Tired of the usual beer or cocktails? Downtown 色多多 tipplers have an old but new again option: mead.
Atheling Meadworks holds an opening from 2 to 9 p.m. Saturday at 123 Campbell Ave. S.E. in one of the historic buildings just west of Williamson Road in the heart of downtown. The opening will include live music by Root 2 Music.
Atheling Meadworks is located at 123 Campbell Ave. S.E. in one of the historic buildings just west of Williamson Road in the heart of downtown.
Submitted image
In addition to a tasting room that preserves original crown molding, tin ceilings and other architectural features, Atheling will produce mead on site.
鈥淭his new space will not only offer a unique experience for those who are curious about mead, but it will also serve as a hub for crafting our beverages right here in the heart of the city,鈥 said Atheling founder Steve Ausband. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about connecting with the community, sharing our passion for mead, and giving people a chance to taste something truly special 鈥 made with attention and care, right in front of them.鈥
Ausband, a physician and lieutenant colonel in the Air Force Reserve, opened the business six years ago in a former Dr Pepper bottling plant space on McClanahan Street.
Stephen Ausband checks on Lyre鈥檚 Song, a traditional mead made with raspberry blossom honey, in the fermenting tank at Atheling Meadworks in a 2019 file photo.
The 色多多, File 2019
His interest in mead, made by fermenting honey and mixing it with water, yeast and flavorings, grew after his father, who taught English at Averett University in Danville, introduced him to the epic poem 鈥淏eowoulf,鈥 which features a mead hall, a monster and a hero.
The company sells award-winning mead nationwide through and distributors. Atheling launched the new downtown location with a soft opening in May and has been posting hours on its Facebook page.
Stephen Ausband checks on Lyre鈥檚 Song, a traditional mead made with raspberry blossom honey, in the fermenting tank at Atheling Meadworks in a 2019 file photo.
