Review: Hive and Barrel Hibiscus Mead

Kentucky’s Hive and Barrel Meadery has been making mead and cider in the Louisville suburbs for a decade. Their meads tend towards the sweeter side with a few detours into chipotle and hot peppers. We recently had the chance to sit down with their Hibiscus semi-sweet.

Medium violet in the glass, lots of honey on the nose, along with apple blossom, cherry, and blueberry. Up front, this is more sweet than semi-sweet, a bit of tartness on the mid-palate surrounded by notes of cherry and white grape, honey notes, and blossom, finish is mostly of hibiscus, with tart cranberry balanced out by the sweetness. Light roasted note on the end. Medium plus body. One member of the tasting panel said it tastes like a lighter version of port.

Charted Details:

Mead: Hibiscus Semi-Sweet

From: Hive and Barrel Meadery, Louisville, Kentucky

ABV: 12%

Price: $15 (375ml)

Rating: 90 points