Crafted Artisan Mangolorian

Mangolorian is a mead from Crafted Artisan, and the name points to mango as the fruit in the bottle. The label details we have don't give an ABV, a honey source or a sweetness level, so treat the following as what a fruit-forward mead like this usually delivers. Expect honey's floral, slightly waxy sweetness as the base, with ripe mango layered over it: stone-fruit and tropical notes, a soft, round texture, and a finish that depends on how dry or sweet this particular bottling is. Serve it chilled, around 6 to 10°C (43 to 50°F). A couple of hours in the fridge is enough. Cold keeps the honey from feeling heavy and brings out the fruit. Skip the ice if you're drinking it neat, since dilution flattens the aroma. A white wine glass or a small tulip works best, because the narrowing rim holds the mango and honey aromatics where you can smell them. A flute suits it if you want to treat it like an aperitif. In mixed drinks, mango mead can stand in for part of the sweetener and fruit in a few simple builds. Top about 90 ml (3 oz) with soda or dry sparkling wine and a squeeze of lime for a light spritz. Or shake 60 ml (2 oz) with fresh lime juice and a measure of white rum or tequila for a short sour. The acidity matters, because lime or lemon keeps the honey and fruit from getting cloying. For food, look to dishes where heat or salt can balance the sweetness: Thai or Indian curries, jerk chicken, fish tacos with a fruit salsa, or grilled shrimp. It also works alongside soft, tangy cheeses such as goat cheese or fresh chèvre, or after a meal with a plain sponge cake or coconut-based dessert.