Mead, often referred to as honey wine or the “nectar of the gods,” stands as humanity's most ancient fermented beverage, predating even beer and grape wine. Historical evidence, notably from Northern Chinese pottery shards, traces its origins back to 7000-6500 B.C., underscoring its universal appeal throughout history. As Superstition Meadery Co-Founder Jeff Herbert aptly states, “no matter who you are and no matter what your background is, your ancestors were drinking mead.” Its historical footprint spans across diverse cultures, from the ancient traditions of Ethiopia to the Celtic peoples, and its legacy continues to thrive globally, including in contemporary America. Modern meaderies are now innovating upon this venerable honey-based ferment, introducing sophisticated twists and complex profiles, transforming this ancient drink into something truly remarkable for today's discerning palate.

Highlighting the pinnacle of this craft, Untappd's platform features a curated list of the highest-rated traditional meads, showcasing the diverse and evolving landscape of the beverage. Among these esteemed selections, Pips Meadery from Gurnee, IL, consistently emerges as a leading force, securing multiple spots with their highly acclaimed creations such as 'Prestige – Wildflower (ASP4R),' which boasts aging in Four Roses bourbon barrels, 'Prestige – Meadowfoam (ASPHBB)' and '46+2 (R&D)' aged in unique whiskey barrels, and the intensely complex 'Triple Barrel Prestige' that undergoes a three-year maturation in a trio of distinct barrels. Another standout, Schramm's Mead from Ferndale, MI, founded by renowned mead expert Ken Schramm, garners recognition for 'Sunflowers' and 'Heather,' demonstrating an unparalleled mastery of honey varietals and fermentation. Further expanding the list of excellence are Standard Meadery's 'Barrel-Aged Traditions: Meadowfoam Blackberry Blossom' and Boiler Brewing Co.'s 'Meadowfoam Mead,' both celebrated for their inventive use of ingredients and barrel-aging, alongside B. Nektar Meadery's 'Miel de Garde,' lauded for its smooth texture resulting from eighteen months in oak barrels. These selections, chosen based on Untappd's weighted average ratings from numerous enthusiasts, exemplify the rich tradition and innovative spirit defining today's mead scene.

The journey through these top-rated meads reveals a vibrant industry deeply rooted in history yet constantly pushing the boundaries of flavor and technique. Each mead on this list, with its unique blend of honey, aging processes, and occasionally surprising additions, tells a story of craftsmanship and dedication. The enthusiasm from the Untappd community, often expressing newfound appreciation for mead after tasting these exceptional examples, underscores the power of innovation rooted in tradition. This continuous evolution and widespread appreciation of mead highlight a positive trend where heritage meets modernity, resulting in beverages that offer complex sensory experiences and foster a deeper connection to historical practices. As the world rediscovers this ancient elixir, the creativity and passion of mead makers serve as a testament to the enduring appeal and versatile nature of honey, turning a simple ingredient into a sophisticated and celebrated drink enjoyed across generations and cultures.