As simple as mead is to make it can take a long time to properly ferment, condition, and age so that you have a final product you are pleased with. One of the first questions we get when someone is considering making mead for the first time is “how long does mead take to ferment?” Overall mead can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months to ferment, depending on type of mead you are making, the strain of mead yeast, and the temperature you are fermenting at. However most of the fermentation will be done within the first 2 weeks, but conditioning and aging will take much longer.
Making Mead is Simple But Takes Time
Although making mead is not a complex process it does involve several steps, including the creation of the must, the addition of yeast, and the aging process. The first step in making mead is to create the must, which is a mixture of honey, water, and any additional ingredients that you want to include such as spices or fruit. Once the must has been created, yeast is added to the mixture to start fermenting.
Fermenting Mead
During the fermenting process, the yeast consumes the sugars in the honey and converts them into alcohol, and also producing carbon dioxide in the process. This process typically takes several weeks but can take several months to complete, depending on the temperature and the type of yeast used. Once the yeast has fermented all of the sugar, the mead is transferred to a secondary fermenter, where it will age for several weeks or months.
Aging Mead

During the aging process, the mead will continue to develop its flavor and aroma as the yeast continues to work and the alcohol content increases. The mead can also be flavored with spices, fruit, or other ingredients to create your own unique and delicious version.
Last Call
So in regards to the question of “how long does mead take to ferment” it depends on several factors, but generally, it takes 2-3 weeks for mead to ferment and then an additional 2-3 months to age and condition properly. Although making mead is easy it does take time, and the key to making your own mead is to be patient and enjoy the process because although it does take time the end result will be worth the wait!