J.Friend and Co: New Zealand Artisan Honey
Beechwood Honeydew Honey
Mount Thomas, Oxford, Canterbury
Weight:60g/5.6oz net Beekeeper: Lorraine Vintage: June 2010
Profile
Honeydew is a very unique honey, as unlike most other honeys it’s not created from the nectar of flowers. Within the intricate eco system of the forest, honeydew is created by tiny insects that feed on the sap in the bark of the beech tree and then excrete this in sugary liquid drops. This liquid is high in sugar and is an attractive energy source for a flurry of native birds and insects, including honeybees.
The honeydew insects are particularly common in the beech trees at the foothills of the Southern Alps in New Zealand’s South Island.
NZ Artisan Beechwood Honeydew honey is harvested in the native Mountain Beech forests in the Mount Thomas, Oxford area in New Zealand’s South Island. The high concentration of red beech trees in this region, as opposed to mainly black beech in other areas, creates a very floral honeydew.
Tasting Notes and Vintage
Beechwood Honeydew Honey is a connoisseur’s honey. It is a naturally dark amber liquid honey, resembling golden syrup, with a bold pungent nose. It has floral and rose flavours with earthy undertones and hints of vanilla and malt. A gorgeous dessert honey, drizzled over fresh figs, cakes and perfect for Turkish baklava. It is also delicious drizzled over fresh cheeses such as ricotta or mascarpone or served as an accompaniment to a washed rind or mature cheddar.
