Mead, the honey-based drink of the Vikings, is alive and well in Norway today. While beer dominates the taps, a blossoming mead culture is bringing mjød back to life, connecting travelers with a taste of Norse tradition. From Bergen’s pioneering Mjøderiet to Viking festivals across the country, visitors can sip the same drink once poured in longhouses and feasts.
A Viking Legacy in a Glass
Mead, known as mjød in Old Norse, was the drink of choice at Viking feasts and rituals. Made from honey, water, and herbs, it symbolized prosperity and divine inspiration. Odin himself was said to steal the Mead of Poetry, making it a drink tied to myth and magic. Today, travelers can rediscover this ancient beverage in Norway’s craft scene.
Where to Taste Mead
The heart of modern Norwegian mead culture is Mjøderiet in Bergen, the country’s first dedicated meadery. Founded by enthusiasts from the homebrew community, it offers innovative flavors alongside traditional recipes. Visitors can sample mead infused with berries, spices, or even coffee, all while learning about its Viking roots. Specialty shops and bars in Oslo, Trondheim, and Stavanger also stock Norwegian mead, making it accessible across the country.
Festivals and Heritage
Mead is more than a drink—it is part of living heritage. Viking reenactments and festivals, such as those held in Avaldsnes and Gudvangen, often feature mead tastings alongside storytelling and crafts. Travelers can raise a horn of mjød while listening to sagas, experiencing the atmosphere of a Viking feast brought to life.
A Blossoming Culture
Though beer dominates Norway’s brewing industry, mead is blossoming as a niche craft. It appeals to those seeking authenticity, history, and unique flavors. For tourists, tasting mead is not just about drinking—it is about connecting with the Viking spirit, where honey and myth blend into a timeless tradition.
Travel Highlights
- Visit Mjøderiet in Bergen for Norway’s most innovative mead.
- Explore Viking festivals in Avaldsnes and Gudvangen with mead tastings.
- Seek out specialty shops in Oslo and Trondheim stocking craft mjød.
- Pair mead with local food for a true Norse-inspired culinary experience.
A Taste of Myth
For travelers, mead offers more than refreshment—it is a sip of history. Whether enjoyed in a modern bar or at a Viking reenactment, mjød connects you to Norway’s mythic past and its blossoming craft future. Raise a horn, toast to the gods, and let Norway’s mead culture inspire your journey.
