Honey made by California bees. Spring water from Palomar Mountain. Mix one part of the former with four parts of the latter, and you have the light, sweet foundation of every mead at Golden Coast Mead. The finished gluten-free brews, which may also feature elements of ale yeast and hints of oak, have an alcohol content of 12% by volume.

The basic idea of these craft libations—a fermented honey drink—isn't new. In fact, mead has a long history, as it's considered one of civilization's oldest alcoholic beverages. Everyone from Ethiopian kings to Aristotle to Shakespeare drank mead. However, Golden Coast Mead puts a fresh spin on an ancient classic by sourcing the ingredients locally and serving its sweet, slightly fizzy creations not in ancient castles but in two hip California tasting rooms.