Schramms - Black Agnes (b1-b6 vertical)

Black Agnes is a black currant mead by Schramm's Mead.  If you are unfamiliar with this mead then you should find a bottle and drink it asap.  As of January 2017 there have been 6 batches of Black Agnes released.  All in the same 375mL bottles, all at 14% ABV.  The release dates, prices, and release methods have been all over the place over the years because of variations like batch size and the explosion of this mead's popularity as of late.  In general these meads are released at Schramms tap room to-go for around $30-34.  There have been instances where a small amount has also gone into regular distribution around the Detroit area.

Disclaimer: I'm a big fan of Black Agnes (BA) since I first tasted it a few years ago back in 2013 (b1).  More on why I love it so much in a minute.

First let's start by saying I was fortunate enough to be able to open all six batches side by side.  It was quiet the sensory experience, and an educational one at that.

L to R: Batch 1 - 6

Before I get into my thoughts on individual batches I'd like to start with my overarching general thoughts on Black Agnes.  It is one of my favorite meads because of its big, bold flavors done ever so perfectly in balance. The Black Currants lend this in your face, bold berry flavor; tart, tannic, and juicy.  But it's nicely balanced with a honey and berry juice sweetness.  If you're unfamiliar with currants the closest thing I can draw a comparison to is that BA is like a big red dessert wine.  Almost like a hybrid port/cab/merlot.  Aside from the taste, this mead is very opaque and stains the glass a deep red.  There's some alcohol legs but the big bold flavors mask any booziness.  It's an extremely drinkable liquid for such a massively flavorful mead.  Everything about this mead is bursting at the seams; yet beautifully balanced and artfully made.

Now that we got that out of the way let's get down to why you're really here.  What did I think of the batches side-by-side?!?  To preface: all 6 batches were very well made, very tasty beverages. But tasting side by side you can really pick out the subtle differences.  Differences in age, recipe, storage conditions, etc. I'm sure all played a role.

In order of preference is as follows: B1>B4>B2>B5>B6>B3

Batch 1 was the winner for me, although Batch 4 was close behind.  B1 was sublime, which I attribute to the age as it was the oldest at almost 3 years old.  A big melomel like BA in theory should age beautifully for year and Batch 1 BA is a great testament to that.

Batch 4 was close behind Batch 1.  Ever since it's release (I think early 2016) I've always thought this was a phenomenal mead.  Whatever was done in the production of batch 4 is absolutely spot on.

After that the batches were all very similar with a slight edge given to B2, which I would attribute to just having more of an opportunity to ages a little longer than B5 or B6. (B2 was released 2014 and B5 and B6 released in Mid-2016).  The only anomaly was Batch 3.  I found it interesting that this batch was last at it had something not quite as fantastic as the other batches.  Again, it wasn't anything but world-class, but there was something not as magical with it.  The flavors were a little more muted.  I'm not sure if age didn't treat this one as well or if there was a difference in that year's black currant or honey crop.

All in all this was a very educational experience and really highlights how much of an agricultural product mead is.  More so than beer.  Mead is so simple; water, honey, and maybe some fruits/spices. The ingredients play the utmost importance in a well crafted mead.  I highly suggest challenging your senses by doing these fun tasting exercises.  You'll learn a lot, and walk away with a better appreciation for the liquid in your glass.


If anyone else has done anything fun or exciting, or would just like to share their opinion; leave a comment below.