WILLIAMSBURG — The Virginia Mead Guild has announced the launch of the Virginia Mead Trail, a journey through the Commonwealth’s meaderies offering enthusiasts and newcomers the opportunity to explore and savor the diverse styles of locally crafted mead.
Mead, often referred to as “honey wine,” is the world’s oldest alcoholic beverage, and is experiencing a modern resurgence, particularly in Virginia, according to the guild. Imbibers and makers say mead combines the elegance of wine with the creativity of craft beer, it added.
“We are thrilled to introduce the Virginia Mead Trail,” said Glenn Lavender, owner of Williamsburg’s Silver Hand Meadery and founding member of the Virginia Mead Guild. “This initiative not only celebrates the exceptional quality of meads produced in our state but also supports local agriculture and tourism. We invite everyone to explore the trail and rediscover and reimagine mead here in the Commonwealth.”
Mead is crafted by fermenting honey with water and various fruits, spices, grains, or hops, and showcases a vast spectrum of flavors, from dry to sweet, still to sparkling. Virginia’s meaderies blend time-honored traditions with innovative techniques, producing meads that reflect the state’s rich agricultural heritage, the guild said.
The Virginia Mead Trail highlights all of the state’s meaderies and breweries that regularly feature meads on tap, each offering unique tasting experiences and insights into the art of mead-making, according to the guild. Participants can enjoy guided tastings, tours, and special events that highlight the craftsmanship and passion behind each bottle.
The launch of the trail was supported with grant funding from the Virginia Tourism Corporation and capitalizes on “Virginia is For Mead Lovers” campaign branding. A dedicated website, brochure and curated trail map help educate and guide consumers along their mead journey.
Virginia has developed a reputation as a national leader in mead production, the guild said. In 2023, the American Mead Makers Association hosted its MeadCon East industry conference in Roanoke.
“This is the first cohesive marketing effort ever for the Virginia Mead industry,” said Lavender. “We look forward to incorporating more trail programs and events in the coming months that highlight this incredible industry.”
To plan your journey along the Virginia Mead Trail and learn more about participating meaderies, visit virginiameadtrail.com.
