Dark honey?

[boozinsusan]

I want to make a spiced apple cyser. I have juiced some organic apples, and found a source for organic honey (friends of friends are beekeepers).


However, some of the honey I got is darker than normal(almost, but not quite the color of molasses). Will this affect the color of the cyser?

 

[vcasey]

What kind of honey is it and does it taste like? It may affect it a little but not very much. I used a dark wildflower honey in my strawberry banana mel and the same in my banana clove mel and both are a really nice color, about like a lighter version of the fruits color.
VC

 

[boozinsusan]

I don't know what kind of honey it is - thinking clover probably? That seems to be most common in this area. Could be with wildflowers too - not sure where the bees are kept.


I guess that since apples have some tendencies to turn brown (but have not - Isoaked them inlemon juice and water prior to juicing), and I don't want brown wine......just wondering if this honey will make that more possible.....

 

[vcasey]

None the meads & cysers I've made with dark, med, or light colored honey have finished brown because of the honey. Fresh honey & apples is going to make a very nice drink. I am looking forward to your progress.
VC

 

[boozinsusan]

Thanks, vcasey. That answers my question.


I am interested in tasting it too - and thinking of adding some ginger and cinnamon to the mix......


Thinking the long weekend will have me starting that and a Reisling kit.....

 

[vcasey]

Susan I have used this recipe http://www.brewboard.com/index.php?showtopic=80468 several times with apple and/or pears, it is truly fantastic. I remember Wade said he made something similar. My first batch is 2 years old and is simply wonderful and according to the folks in the original group brew it will get much better.
VC

FYI here is my thread http://forum.finevinewines.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=8265

 

[Brewgrrrl]

I wonder if the honey is buckwheat? If so, that will have more of an earthy flavor. There is a lot of information about honey at: www.ebeehoney.com


Very cool that you have a connection with beekeepers.

 

[Brewgrrrl]

(btw dark honey is said to have more antioxidants than lighter honey, so that would be good for cold/flu season)

 

[boozinsusan]

Well, then, I guess I should drinkLOTS of this wine to avoid H1N1, right?

Thanks brewgrrrl and vcasey - for all the info! I am getting excited to start.....

 

[boozinsusan]

Very cool that you have a connection with beekeepers.

All I have to do is share some wine!

 

[boozinsusan]

The darker honey seems to have no effect on the must. It is a lovely golden, peachy color. I am sure it will clear out to a beautiful color.


And I was so worried.......