How Arcane Alchemist Began: A Passion for Mead and Brewing History

Arcane Alchemist began not in a castle or a tavern, but in the stillness of the COVID-19 lockdowns. Like many, I (Sam) found myself spending more time online, and one day, I fell headfirst down a digital rabbit hole about mead, brewing, and honey wine traditions. What started as idle curiosity quickly became late-night research, recipe trials, and a growing fascination with this golden, historic drink.

In 2020, I brewed my first batch of mead—and that small act lit the spark that would eventually become Arcane Alchemist. What drew me in was more than just the drink itself; it was the story behind it—the roots in folklore and the sense of ritual surrounding mead-making.

Arcane Alchemist is the result of that journey. A meadery born from isolation, curiosity, and a desire to create something meaningful. I believe mead—the drink of kings, poets, and warriors—deserves a rightful place in modern glasses. And I'm proud to be part of its revival.

What is Mead? The Ancient Drink Making a Modern Comeback

For those new to mead, it's one of the world’s oldest alcoholic drinks made by fermenting honey with water and sometimes fruits, spices, or herbs. Mead has been brewed for thousands of years and holds a place in mythology all around the globe.

From the feasting halls of Anglo-Saxon kings to the verses of Celtic bards, from the Norse sagas of Viking raiders to the ritual offerings of Ethiopian tej ceremonies, mead has transcended borders and eras. It was more than a beverage—it was a symbol of celebration, power, and connection. In cultures as diverse as ancient China, Slavic Europe, and the highlands of East Africa, mead held sacred and ceremonial roles. Its revival today reflects a global yearning for authenticity, craftsmanship, and ingredients that are rooted in place; local, seasonal, and alive with story

At Arcane Alchemist, we embrace this rich heritage and use it as the foundation for every bottle we create.

ZESTY TWIST ON TRADITION

Infused with fresh limes and cooling mint, this mead is a bright, refreshing nod to its cocktail cousin. Light-bodied and crisp, it's the perfect summer sipper.

Wrath of the Reaper

Fire and Brimstone

Once a year, the boundary between our reality and another becomes dangerously thin, allowing the spirits and demons of the underworld to crawl into our plane of existence. All with a beating heart fear The Reaper.

KVASIR'S BLOOD

Kvasir, in Norse mythology, was a poet and the wisest of all men. Kvasir was born from the saliva of two rival groups of gods, the Aesir and Vanir, when they performed the ancient peace ritual of spitting into a vessel.

He traveled far and wide, teaching and spreading knowledge. Kvasir always gave the right answer to a question.