Sun Bride: Crafting Magic with Calendula in Celebration of the Summer Solstice
Making mead is an ancient art form, and creating one with a specific theme or purpose can add a layer of meaning to the experience. One such mead I recently made is called Sun Bride, which was crafted to celebrate the Summer Solstice.
Sun Bride is a delightful blend of honey, pear, lemon & orange zest and juice, calendula flowers, and orange pekoe black tea. The name "Sun Bride" is a nod to the calendula flowers contained within the mead, also known as "sun-bride," due to their vibrant golden color and their association with the sun. Calendula is visually reminiscent of the sun and celebrated for its warm and dry qualities, much like a bright summer day. The inclusion of calendula flowers in Sun Bride adds a layer of significance, symbolizing the sun's energy and the spirit of the Summer Solstice.
The flavor profile of Sun Bride is a harmonious fusion of the sweetness from the honey and pear, the refreshing citrus notes from the lemon and orange, and the subtle tannins from the black tea. The addition of calendula flowers lends a delicate floral essence, adding depth and complexity to the brew. The resulting mead is a symphony of flavors that evoke the vibrant spirit of summer.
In terms of color, Sun Bride exhibits a beautiful golden hue, reminiscent of the sun-kissed fields during midsummer. Its aroma is equally captivating, with hints of honeyed pear, citrus zest, and a subtle floral bouquet that elevates the senses.
Crafting Sun Bride was a labor of love, and the process of infusing each ingredient with intention and reverence for the Summer Solstice added a sense of magic to the brew. As I raise a glass of Sun Bride to toast the sun's zenith, I am reminded of the abundance and joy that the season brings.
Sun Bride is not just a mead, but a celebration in a bottle, capturing the essence of a summer day and infusing it with the spirit of festivity. It is a reminder to savor the warmth, light, and vibrancy of the season, one sip at a time.
