Mead, one of the world’s oldest fermented beverages, is making a strong comeback, especially as a refreshing drink for summer. Crafted from honey, water, and yeast, this versatile beverage offers a wide spectrum of flavours, from crisp and dry to rich and fruity. Their natural sweetness, balanced acidity, and diverse styles make these award-winning meads a fantastic choice to beat sweltering heat.
Unlike heavier spirits or rich red wines, meads can be light, effervescent, and infused with summer-friendly ingredients like citrus, tropical fruits, and fragrant herbs. Some are crisp and sparkling, perfect for a poolside afternoon, while others have a smooth, honeyed depth that makes them a great alternative to traditional summer cocktails. Whether you prefer something dry and floral or bold and spiced, there’s a mead to suit every taste.
Exploring meads during summer is an exciting way to expand your beverage choices beyond conventional options. Their refreshing profile pairs beautifully with seasonal dishes, making them ideal for barbecues, picnics, and laid-back gatherings. With a growing selection of artisanal meads now available, there’s never been a better time to embrace this ancient drink and discover the best varieties to enjoy all summer long.
Also Read: 12 Fascinating Facts About Gin
Award-Winning Meads to Try This Summer
HIK! Blueberry Mead
This vibrant, fruit-forward mead boasts a striking ruby-red hue, enticing the senses with floral honey aromas and the luscious scent of ripe blueberries. On the palate, it delivers a delightful interplay of sweet honey and tart blueberry, complemented by a smooth, earthy undertone that lingers elegantly. The semi-sweet profile offers just the right balance, making it a refreshing choice for warm weather. Its bright acidity and natural sweetness allow it to pair beautifully with rich and aromatic dishes like vegetable biryani, rajma masala, or indulgent mutton keema. Whether enjoyed chilled on a sunny afternoon or served alongside a hearty meal, this mead provides a unique and flavourful drinking experience.
Producer: Orrchid Brews Pvt. Ltd.
Price: ₹180
Cerana Blue Pea Lavender Mead
This elegant mead offers a beautifully floral and herbaceous profile, infused with the delicate essence of lavender and blue pea flowers. The nose is greeted with soft, aromatic notes of honey and lavender, while the palate unfolds with a subtle earthiness and a gentle sweetness that lingers. Its light yet complex character makes it a refreshing choice, reminiscent of a chilled herbal infusion but with added depth. This mead pairs wonderfully with light summer salads, grilled fish, or citrusy desserts, enhancing their fresh and zesty elements. Ideal for warm evenings, it provides a unique, floral twist on traditional mead, making it both soothing and sophisticated.
Producer: Cerana Meads
Price: ₹199
Also Read: Popular Brandy Cocktails You Need To Try
HIK! Guava Mead
Bursting with tropical vibrancy, this guava-infused mead delivers a refreshing fusion of sweet honey, ripe guava, and a tangy citrus finish. The palate is lively yet balanced, with a crisp, slightly dry texture that keeps it from being overly sweet. Its bright, juicy character makes it a perfect companion for bold and zesty dishes. Pair it with spicy Indian chaats, tangy tacos, or smoky grilled paneer to enhance the contrast of flavours. The tropical fruitiness of guava makes this mead an exciting, summery drink that brings a fun, exotic twist to traditional honey wine.
Producer: Orrchid Brews Pvt. Ltd.
Price: ₹180
5 Tips to Choose the Right Mead During Summer
1️⃣ Go for Light and Refreshing Styles
Opt for session meads or hydromels, which have a lower alcohol content and a crisp, refreshing taste—perfect for hot weather.
2️⃣ Pick Fruity and Citrus-Forward Meads
Meads infused with tropical fruits like mango, guava, or citrus (lemon, orange) offer a juicy, thirst-quenching experience ideal for summer sipping.
3️⃣ Look for Floral or Herbal Notes
Meads with lavender, hibiscus, or chamomile bring a delicate, aromatic touch that feels light and soothing in warm temperatures.
4️⃣ Check for a Balanced Sweetness
A semi-dry or off-dry mead works best in summer, as it offers the right mix of honeyed richness and refreshing acidity without being too heavy.
5️⃣ Serve It Chilled or Over Ice
Pick meads that can be served cold—sparkling or lightly carbonated meads work exceptionally well for a crisp, bubbly summer drink.
Looking for more such amazing wines and spirits recommendations? Click here to check out our blogs.
