Walking into the Three Hands Mead Company, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. My previous experience with mead was limited to a couple of tastings at local festivals, which always left me intrigued but never quite knowledgeable. However, my visit to this charming little meadery not only expanded my palate but also enriched my understanding of what mead can be.
What Exactly is Mead?
Mead, often dubbed as the ancestor of all fermented drinks, predates both wine and beer. It’s made from fermented honey, and just like wine and beer, the variations and flavors that can be achieved seem endless. At Three Hands, mead isn’t just treated as a novelty from the past; it’s crafted with a passion that aims to put it squarely in the modern day.
A Warm Welcome from the Owners
Owned and operated by Jamie and Cody, a dynamic husband and wife team, Three Hands Mead Company offers an experience that’s as personal as it is delightful. Whether it’s Jamie greeting you as your seated or Cody manning the bar area, their passion and knowledge are infectious. You feel immediately welcomed, not just as a customer but as a part of their journey. It’s no wonder the place is filled with regulars, greeted by name, adding to the familial atmosphere that makes Three Hands so special.
The Ambiance: Feels Like Home
The atmosphere at Three Hands can best be described as ‘cozily communal’. On my visit, I witnessed a customer giving one of the owners a Christmas gift, a testament to the personal connections they foster with their patrons. The meadery is designed to be more than just a place to drink; it’s a place to interact, play games like tic tac toe right on your table, and enjoy the company of others. The community vibe is palpable, making it a local favorite.
Tasting the Stars
Three Hands doesn’t just make mead; they elevate it to an art form. Their mead menu is a testament to their creativity and commitment to quality. Each mead I tried had its own character and story. Here are a few standouts:
- You Down With OBT? Mead – Traditional: This was a perfect starting point, smooth and sweet, showcasing the rich flavors that quality honey can produce.
- Clermont Cooler Mead – Melomel: Fruity and refreshing, it was like summer in a glass, bursting with fresh berry flavors.
- S.O.B. Mead – Metheglin: Infused with spices, this one offered a warming sensation, perfect for a chilly evening.
- Roadster Full of Raspberries Mead – Melomel: Just as the name suggests, this was packed with raspberry flavor, tart yet sweet.
- Mead Me Downtown And Let’s Go Krazy!: This one was a crowd-pleaser, fun and whimsically named, with a complexity that invited sip after sip.
And not to be overlooked, the Lope’s Pink Lemonade Cider – Dry offered a crisp and tart alternative, balancing the sweetness of the meads beautifully.
A Must-Visit for Mead Enthusiasts and Novices Alike
Whether you’re a seasoned mead lover or curious about trying something new, Three Hands Mead Company is a destination worth making the trip for. Not only will you enjoy delicious drinks, but you’ll also be treated to warm hospitality that’ll make you want to return. Jamie and Cody have created a special place that combines the age-old art of mead-making with a modern twist that’s both innovative and inviting.
So, if you ever find yourself in Plant City, Florida, looking for a unique tasting experience, don’t miss out on Three Hands Mead Company. It’s more than just a drink; it’s a dive into history with a modern twist, all served up by two of the most passionate and welcoming mead-makers you’ll ever meet. And who knows? You might just find yourself becoming a regular, too.
