Make Mead Like a Viking summary

Exploring the Ancient Art of Mead Making

In Make Mead Like a Viking by Jereme Zimmerman, we embark on a journey into the world of mead, the ancient alcoholic beverage made from fermenting honey and water. The author introduces us to the history and cultural significance of mead, detailing its roots in Norse mythology and its association with the Vikings, who were renowned for their love of this sweet and intoxicating drink.

Zimmerman's approach to mead making is refreshingly unconventional. He encourages us to embrace the raw, earthy nature of the process, advocating for the use of locally sourced, organic ingredients and eschewing the need for expensive equipment. He emphasizes the importance of a DIY ethos, urging us to forage for wild herbs and fruits, and even to keep our own bees if we can.

Embracing the Wild Side of Mead Making

The author introduces us to a variety of mead styles, including melomels (fruit-infused meads), metheglins (spiced meads), and braggots (a blend of mead and beer). He also discusses the use of alternative fermentable sources such as malted grains, and even explores the Ethiopian honey wine, t’ej. Zimmerman's recipes are refreshingly free-form, encouraging experimentation and the use of whatever ingredients are available.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Make Mead Like a Viking is Zimmerman's emphasis on the mystical and spiritual aspects of mead making. He delves into the ancient traditions and rituals associated with brewing mead, suggesting that we can infuse our own batches with intention and magic. He also explores the medicinal properties of the herbs and botanicals commonly used in mead making, highlighting the potential health benefits of this ancient drink.

Practical Tips for the Modern Mead Maker

While Zimmerman's approach is deeply rooted in tradition, he also provides practical advice for the modern mead maker. He discusses fermentation techniques, equipment options, and troubleshooting tips, ensuring that even beginners will feel confident in their ability to brew their own mead. He also includes a comprehensive guide to the different types of honey and their flavor profiles, helping us understand how to choose the best honey for our brews.

Throughout the book, Zimmerman's passion for his subject shines through. His writing is infused with a sense of wonder and reverence for the natural world, and his enthusiasm is infectious. He encourages us to slow down and savor the process of mead making, to connect with the land and the seasons, and to honor the ancient traditions that have shaped this remarkable beverage.

A Call to Embrace the Spirit of the Viking Brewer

In conclusion, Make Mead Like a Viking is more than just a practical guide to brewing mead. It is a call to embrace our inner Viking, to reconnect with the earth, and to reclaim the lost art of fermentation. Zimmerman's approach is inclusive and accessible, inviting us to explore our own creativity and intuition in the pursuit of this ancient craft. By the end of the book, we are left with a deep appreciation for the transformative power of honey, and a desire to embark on our own mead-making adventures.