Golden Coast Mead Orange Blossom
What the brewers say
“This lighter mead derives its natural hints of citrus from the California Orange Blossom Honey from which it is made.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Nice honey aroma up front (grapes and orange and sweet floral aroma), light tannins, light alcohol, very light fruity berries (raspberries, blackberries), light jasmine flowers, light honey sweetness, a hint of sage. Sweet honey is lightly caramelly and slightly raw-honey, light fruity esters, slightly musky citrus notes, soft alcohol, and light carbonics.”
Flavor: " Soft honey up front with light pear and melon esters. Grape and orange and lemon, with a soft acidic balance. Light sweetness moves to puckering mouthfeel that lingers. Light carbonation helps the balance. Refreshing, but a bit tart. Light earthy floral, touch of mold, citrus, raspberries, and a touch of light earthiness in the aftertaste. Lingering moderate sweetness and medium-high acid. Honey lingers into the finish.”
Overall: “Nice mead that reminds me of dry lemonade. The alcohol and slight mustiness are a bit detracting, but the acidity and the nice citrus is a good balance. Fruity, citrusy honey. With less tartness and smoother alcohol, this would be a stronger contender.”
