of summer to your winter celebrations.

Cranberry Orange Mead

This bright and zesty cranberry orange mead combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of honey and the refreshing flavor of oranges. Perfect for holiday celebrations, this mead offers a festive twist that is both refreshing and warming, making it a delightful addition to winter gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 3 cups of fresh or frozen cranberries
• Zest and juice of 2 oranges
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin D-47)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the water to a simmer. Add the honey and stir until it is completely dissolved.
2. Once dissolved, remove the pot from heat and add the cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice. Allow the mixture to steep for about 30 minutes, mashing the cranberries gently to release their juices.
3. After steeping, strain the mixture to remove the solids and let the liquid cool to room temperature.
4. Pour the cooled liquid into a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the mead yeast. Seal with an airlock.
5. Ferment in a cool, dark place for about 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into bottles, avoiding sediment.
6. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool place for at least 2 months before enjoying.

This cranberry orange mead captures the essence of winter festivities with its vibrant flavors and bright color. The tartness of the cranberries balances beautifully with the sweetness of the honey, while the orange adds a refreshing citrus note. Serve this mead chilled or warmed, and it will make a fantastic accompaniment to holiday meals or as a festive toast among friends and family.

Ginger Peach Mead

Combining the sweet flavors of peaches with the warm spiciness of ginger, this ginger peach mead creates a comforting and unique drink perfect for winter. Its delightful aroma and rich flavors make it a wonderful choice for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 4 ripe peaches, pitted and chopped
• 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger (or 1 teaspoon of ground ginger)
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin K1-V1116)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the water to a simmer. Add the honey and stir until completely dissolved.
2. Remove the pot from heat and add the chopped peaches and grated ginger. Allow the mixture to steep for about 30 minutes, gently mashing the peaches to release their juices.
3. After steeping, strain the mixture to remove the solids and let the liquid cool to room temperature.
4. Pour the cooled liquid into a sanitized fermentation vessel and add the mead yeast. Seal with an airlock.
5. Ferment in a cool, dark place for about 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into bottles, avoiding sediment.
6. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool place for at least 2 months before enjoying.

This ginger peach mead offers a deliciously sweet and spicy profile, making it a perfect drink for cold winter evenings. The warmth of the ginger enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches, resulting in a comforting beverage that can be enjoyed chilled or warmed. It pairs well with savory dishes, making it an excellent choice for holiday feasts or as a standalone drink for cozy nights at home.

Pomegranate Spice Mead

This festive pomegranate spice mead blends the tartness of pomegranates with warm spices, creating a vibrant drink that is perfect for winter celebrations. Its unique flavor profile makes it a wonderful addition to holiday gatherings or a refreshing sip during cold evenings.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds of honey
• 1 gallon of water
• 2 cups of pomegranate juice (fresh or store-bought)
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 1 packet of mead yeast (such as Lalvin D-47)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the water to a simmer. Add the honey and stir until fully dissolved.
2. Once dissolved, remove the pot from heat and add the pomegranate juice, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir well to combine.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before transferring it to a sanitized fermentation vessel.
4. Add the mead yeast and seal with an airlock.
5. Allow the mead to ferment in a cool, dark place for about 4 to 6 weeks. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the mead into bottles, avoiding sediment.
6. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool place for at least 2 months before enjoying.

This pomegranate spice mead is a delightful way to celebrate the winter season, offering a beautiful balance of sweet and tart flavors. The addition of warm spices adds a comforting touch that complements the pomegranate’s brightness. Serve this mead chilled for a refreshing sip or gently warmed for a cozy treat during holiday festivities, making it an excellent choice for toasting with friends and family.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!