Ask IWG: The Definition of Mead

 

Oscar Monters from Austin asks the following: what is the legal definition of mead and its related labeling laws?

Great question. Mead (also called honey wine) is an alcoholic beverage that is produced by fermenting a solution of honey and water. It may also be produced by fermenting a solution of water and honey with grain mash; the mash is strained off immediately after fermentation.

Although called a 'honey wine', since it is not made from fruit or vegetables, it is legally classified as a beer by the TTB, just as sake is a beer.

Sincerely,

Claude Robbins

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