Maryland Meadworks and Denizens Brewing Co. have teamed up to make a modern version of a medieval brew.

The Hyattsville meadery and Riverdale Park brewery have worked together to create Shell Bee Braggot Lager.

Braggot is a Celtic mead-beer hybrid that can be traced back to the 12th century that balances the bitterness of hops with the sweetness of honey. It’s even mentioned in “The Canterbury Tales,” where it’s called “bragget.”

The collaboration is made with pilsner malt, Orange Blossom honey and Nelson Sauvin hops, leading to a deep golden mead with flavors of honeysuckle, light-roasted caramel and marzipan, with notes of white grape and gooseberry.

“As a braggot bridges the gap between mead and beer, Shell Bee connects the small neighborhoods off of Baltimore Ave. with a blend of brewing practices from Hyattsville and Riverdale Park as well as a nod to the Terps in College Park and the honey bees of the world,” noted Denizens in an announcement.

The lager, which has 8.6 percent ABV, is available starting today on draft or in cans at both Maryland Meadworks and Denizens taprooms.

Support the Wire and Community Journalism
Make a one-time donation or become a regular supporter here.