step feed pyment
This Step Feed Pyment Mead recipe walks you through how to make a high-ABV honey and grape fermentation using staggered honey additions. A pyment is a type of mead made with grapes; however, this version pushes the boundaries—raising the question: is it still a mead, or more like a honey wine?
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to make a step fed pyment, why step feeding increases alcohol content, and how this unique brew tastes after one full year of aging.
What Is s Step Feed Pyment?
Specifically, a step feed pyment is a mead made with grapes (pyment) where additional honey is added during fermentation instead of all at once. This technique:
- Increases potential alcohol (ABV)
- Reduces stress on yeast
- Helps create a smoother, more balanced final product
Pyment itself is a traditional style of mead that combines grape juice and honey, bridging the gap between wine and mead.
Ingredients:
96 oz (2.839 liters) Grape Juice
1/2 teaspoon Wine Tannin: https://amzn.to/3KtLn4E
1/2 teaspoon Fermaid O: https://amzn.to/4cw6sb4
1/2 packet Cote des Blancs yeast: https://amzn.to/3AzEahH
3/4 teaspoon Potassium Bicarbonate: https://amzn.to/3NcZKM8
Additions:
1/2 lb (0.226kg) Honey (to 1.022 Specific Gravity)
1/2 lb (0.226kg) Honey (to 1.018 Specific Gravity)
1/4 lb (0.113kg) Honey (to 1.010 Specific Gravity)
Back Sweeten with Honey to 1.008 Specific Gravity
1/4 teaspoon Wine Tannin
1/2 teaspoon Sparkolloid: https://amzn.to/4eSNJaA
2 oz (59.147 ml) Water (for the Sparkolloid)
Tools We Use:
Star San: https://amzn.to/3SXFoKg
Funnel: https://amzn.to/3TsvGzy
1 Gallon Carboy with Airlock: https://amzn.to/4aNnik9
pH Strips: https://amzn.to/3X18N7z
pipette: https://amzn.to/4cUiqed
Thumb Saver Bung: https://amzn.to/3MGmDHE
Graduated Cylinder: https://amzn.to/4dW26dD
Baster: https://amzn.to/3Az5psR
Hydrometer: https://amzn.to/3x8zsWY
Our Favorite Pitcher: https://amzn.to/4dFWNzh
Auto Siphon: https://amzn.to/4cz8VRr
Spaddle: https://amzn.to/4bM43IQ
Tasting Glasses: https://amzn.to/3KQBNJz
1 Gallon Wide Mouth Fermenter: https://amzn.to/4bLUDNw
Additionally, we use the Amazon Affiliate Program for these links and we DO receive a small commission if you purchase using our links and all this comes at no additional cost to you!
Step Feed Pyment After 1 Year
After aging for a full year, this step feed pyment mead developed deeper flavors and improved balance. Higher alcohol meads often benefit from extended aging, allowing harsh notes to mellow and the honey and grape character to integrate.
Watch the full tasting and review here:
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Step Feed Pyment FAQ
Is pyment a mead or wine?
Pyment is traditionally classified as a type of mead, since it contains honey; however, it also shares characteristics with wine due to the grape content.
What does step feeding do in mead?
Step feeding increases alcohol content while keeping yeast healthier during fermentation.
How strong is this step feed pyment?
Overall, this recipe reaches approximately 15% ABV due to staged honey additions.
