Bragging About Braggots: Meads’ Role in The Craft Beer World

Let’s talk about Braggots!

First of all, what is a Braggot? A very old way of making meads, comes from the 1300s, a blend of spices and herbs mixed in with meads, and even beers. There is a honey character as well as bitterness from the hops. One taste is not overwhelming to the other, but you should always get a bit of sweetness in every sip.


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Braggots are members of the much bigger family of Meads. Meads brew by fermenting honey and water, and adding spices to make them different. There are quite a few kinds of meads out there, and they are beginning to take off in popularity.

Braggots themselves have not been recognizable in the craft beer movement up until more recently. Since they can be 6% all the way to a 12% ABV, they are unpredictable, and can be hit or miss. Brewers must be cautious.

They also seem to appear more in the midwest, moving on to the Eastern United States. There are meaderies popping up more and more, and are rising up in popularity. B Nektar in Ferndale, Michigan puts their heart and soul into the meads. So much so, they don’t even have any beers in the tap room currently.

If you are ever in Spokane, Washington stop into Bellweather Brewing. Beers brewed here are old world fashion, and they have a braggot worth stopping in for.

Stop into a liquor store and you may notice the aisles are growing more and more with meads. Meads are sold almost as fast as they can be put out.

For being as exclusive as craft beer is, adding another type to the table is welcome. Meads have a permanent place on the shelves, and in our hearts.

Until next time beer snobs, drink some beers and drink some braggots!

Devon Kenney
Devon Kenney
A Washingtonian born and raised, trying to make my way in Indiana. A nerd from head to toe. In love with craft beer, horror, and Hall and Oates. Graduate from Academy of Art University with a degree in Screenwriting. Find me on Twitter and Instagram @Nightynight34