Medovukha

Medovukha is a traditional Slavic alcoholic beverage made from honey. While similar to mead, it is quicker and more economical to produce. The name "medovukha" derives from the Proto-Indo-European word "médʰu" meaning honey.

This drink has been savored in Eastern Europe since ancient times and was especially popular until the 19th century. The Slavic people were pioneers in wild honey farming and among the first to recognize that honey could be fermented. Initially, the fermentation process took years, making Medovukha a luxury item reserved for the nobility.

However, the Slavs discovered that heating the honey mixture could expedite fermentation. This innovation made Medovukha more affordable and accessible to the general populace in the territory of Rus'.

In the 14th century, the advancement of distillation techniques resulted in an early version of the modern Medovukha we are familiar with today. Despite its early popularity, by the 17th century, Medovukha began to decline in favor of the rising popularity of vodka.