Lancashire Mead Company
Interview with Gordon Baron and Ann Farrell from Lancashire Mead Company
What inspired the founding of Lancashire Mead Company, and how has the journey evolved since then? As a Druid, I found that mead was integral to the gatherings and rituals I participated in, embodying our connection to the earth. But I found that most commercially available meads weren’t true meads in the traditional sense; they were often just white wine or a neutral spirit with honey added, lacking the authenticity he valued. Determined to create something purer, I decided to try making my own. I cleared out the supermarket’s honey shelf, added brewers’ yeast from a local shop, and mixed it with water. Surprisingly, the result was drinkable! From there, the batches grew as word spread among friends.
Introducing the Lancashire Mead Company, where ancient traditions meet modern craftsmanship, and every bottle tells a story of authenticity, sustainability, and passion. Founded by Gordon, a practicing Druid, this journey into mead-making began from a quest to create a true fermented honey drink, free from the artificial additives so common in today’s meads. Dissatisfied with commercial o erings, Gordon started experimenting with honey, water, and yeast, quickly capturing the interest of friends and the local community. His partner, Ann, joined the venture in 2012, helping to transform this hobby into a thriving business that’s now known for its dedication to natural ingredients, sustainability, and the art of mead. The Lancashire Mead Company doesn’t just produce Mead; it revives an ancient craft dating back to 6500 BC. Unlike larger producers, they stay true to traditional methods, using only raw honey and letting each batch ferment and mature at its own pace. The result? A range of unique, chemical-free meads with rich, natural flavours influenced by local ingredients and seasonality. This philosophy of respecting nature’s timing can be seen in their best-selling o erings, from the rich Viking’s Blood Mead to seasonal specialties like Krampus’ Spiced Mead, perfect for winter festivities. As mead regains popularity, Gordon and Ann remain committed to sustainability, partnering with local suppliers and adopting eco-conscious practices. Despite facing challenges from rising production costs and changing market landscapes, the Lancashire Mead Company continues to thrive by focusing on quality, tradition, and a sustainable approach to business. This interview delves into the art of mead-making and the couple’s mission to elevate this age-old beverage.
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