Dansk Mjød Viking Blod (75cl, 19%)

A 19% ABV oak-aged metheglin-style mead from Denmark, blending wildflower honey with hibiscus, hops and ginger. Produced by Dansk Mjød on the outskirts of Billund in Jutland since 1994, it is fermented from wildflower honey, infused with hibiscus and ginger, then aged for six months in oak barrels with hops. The meadery develops its own proprietary brewing equipment, contributing to a production style it describes as totally unique. The result is a mead that borrows from both brewing and winemaking traditions. The aroma leads with wildflower honey, followed by tart hibiscus florals, subtle cherry-like fruitiness, faint hop presence and warm spice. The palate is rich and sweet with bold honey, balanced by tangy hibiscus, building ginger warmth and gentle hop bitterness. The finish is warming and moderately long, with hoppy dryness, lingering spice and residual honey sweetness beneath hibiscus tartness and subtle woody character.