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Revision as of 13:45, 14 October 2007
Varietal honey is honey created by bees which have primarily visited only a single honey source.
About Varietal Honey
The flavor of honey is affected by the flowers the bees visit during the production process. Traditionally this would have resulted in different flavors of honey being produced in different locations and at different times of the year.
Modern apiculturists have created so-called varietal or single varietal honey, by placing bees in empty comb hives in areas where there is a single significant pollen source, such as when bees are used to pollinate a specific cultivated crop. Despite the claims of many producers, no honey is really derived entirely from a single pollen source, but a dominant pollen source can significantly affect the flavor and aroma of the honey.
The chart below lists some varietal honey styles which can be used in making mead, with some description of the flavor characteristics of each one.
Variety Chart
Varietal | Av. pH | Description |
---|---|---|
Alfalfa | 3.8 | Delicately flavored honey; good for table use; a neutral mead base. |
Basswood | Fresh taste with green fruit character; lingering flavor | |
Chestnut | One of the most strongly flavored varietal honeys; sharp and bitter, with a pollen flavor. | |
Clover | Mild, floral flavor. | |
Orange blossom | Sweet, fruity, citrusy flavor. | |
Tulip Poplar | Dark color and a distinctive molasses-like flavor. | |
White sage | Rich, sweet, clover-like flavor with a floral aftertaste. |