Shady Grove Sparkling Dry Mead

Bottle. Pours a very pale hue, almost clear, with light effervescence and high legs. The nose is floral with hints of honey sweetness, alcohol, and some woody notes. The flavor is tart up front and rather floral. The middle is a bit vinous, with a decent honey quality. The finish, though, is weird to me. It reminds me way too much of this wintergreen-scented rubbing alcohol I have. It might not be so offputting if I didn’t make that association, but it’s a bit strange. Ok mead, but not outstanding.

Bottle, sampled with Tronraner and co. Effervescent, very light pour. The aroma is thin with suggestions of honey comb. This has a light, spritzy mouthfeel with an even, though thin, distribution of honey over the palate. The finish reminds me of sarsaparilla. This is a tasteful drink, but not big enough to sate a true mead craving.