By Cassady Quintana
Open since August of 2023, Orlando’s first meadery, Zymarium Meadery, has caught attention worldwide as one of the best meaderies in the world. Never heard of Zymarium or even mead? Let’s dive into one of history’s oldest alcohols.
What is mead?
Mead, often referred to as the "nectar of the gods," has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Originating in ancient cultures, this fermented beverage is crafted from honey, water, and various fruits, spices, or herbs. Its roots can be traced to regions like Scandinavia, where it was a symbol of celebration and prestige. Today, mead continues to enjoy a renaissance, captivating modern enthusiasts who appreciate its historical roots and the artistry involved in its creation.
The Owners and Atmosphere
Ginger Leigh emerges as the visionary force behind the captivating brand identity of Zymarium. Leveraging her exceptional talents and distinctive vision, Ginger played a pivotal role in crafting the entire brand experience, from conceptualization to execution. She meticulously developed every aspect, including the name, logo, label designs, glassware, apparel, and more. The result is a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing brand that seamlessly extends from the tasting room to the merchandise.
Alongside Ginger is Joe Leigh, “the Mead,” who began making his own mead in 2014. What started as a side hobby quickly became an obsession, racking up awards from the American Mead Makers Association (AMMA) in 2018.
The interior is a stunning fusion of modern design and elegance, adorned predominantly in sleek black with gold accents. The choice of an all-black aesthetic imparts a sense of sophistication, creating a visual backdrop for customers to enjoy their mead experience. The combination of modernity, black aesthetics, and gold highlights sets Zymarium Meadery apart from other restaurants and bars in the area.
The Meads
At Zymarium Meadery, the menu showcases a diverse array of meads, each carefully crafted to deliver a distinctive taste experience. From traditional honey meads to innovative blends incorporating fruits, spices, and exotic flavors, the selection caters to a broad spectrum of palates. Whether you're a connoisseur seeking the nuanced complexities of aged meads or a newcomer eager to explore this ancient drink, Zymarium Meadery provides a tasting journey that transcends time.
What We Ordered
“Every Mead is Unique”
Never had mead before? This is the perfect place to start. Experience just how different every mead can be! From dry to rich, pure to hoppy, still or sparkling!
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Miel de Miel (dry)
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Mango Lassi (off-dry) - they were out of this so we got the Florida Lychee
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Gallberry Blossom (semi-sweet)
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Cassia (semi-sweet)
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Endless Blueberry (sweet)
While it was our first time giving mead a try, we will most definitely be back. Mead resembles wine, champagne, and beer, bringing in all of the textures and flavors people love most from each!
Overall
Spearheaded by the visionary Ginger Leigh and mead master Joe Leigh, Zymarium stands as a testament to their creative genius, as they have built Orlando’s first meadery from the ground up and proven their skillset. This mead haven nestled in Mills 50 district not only celebrates the timeless art of mead-making but also invites customers to indulge in the fusion of history and contemporary charm.
Mills 50
Situated in the vibrant Mills 50 district of Orlando, Zymarium Meadery becomes part of a cultural melting pot known for its eclectic blend of art, cuisine, and diverse communities. Mills 50 is a hub for creativity and diversity, offering a range of dining options, art galleries, and unique shops. Some of our favorites that we've visited include Zaru for some noodles and Japaense delights, Hawkers for some Asian street food, or Piggza for some modern Italish-ish dishes.
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