How can you tell if mead is not fermenting?

In this post, we go over (1) how can you tell if mead is not fermenting, (2) the shelf the lifetime of mead, and (3) alternatives to mead if it goes bad.

How Can You Tell If Mead Is Not Fermenting?

Because of the more significant preservatives used in mead, it will not quickly get rotten. Instead, it undergoes a lengthy process during production.

However, sometimes improper storage or weather, oxidation, and time can result in loss of flavor. So if you’ve stumbled across an old mead bottle that was long gone or was kept in the refrigerator for some time, it is recommended to give it an inspection.

If the mead becomes terrible, there will be an occasional change in color. While it’s not common but it could happen. Therefore, look out for any type of color shift. If the color seems to be okay, then give it a go the test.

In addition to color changes in mead, it will show changes in its texture when it spoils. So if it’s too thick or water-like, look at it as a sign of spoilage. For the taste, meads that taste bitter are an absolute no-no and will undoubtedly make you sick.

When mead is spoiled, it may also produce the impression of a rancid smell. If you experience these, it’s evident that it has gone to waste, and you should steer clear of them.

However, as we’ve already mentioned, mead will not be deficient in a flash. It’s a process that takes time and generally will go wrong once it’s passed its shelf time.

What is the shelf life-time for mead?

The shelf life, or how long it lasts, largely depends on the kind of mead you’ve got. Various kinds of mead are available on the market, as are their shelf lives.

Classic mead has a higher percentage of alcohol and, therefore, will last longer than lighter meads. If you have a classic open bottle of mead, the chances are it will last for several months or perhaps an entire year if it is stored correctly.

However, a lighter mead has less alcohol and less shelf-life. Therefore, the best method to monitor the quality of your mead is to check its best-by-date. If you’re drinking a lighter mead or a traditional one, both are at the top of their flavors when properly stored and aren’t past their best-by date.

This does not mean that it’s undrinkable. You can enjoy it for the coming months. Make sure that it smells well; the texture is perfect, as is the color.

The basic idea is that classic mead, when opened, must be consumed within six months after being stored and eight months if refrigerated. However, the lighter meads are at the top of their flavor after seven days of opening and can be consumed in 6 months.

However, we generally suggest drinking lighter mead as soon as you open it since the flavor could decrease due to lower levels of alcohol and preservatives.

When you make your mead, it’s something a little different. Be sure to keep it in an air-tight bottle and consume it immediately.

What Are Alternatives if Mead Goes Bad?

If you’re planning an event planned and are running low on mead, you could make use of the following options:

• White wine
• Strong pale ale beers
• Honey + Rosemary
• Bourbon
• Home Brewed Mead