Locals are sweet on the world’s oldest alcohol

Often referred to as “the nectar of the gods”, mead has enchanted civilizations for millennia. Here in Vernon, a Viking-inspired mead has been causing a buzz since the first batch.

Ode to Odin is produced by Honeymoon Meadery located at a popular local landmark, Planet Bee.

Just like ancient meads, this drink begins with the bees. Raw honey harvested from hives at the Planet Bee honey farm makes Ode to Odin an Okanagan original. Aging in whiskey barrels for six months is the finishing step.

Hand-crafted in small batches, Ode to Odin always sells out quickly. Along with being a popular gift, it’s also a great option for gatherings. The bottle’s back label tells the story of how this mead was made, and is a conversation starter before you even pop the cork.

But it’s inside the bottle that really counts, and mead is a natural for commemorating life’s sweetest moments – after all, people have been toasting with it for centuries.

Presented and served like wine, tasting notes describe Ode to Odin as: “Pale gold in colour, the nose offers an abundance of oak and walnuts. On the palate, a generous mouthfeel layers your mouth in creamy, nutty richness with lingering notes of hazelnut and honey.”

An ancient way to enjoy the flavours, goodness, and diversity of honey, mead hasn’t lost a beat. Honeymoon Meadery has a full series of meads with tempting names like Apricot Elixir, Oak & Honey Rapture, and Winter Spice.

And they don’t just sound good. Experience their flavours for yourself at the tasting bar at Planet Bee. They’re open daily, and walk-ins are welcome. Want to share some with friends or family who aren’t here in Vernon? Honeymoon Mead can be shipped across Canada, and shipping is free to BC and Alberta.