Rekindling Tradition: Mulled Mead for Matariki
As winter settles in and the stars of Matariki rise once more in the night sky, many across Aotearoa pause to reflect, gather, and celebrate new beginnings. It’s a time of remembrance, of connection — and of warmth.
At Undisturbed, we’ve been reflecting on what it means to mark this time in a way that feels rooted, intentional, and uniquely ours. And so this year, we’re bringing an ancient tradition into the glow of a southern midwinter: mulled mead.
A Winter Ritual, Reimagined
Across many cultures, the dark months have always been met with warmth — not just from fire, but from spiced, aromatic drinks shared around it. In medieval Europe, mead was often served hot, infused with herbs or spices. It was a celebratory drink, a comfort, a medicine of sorts.
Here in Aotearoa, Matariki is our winter constellation, our marker of the Māori New Year. It’s a time to honour those who’ve passed, share food with whānau, and look ahead. We see mulled mead not as an imported custom, but as an invitation to bring warmth and reflection together - in a glass, under the stars.
What’s in Our Matariki Mead
We start with our Mānuka honey mead, rich and earthy, with bold notes that hold their own against heat and spice. To this, we add:
Cinnamon, star anise & clove - classic mulling spices with warming depth
Dehydrated orange - for brightness and bitter-sweet citrus
A slow heat - to infuse, not boil; just enough to let the aromas bloom
These are available in our mulling spice pack. It’s simple, grounding, and easy to share - just 500ml warmed for 15 minutes will serve four mugs around the fire.
Serve It Your Way
Whether you're hosting a hākari, cooking with whānau, or simply watching the stars rise, mulled mead adds a quiet sense of occasion. Pour it into sake-style cups, ceramic mugs, or even a thermos for a bush walk. However you serve it, sip slowly - and let the flavours carry you.
Available This Matariki
We’ll have small-batch bottles available to take home from the Matariki Mākete in Christchurch, 19-21 June at the Arts Centre - and we’ll be serving it hot, by the cup, too. Come try it, warm your hands, and we’ll share a story or two.
