Mead’s history likely begins with the discovery of fermentation itself. While there are no definitive records pinpointing the exact time mead was first made, the earliest known references to it date back to 7000–6000 BCE in China. Archaeological evidence suggests that early humans stumbled upon the process of fermentation by accident — perhaps when wild honey mixed with rainwater and naturally fermented.

The earliest known recipe for mead was found in ancient texts of the Sumerians (around 1800 BCE), where it was considered a drink of the gods. Other early references to mead appear in the civilizations of Egypt, Greece, and Rome. It’s believed that honey’s natural preservative qualities allowed mead to last long periods, making it an important and highly regarded drink in ancient cultures.

The ancient Egyptians weren’t just ahead of their time with pyramids and mummies — they also had great taste in drinks. Mead was considered sacred, often linked to Hathor, the goddess of love and joy.

She’s sometimes shown holding a vessel of honeyed wine, which we can only assume made her the life of any divine gathering. The Egyptians also believed mead had healing powers, using it for medicinal purposes — so basically, their version of a cure-all.

If there’s one group that took their mead seriously, it’s the Vikings. They didn’t just drink it — they saw it as a gift straight from the gods. According to Norse legend, Odin himself had a hand in creating the legendary Mead of Poetry, a brew that granted wisdom and poetic genius to anyone who drank it (or at least made them think they were poets).

Mead flowed freely at feasts, ceremonies, and probably after a successful raid — because what’s a good battle without a drink to celebrate?

The Greeks and Romans, never ones to turn down a good drink, had their own take on mead. The Greeks called it melikraton — a mix of honey, water, and sometimes wine (because why stop at just one drink?).

Even the Roman poet Horace gave mead a shoutout in his writings, noting that it was a favourite among the nobility. Whether it was sipped at banquets or enjoyed as a sweeter alternative to wine, mead held its own in the classical world.

Mead might have been the drink of gods, warriors, and poets, but even legends have their rough patches. After the fall of the Roman Empire, mead started losing ground to wine — grapes were everywhere, and vineyards were thriving, making wine the go-to drink across Europe. With trade routes expanding and fancy wines pouring in, mead was slowly pushed to the sidelines.

Then came the beer.

By the Middle Ages, brewing beer had become the new big thing. It was cheaper, easier to produce in bulk, and thanks to hops, it lasted longer. Before long, beer had taken over taverns, while mead was left lingering in the background like a forgotten relic.

But here’s the thing — good things don’t stay forgotten forever. Mead is making a well-deserved comeback, and at Woden Mead, we’re bringing it back in all its glory, one bottle at a time.

Mead might have spent a few centuries out of the spotlight, but it never really disappeared. While city folk were busy with their wines and beers, mead quietly carried on in the countryside, brewed by those who stuck to the old ways, passing recipes down through generations.

Then came the 20th century, and with it, a shift — people started looking back at traditional foods and drinks. By the 1960s and 70s, mead was creeping back into the world, no longer just a relic of history but something to be rediscovered.

Fast forward to the craft beer boom of the 80s and 90s, and suddenly, mead was getting the attention it deserved. Brewers began experimenting, adding fruits, herbs, and spices, pushing mead into exciting new territory. Today, the world of craft alcohol is embracing mead again, blending ancient tradition with modern creativity.

Mead isn’t just back — it’s thriving. Across the world, brewers are rediscovering this legendary drink, experimenting with bold new flavours while staying true to its deep roots. Festivals, competitions, and an ever-growing community of enthusiasts are proving what we’ve always known — mead is timeless.

At Woden Mead, we’re not just part of the revival — we’re driving it. Our range is crafted with the finest ingredients, honouring tradition while making sure every bottle is something truly special. Whether you’re after the deep, rich character of our Special Reserve, the bright, floral notes of Elderflower, the bold kick of Cherry, the citrusy zing of Blushing Citrus, or the pure, untamed taste of Ancestral, we’ve got a mead for every moment.

This isn’t just history in a bottle — it’s a drink that deserves its place at your table today. So, why wait? Stock up on a true taste of tradition with Woden Mead. Order now and raise a glass to the return of the greatest drink ever made.