Midnight Meadows from Hex Meadery is a luxurious melomel with 14% ABV, created by blending orange blossom and meadowfoam honey with dark berries such as blackberry, black currant, and black raspberry. This combination delivers a strong, almost liqueur-like character, where the rich sweetness of the fruit dominates yet remains balanced with the complex notes of honey.
The mead is further aged in maple bourbon barrels, adding warm tones of caramel, smoke, and subtle woody nuances that deepen the overall profile. On the nose, it reveals aromas of dark berries, vanilla, and hints of spiced wood, while the palate unfolds in layered transitions from fruity acidity to rich sweetness and a warm finish.
The texture is full and velvety, with deep ruby hues reminiscent of the finest dessert wines. Midnight Meadows is conceived as a drink for special occasions, pairing beautifully with chocolate desserts, aged cheeses, or enjoyed on its own as a contemplative indulgence.
Producer
Hex Meadery from Kaukauna, Wisconsin, represents a modern approach to the ancient tradition of mead, combining honey with fruit, spices, and innovative techniques to create diverse styles and flavor profiles. Their portfolio ranges from classic meads, pure and focused on the aroma of honey, to melomels enriched with fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, or peaches, as well as metheglins with the addition of vanilla, cinnamon, and other spices.
Particularly notable are the series aged in barrels, which develop complexity and depth of flavor, resulting in a longer and more elegant finish. With an average alcohol content of around 12-14%, their drinks balance between liqueur-like richness and refreshing fruity vibrancy.
The taproom in Kaukauna has become a central gathering place for craft mead enthusiasts and a space where visitors can explore the full breadth of styles. The visual identity of their drinks reflects the aromatic richness: from golden tones of traditional meads to deep ruby and dark purple hues of fruit-forward varieties.
Beyond the drinks, their focus is also on educating the public, as they aim to expand understanding of mead as a beverage that can be just as layered and relevant as wine or craft beer. This blend of creativity, local identity, and artisanal dedication makes Hex Meadery a brand well worth attention in the world of gourmet beverages.