Metheglin is a mead made with the addition of spices or herbs.
The spices/herbs may be expressed in the aroma. Honey characters should appear in the aroma but will vary in intensity depending on the spices/herbs used. Metheglins containing more than one spice should have a good balance among the different spices/herbs, though some spices/herbs will tend to dominate the aroma profile.
Clarity may be good to brilliant. Carbonated examples will show active evidence of dissolved gas but no head is expected. Color may range from pale straw to deep amber; the color usually won’t be affected by spices or herbs.
The spices/herbs should be expressed in the flavor but the honey character is still the backbone of the mead and should appear in the flavor but will vary in intensity depending on the spices/herbs used.
The spices/herbs should be expressed in the flavor as a distinctive enhancement to the honey flavor, whether harmoniously or by contrast, and should achieve a pleasant balance when a blend of spices/herbs is used. Metheglins containing more than one spice should have a good balance among the different spices/herbs, though some spices/herbs will tend to dominate the flavor profile.
Smooth texture. Most will be wine-like, with the warming presence of alcohol and a sense of medium body. Sensations of a cloying or astringent character should be avoided; however, some spices or herbs may affect mouthfeel, particularly by adding astringency.
