13 best mead yeasts
Mead yeasts are strains of yeast specifically used in the fermentation process of making mead, a type of alcoholic beverage made from fermented honey. These yeasts play a crucial role in converting the sugars in honey into alcohol and carbon dioxide. Here is some information about mead yeasts:
Role in Mead Making: Mead yeasts are responsible for the fermentation of mead. They consume the sugars present in honey and convert them into alcohol, creating the alcoholic content of the mead.
Variety of Strains: Similar to beer and wine making, there are various strains of yeast that can be used in mead production. The choice of yeast strain can significantly influence the flavor, aroma, and characteristics of the final mead.
Flavor Profile: Different yeast strains can produce various flavor profiles in mead. Some yeasts may emphasize the honey's floral and fruity notes, while others may bring out spicier or more earthy flavors. The choice of yeast can be a critical factor in achieving the desired taste.
Fermentation Characteristics: Mead yeasts vary in their fermentation characteristics, including fermentation speed and temperature tolerance. Some yeasts ferment more quickly, while others may be better suited for cooler or warmer fermentation temperatures.
Sulfite Tolerance: Mead yeasts also differ in their tolerance to sulfites, which are commonly used as a preservative in mead. Some strains are more sensitive to sulfites than others, and this can impact the mead's aging potential.
Commercial vs.Wild Yeasts: While some mead makers rely on naturally occurring wild yeasts for fermentation, many opt for commercial yeast strains that are specifically cultured for reliable and predictable fermentation.
Yeast Nutrients: In addition to yeast selection, providing the right nutrients for the yeast during fermentation is essential for a successful mead fermentation. Mead makers often use yeast nutrients to ensure a healthy fermentation process.
Hydration and Pitching: Properly hydrating and pitching (adding) the yeast into the mead must (the mixture of honey, water, and any additional ingredients) is crucial to kickstart the fermentation process.
Fermentation Monitoring: During the fermentation process, mead makers monitor factors like temperature, gravity (sugar content), and pH to ensure that the yeast is performing optimally.
Aging: After fermentation, mead may be aged to develop its flavors further. The choice of yeast and fermentation conditions can influence how the mead ages and matures.
Mead yeasts, like other brewing yeasts, offer a level of control and customization for mead makers. By selecting the right yeast strain and managing the fermentation process, they can craft meads with a wide range of flavors and characteristics, catering to their preferences and desired mead styles.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best mead yeasts on the market
North Mountain Supply - RS-PC-12 Red Star Premier Classique Wine Yeast - Pack of 12 - Fresh Yeast
North Mountain Supply
Product description
Guarantees a quick start of the fermentation. Good alcohol resistance (till 15% vol.), large temperature range (15°C to 35°C, 59°F to 95°F). Ideal strain for big volumes of wine when looking for a secure fermentation. Sold by North Mountain Supply (Seller: Quality Quick Ship) We are an Authorized Red Star Distributor and offer the freshest yeast on the market! We will provide free replacements and troubleshooting if for any reason the yeast does not activate before the expiration date.
- Sold by North Mountain Supply
- We are an Authorized Red Star Distributor and offer the freshest yeast on the market!
- We will provide free replacements and troubleshooting if for any reason the yeast does not activate before the expiration date
- Guarantees a quick start of the fermentation. Good alcohol resistance (till 15% vol.), large temperature range (15°C to 35°C, 59°F to 95°F)
- Ideal strain for big volumes of wine when looking for a secure fermentation.
User questions & answers
| Question: | is it certified kosher for passover |
| Answer: | I don't know if it was blessed by a Rabbi or if yeast even have a religious affiliation. Apparently, wine must not have been in contact with any grains, bread and dough i.e. chametz during its production to be considered kosher. |
| Question: | how much do you use |
| Answer: | The packets state that an entire one can be used for up to 5 gallons of solution depending upon what you are making. There are 5 grams of yeast in each packet so if you are making only one gallon of wine you need one gram or 1/5 of the package. Be sure to follow the directions stated on the packet in terms of prepping the yeast as well as storage and use thereafter of remaining yeast in the packet. I have done so and things worked quite well. A small digital scale or mini spoons are useful for measuring. Approximately 1/4 tsp of yeast is more than adequate for a gallon of wine. Having enough sugar and other necessary components for wine will yield ABV between 10-15%. Keep that in mind if you plan to make beer which I haven't. |
| Question: | How long is the fermentation process |
| Answer: | That all depends on what you are fermenting! If you use a hydrometer along the process you can measure how much sugar has turned into alcohol, which in turn shows when the yeast has completed its job! |
Lalvin ICV-D47 Wine Yeast, 5g - 10-Pack
Lalvin
Product description
The lalvin icv-d47 yeast strain is capable of producing complex wines with a strong fruity and floral character. This strain has been isolated from the côtes du Rhone region of France and is known for creating full-bodied chardonnay and other white varieties. This yeast can contribute additional complexity with extending aging on lees resulting in ripe, spicy aromas with Notes of Tropical and citrus fruits. The icv-d47 yeast ferments at a moderate pace and creates wines with a full mouth feel and silky texture.
- Produces complex wines with a strong, fruity and floral character
- Yeast strain isolated from France and known for creating full-bodied Chardonnay and other white wine varieties
- Can produce ripe, spicy aromas with notes of citrus and tropical fruit
- Creates a full mouthfeel and silky texture
- 10 Packs
User questions & answers
| Question: | The description say 10-pack but there is a 5-pack amazon 'sticker' over the picture. Is this 5 or 10 packs |
| Answer: | The listing is for 10 packs of yeast-Not sure why Amazon has a 5 pack sticker across the product. We will have them change the picture-but this listing is for 10 packs of yeast. |
| Question: | Does this have high alcohol tolerance |
| Answer: | Not as high as others, no. Lalvin has one called EC-1118 that has a higher tolerance than D-47. I prefer D-47 for mead as it's a good all around strain meaning that it turns out consistently good batches without having to constantly monitor it. I have been mead making for only two years and with everything, opinions vary. You can also check some of the home brewer forums. |
| Question: | how much do you use per gallon |
| Answer: | One whole packet is good for up to five gallons. About one teaspoon will be for one gallon. More won't hurt, it will just make it ferment faster. Personally I use 1/2 packet for anything under three gallons and a whole packet for anything over three gallons. Save the rest of the packet in the refrigerator. Happy Brewing! |
| Question: | Can I use this with red wine |
| Answer: | You could but D-47 is probably better with whites and blushes. Lalvin EC-1118 might be a better option for reds. I personally prefer mead to grape wine and use D-47 a lot with mead making and it turns out great. I have not had a bad batch and have done everything from a dry batch to sweet fruit flavored melomels like blueberry and raspberry. D-47 is a great all around choice for mead. |
Shepherd Made Mead Making Kit (Mead-Kit), Multicolored
Shepherd Made
Product description
Mead (Honey wine) will require you to add 4 lbs. Of Honey and water to the kit to make mead. Follow the directions and drink the oldest fermented beverage man made. The mead will be ready to drink in only 7 days but will improve in taste with age.
- Country Of Origin: China
- Model Number: Mead-Kit
- Item Product Dimension: 10.0" L x 10.0" W x 10.0" H
- Item Package Weight: 4.0 lb
User questions & answers
| Question: | Hello, what is the size of the hole in the cork? I am trying to make a blow off tube for it |
| Answer: | The hole in the stopper is 3/8" but I would recommend disassembling the airlock and using 1/2" ID tubing on the post inside. This has worked great for me. |
| Question: | How much honey to water do you need |
| Answer: | I used a gallon of distilled water, which I heated half of it up to 170(thermometer, not boiling) then added 3 pounds of honey stirred till mixed. Then I put it into the carboy and filled with remaining water to about 2 or 3 inches from top. |
| Question: | Does this come With directions? I did not receive any |
| Answer: | Yes it comes with a single page of instructions, inside the box. |
| Question: | How many grams of yeast comes with this |
| Answer: | The kit contains one packet of 5g. |
North Mountain Supply - RS-SP-5 Red Star Sampler Pack Wine Yeast - Pack of 5 - With Freshness Guarantee
North Mountain Supply
Product description
This assortment is great for experimenting with the different yeast strains. Includes 1 - Premier Blanc, 1 Premier Rouge, 1 Premier Classique, 1 Premier Cuvee, and 1 Cote des Blancs. Sold by North Mountain Supply (Seller: Quality Quick Ship) We are an Authorized Red Star Distributor and offer the freshest yeast on the market! We will provide free replacements and troubleshooting if for any reason the yeast does not activate before the expiration date.
- Sold by North Mountain Supply
- We are an Authorized Red Star Distributor and offer the freshest yeast on the market!
- We will provide free replacements and troubleshooting if for any reason the yeast does not activate before the expiration date
- This assortment is great for experimenting with the different yeast strains
- Includes 1 - Premier Blanc, 1 Premier Rouge, 1 Premier Classique, 1 Premier Cuvee, and 1 Cote des Blancs.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this yeast bloom like other yeast? After putting warm water in it never blooms. Tried 2 packs |
| Answer: | That's a great question. No, the yeast will not necessarily behave like that. It just needs to be re-hydrated and added to the wine. |
| Question: | So this may be the dumbest question ever, but can you use this yeast to make bread |
| Answer: | It's not a dumb question at all. For kicks, I made a loaf using the Premier Blanc a few months back just to see what would happen. I'm certainly not an expert baker, but I thought it was at least as good as the ones I have made using regular bread yeast. I've got extra packs, you've got me thinking maybe I'll try again to see if it's consistently good. |
| Question: | What abv will the yeasts get to |
| Answer: | That's a great question. The alcohol tolerance for these yeast range from 14% to 18%. |
Wyeast 4184 Sweet Mead
Northern Brewer
Product description
One of two strains for sweet mead making. Leaves 2-3% residual sugar in most meads. Rich, fruity profile complements fruit-mead fermentation. Use additional nutrients for mead making. Ciders, Cysers, Fruit Wines, Ginger Ale, Cherry, Raspberry, Peach. Temperature Range: 60-75 F. Alcohol Tolerance: 11%. NOTE: Mead can be very difficult to ferment. We highly recommend adding a yeast nutrient as well!
-
Leaves 2-3% residual sugar in most mead's. Rich, fruity profile complements fruit-mead fermentation.
User questions & answers
| Question: | How should it be store temp and all |
| Answer: | Store it in the fridge until a few hours before you plan on using, then break the smack pack after it comes to room temp and wait for it to swell the package tight. |
Strange Brew My-WNCV-DYMZ 10 Packs of KIV-1116 Lalvin Yeast for Winemaking, Multi
Strange Brew
Product description
A vigorous and competitive fermenter that, because of its neutral effect on varietal character, is very well suited to fruit wines as well as wines to be made from grapes. Grapes and fresh fruit. 59-86° F (15-30° C).
- 10 packs of fresh yeast
- Make wine at home
- Great with fresh fruit and grapes
- Fresh yeast from Strange Brew Home-Brew
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is this yeast all natural or is there another ingredient besides yeast? Thanks |
| Answer: | There is an emulsifier to assist with re-hydration, but it is mostly wine yeast. |
| Question: | Which yeast do you recommend for making rice wine |
| Answer: | For rice wine a lot of people recommend either the Lalvin V1116 dry yeast or White Labs WLP099 liquid yeast. |
| Question: | which yeast do you recommend for active dry yeast to make dandelion wine |
| Answer: | EC-1118 or champagne yeast would work best. |
| Question: | What is the difference between this and champagne yeast |
| Answer: | Thanks for asking. Champagne yeast produces wines with a very smooth, clean, crisp flavor whereas the K1-V1116 yeast produces more fruity and floral wines. |
Red Star Premier Blanc Wine Yeast, 5 g, (Pack of 11)
Red Star
Product description
11 packs Red Star Pasteur champagne yeast wine Cider making moonshine distilling. 11 packs Red Star premier blanc wine yeast 5 grams, country of origin - Belgium, manufacturer name - Red Star.
- 5 gram package
- Active dry wine yeast
- Recommended for cabernet, cider, dry whites, fruits, meads, port, and sodas
User questions & answers
| Question: | Can you use this yeast to make bread |
| Answer: | I accidentally purchased this, thinking it was yeast for bread. I just used it for cinnamon rolls and they turned out perfectly! The recipe called for 2.25 teaspoons of instant yeast, I let this sit in the warm milk at the temperature and time recommended on the pouch. Very happy with this, just ordered another set! |
| Question: | Will this work for strong ale |
| Answer: | That's a great question. If your ale is going to be in the typical alcohol range of strong ales (8-11%), then you should probably use one of the many ale yeasts that are suited for strong ales. If you are trying to achieve an alcohol content higher than that, then you could certainly use this champagne yeast for that purpose. If you exclusively used the Red Star yeast, it would be a remarkable different tasting beer. So you could ferment first with a strong ale yeast and then follow that with the wine yeast to preserve more 'ale' flavor. You could also experiment with fermenting with the 2 yeast simultaneously if they have a 'behave' well together. Thanks! |
| Question: | I usually use red star pasteur champagne yeast. is it still available |
| Answer: | That’s a very good question. The Red Star Pasteur Champagne yeast has been re-named to Red Star Premier Blanc. They are the same product. Thanks! |
| Question: | Do you need ID to have this shipped to you |
| Answer: | No, but your mom will catch you. |
Red Star Red Star Premier Blanc Champagne Yeast (Pack of 10)
Red Star
Product description
This product is Red Star Pasteur blanc champagne yeast which can be used for winemaking, cider making, mead making and other fermentation. A strong strain with a very high alcohol tolerance. Used to avoid sluggish fermentation and to restart stuck ones with remaining residual sugars. Recommended for sparkling wines processed by traditional or charmat methods.
User questions & answers
| Question: | I have this product myself, but how high of an alcohol tollerance does this yeast have |
| Answer: | i am getting over 15 with no nutrients added to tap water....with nutrients up to 20 should be attainable. |
| Question: | What bb date |
| Answer: | Thanks for asking. The stock that is in stock today (3/22/16) has a best-by date of December 2018. Thanks! - Olive Wood Brewing & Craft Co |
| Question: | Will this yeast do well in a banana wine |
| Answer: | As I understand it is a fast fermenting high alcohol content tolerant yeast. I used it because I was making 6 gallons of water melon wine and was afraid of it spoiling before the alcohol content got high enough to act as a preservative. Have never made banana wine but considering how quickly they ripen it may be a good choice but that's just a guess. My 6 gallons went from a SG of 1.110 to 1.008 in 4 days at about 67 degrees average temp. Hope this helps. |
| Question: | How much should I use to make a single gallon of mead? Will a fraction of a packet work |
| Answer: | I use my digital kitchen scale, the divide by 5. I then measure out the amount needed for the mead, and put the remaining in a small airtight container. I use a small jam jar with a lid and my Foodsaver attachment for reg size lids. I am not getting paid by Foodsaver, I use to preserve food, but it is worth it's weight in gold for being able to put my wine and beer additives into jars and protect from air contamination. Just FYI. If you don't have a digital scale, I'm sure Amazon sells them, and WallyWorld has one for $10. Before anyone even comments......yes I am slightly OCD,, |
Lalvin - UX-Y1XE-IDOI Wine Yeast 71B Yeast, 10 Packs, Multicolor
Lalvin
Product description
Contains 10 packs of yeast. No refrigeration needed for regular storage before use. Please keep product refrigerated if opened.
User questions & answers
| Question: | What's the current expiration on the packets being sold |
| Answer: | You will see the date on the package once you get the package. You WILL NOT be sold old yeast. That is not how these folks wok. |
| Question: | if wine stops working and its too sweet can more yeast get it working again? We started with 4gallon juice one gallon well water 10# sugar. help |
| Answer: | with that much sugar in the mix you are going to need champaign yeast and even then you're going to end up with cool aid that has @ 22% ABV. I like sweet desert wines but that much sugar will mask the fruit flavors. in the future max sugar per gallon should be 2 cups per gallon with the champaign yeast. it's better for most yeast to add only 1-1/2 to 1-3/4 cups per gallon. you need a hydrometer to be sure. if you want it sweet make the adjustment on the back side with juice concentrates. |
| Question: | What is the shelf life |
| Answer: | Thanks for your question. It is best to keep your yeast cool, and it will last for up to a year. |
| Question: | is this the same 71B |
| Answer: | The new name is 71B. It use to be called 71B-1122. Its the same yeast with a revised name. |
WLP720 White Labs Blush Wine/Sweet Mead Liquid Yeast
White Labs
Product description
A mead/cider/wine yeast strain that is less attenuative than WLP715, leaving some residual sweetness. Slightly fruity and will tolerate alcohol concentrations up to 15%. A good choice for sweet mead and cider, as well as Blush wines, Gewürztraminer, Sauternes, Riesling.
- Attenuation: <75%
- Flocculation: Low
- Optimum Ferment Temp: 70-75°F (21-24°C)
- Alcohol Tolerance: 15%
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this come chilled in a cool pack? This yeast is very sensitive to temperature fluctuations. It’s supposed to be kept cool until you use it |
| Answer: | It depends on the seller, but it’s not with the seller that I ordered from Amazon. I saw a couple online home brew stores do have option for shipping with cooling pack. |
| Question: | does this solution use any sodium as preservative |
| Answer: | no |
| Question: | How am i supposed to store this |
| Answer: | Hey! It should be stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. Prior to use, you should slowly bring it to room temp. Allowing it to sit on the counter for 3-5 hours is usually good. All of this is written on the package. Have fun! Bridgeview Beer and Wine Supply |
| Question: | A few questions. what's the alcohol tolerance of this? how much mead is this good for? and lastly, can it be re sealed |
| Answer: | Hello! Per White Labs, this yeast can tolerate alcohol concentrations of up to 15%. One vial is the recommended dose for up to 6 gallons. Once opened, there is a higher risk of contamination and therefore it is not recommended you try to store any unused yeast. However, it would be safe to divide the yeast between multiple batches on the same day. I'd also like to note that White Labs no longer packages this strain in a resealable vial, but instead a 'Pure Pitch' pouch. Hope this helps. Cheers! |
Lalvin Dried Wine Yeast EC #1118 (Pack of 10)
Strange Brew Beer and Winemaking
Product description
This product is Lalvin dried wine yeast EC 1118.
- Wine Yeast
- Dried Active Yeast
- Great for fermenting
User questions & answers
| Question: | what are the exact ingredients please |
| Answer: | here is a link to help you find the ingredientshttp://lmgtfy.com/?q=lalvin+yeast+ec-1118&l=1 |
| Question: | Lets say i add this to juice/sugar for hard cider. once fermented, i add potassium sorbate. is there anything else i'd need to do before drinking? ty |
| Answer: | I use it and a yeast nutrient, sugar and juice to make liquor. 160 proof liquor. Can't comment on potassium sorbate as I know nothing about it. Usually takes 7 days to ferment and another 12 hours to distill.........! |
| Question: | What yeast is best for both light and dark wines |
| Answer: | LALVIN EC-1118 (SACCHAROMYCES CAREVISIAE) (EX-BAYANUS) MAKES THE BEST LIGHT OR DARK WINES, with an alcohol content of 14-16% |
| Question: | Is this replication competent enough to keep a mead must running as long as it's regularly fed |
| Answer: | This yeast works with mead, have made mead with thisnyeast and many others. But Lavlin 71b-1122 seems to have been made for mead and some how my batches made with it get the best appraisals. if you decided to give 71b-1122 a try, make you mead as usual just add one cup (8oz) of pulpless orange juice to your mead. your mead wont pick up the oj taste (assuming a five gallon batch is being made) somehow something in the oj this makes lavling 71b-1122 happy. But ec-1118 works too |
Dry Wine Yeast - Premier Blanc Champagne (5 g) (Pack of 10)
Redstar
Product description
Good for ethanol and so2 tolerance. Begins fermentation quickly and is reliable at cooler fermentation temperatures. Neutral flavor profile. Recommended for dry white and red wines but actually not the first choice for champagne (Dyw10 is. ) alcohol tolerance to 17 percent and a fermentation range of 60 to 80 Degrees.
- Ferments 1-6 gallons
- Dry yeast
- Can be direct pitched; rehydration is recommended
- 5 grams
User questions & answers
| Question: | My yeast is not foaming when I mix it with sugar water. Is it still activated |
| Answer: | That's a great question. Wine yeast does not necessarily produce foam quickly after mixing. Depending on conditions, fermentation can take hours or days to begin. However, it is also not recommended to add sugar directly to yeast when rehydrating. It is a common mistake that results in problems since most people add too much sugar and cause shock to the yeast. Therefore, you should just follow the package directions for best results by rehydrating in water and then add directly to your juice. |
| Question: | Do you use one 5gr pack for 5-6gallons |
| Answer: | Thanks for asking. That is correct. |
| Question: | Does it ship chilled or room temp |
| Answer: | Always ship at room temperature |
Danstar Lallemand Nottingham Ale Yeast - 5 Packets
Danstar
Product description
If you are looking for amazing versatility from an ale yeast, look no further than Nottingham dry brewing yeast. Nottingham offers great performance with every batch, allowing brewers to cover a wide variety of beer styles with just one yeast Type. The Nottingham strain was selected for its highly flocculent and relatively full attenuation properties. It produces low concentrations of fruity and esters aromas and has been described as neutral for ale yeast, allowing the full Natural Flavor of malt and hops to develop. The recommended fermentation temperature range of this strain is 14 degree to 21 Degrees (57 Degrees to 70 Degrees F) with good tolerance to low fermentation temperatures (12 degree C/54 Degrees F) that allow this strain to be used in lager-style beer. With a relatively high alcohol tolerance, Nottingham is a great choice for creation of higher-alcohol specialty beers.
- Top fermenting yeast
- High attenuation
- Shows flocculation at completion of Fermentation, and settling is promoted by cooling and Use of fining agents and isinglass
User questions & answers
| Question: | good for ginger ale |
| Answer: | I have not tried making ginger ale with this yeast. If you are trying to make a non alcoholic soda this probably isn’t your best bet. But this is one of my favorite yeasts for hard cider making it adds a bit of an oatmeal flavor after fermenting so it may not be great for ginger ale but it is worth a shot. |
| Question: | What is Popular Edition? It's more expensive, but doesn't show why |
| Answer: | The Lable has recently been changed. It is still the same yeast |
| Question: | What original gravity (og) or brix are the cider makers using with this? looking for a medium/medium-dry result (not bone dry). thanks |
| Answer: | Hi, Nottingham yeast is viable up to 14% alcohol. It is a highly attenuative yeast so it will make a very dry cider unless you add sweetening |
| Question: | Is it one packet per gallon |
| Answer: | No. One packet for 5 gallons. So, 5 packets will make 25 gallons. |
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