Rose petal wine and rose mead, also known as rhodomel, are two delightful beverages that harness the delicate essence of roses.
The fragrance of roses in June fills our yard, sparking an annual resolve to utilize these blooms in exceptional ways.
While we enjoy making rose cordial, the allure of creating something more mature led me to craft both rose wine and rose mead. These will mature in the cellar, ready to evoke summer memories during the chilly Vermont winters.
Rose Wine vs. Rose Mead: Rose wine is light and perfect for summer sipping, made vibrant with white sugar to retain its pink hue. Rose mead, enriched with honey, develops a darker tone and offers a complex flavor ideal for winter enjoyment.
Crafting Rose Wine: Creating rose wine involves similar steps to making other country wines but includes distinct choices in flavorings and additives. For instance, lemon juice provides the necessary acidity, while cardamom adds a hint of warm spice. Unlike other floral wines, I use white grape juice in rose wine to enhance its body and mouth feel.
Making Rose Mead: Rose mead, on the other hand, relies solely on honey for its richness and body, omitting grape juice. This honey wine takes longer to mature, offering a robust flavor that’s deeply satisfying during the colder months.
Ingredients and Process: Both beverages start with fresh or dried rose petals, creating a fragrant base. The process involves simmering these petals, then mixing them with either sugar or honey and adding yeast for fermentation. Key differences include the use of grape juice in rose wine and the exclusive use of honey in rose mead.
Fermentation and Maturation: Rose wine ferments relatively quickly and can be enjoyed after a few months, making it a refreshing summer treat. Rose mead requires a longer fermentation period, allowing its complex flavors to develop fully, making it well-suited for sipping by a winter fire.
Culinary Uses and Pairings: These rose-infused beverages can be paired with various dishes or enjoyed on their own. They complement light summer salads, and seafood dishes, or can be savored as an aperitif.
Whether you choose the refreshing zest of rose wine or the rich depth of rose mead, each offers a unique way to enjoy the natural beauty and flavor of roses in your glass.
