London-based drinks brand BARHI is introducing the world’s first date-based mead to the UK pub sector, offering operators a new dry, sparkling and sessionable alternative that sits between beer and wine. Crafted from honey and fresh yellow Barhee dates and served at 6% ABV, BARHI is naturally gluten free, making it suitable for coeliacs and modern drinkers looking to explore something beyond traditional beer and cider. 

Unlike many traditional meads, which are often sweet and still, BARHI has been developed as a dry, lightly sparkling mead designed for easy drinking and social occasions. Best served chilled, the drink delivers a clean and refreshing profile and is available on tap and in bottles, making it well suited for modern pub environments.

The BARHI range currently includes two variants, both at 6% ABV:

• BARHI Original (Honey and Barhee Dates)
• BARHI Spiced (Honey and Barhee Dates, infused with star anise and orange peel)

BARHI Original recently gained international recognition after securing a Top 3 position in the professional dry session category at the Mead Madness Cup 2026, a global competition dedicated exclusively to mead.

Founder & Director Vikas Thakker explains that the goal behind BARHI was to reinterpret mead for the modern hospitality environment.

“BARHI was crafted to introduce a new dimension to pub drink menus designed for today’s evolving drinking audience.”

The brand is now introducing BARHI to pubs and hospitality venues across London and will be showcasing its sparkling mead to industry professionals attending the The Pub Show.

While BARHI is primarily positioned as a refreshing session drink, its dry profile also makes it a versatile option alongside flavour-rich cuisine.

Pub operators interested in learning more about BARHI can contact enquiries@vintagebrewery.co.uk.

More information can also be found at www.barhimeads.co.uk.