Beech or Beechwood honeydew honey (Nothofagus fusca) from New Zealand

Both the Nothofagus fusca Red Beech and the Nothofagus solanri Black Beech are endemic to New Zealand and found in the South Island of New Zealand. The vast majority of New Zealand beechwood honeydew comes from these two species of Beech. The insect partners are actually Ultracoelostoma assimile and Ultracoelostoma brittini, both of which feed on the Nothofagus species. Beechwood honey has an malty, earthy flavor, intense odor and a rich amber color.

It is a thick, smooth honey with low sweetness and medium persistence that will stay liquid and not crystallize easily. It is good in savory sauces and with fresh cheeses such as ricotta, or drizzled over figs or served with plain yogurt.

Buckwheat flowers are very fragrant and are attractive to bees that use them to produce a special, strongly flavored, dark memorable honey. It can range in color from dark yellow to dark brown, with a slight reddish tinge. It has a sharp spicy aroma and taste with bitter tones. The scent of wood and clay is characteristic, with a powerful malty, molasses flavor. It is said to leave a tickle in the throat.

It can be used for cooking poultry, foie gras, pork or beef. Also in sauces and over ice cream. In desserts as a sugar replacement and especially with strong cheeses. Buckwheat honey is the key ingredient used to make gingerbread (spice-bread or pain d’épices) originating in Brittany, France, where buckwheat plays an important cultural role. Also from Brittany comes a style of mead (honey wine) called Chouchen made from Buckwheat honey and cider. It is also finding popularity with mead brewers in America who like the strong flavor and slightly nutty bitter taste.

Darker honeys are rich in antioxidants. Also rich in iron and minerals, this honey is renowned for its a restorative properties and toning. It has been shown to be more effective than dextromethorphan (DM) as an cough suppressant for children. A spoonful at night can relieve heartburn and calm the stomach. Study results for wound care are most promising, and indicate buckwheat honey to be an effective antimicrobial wound-healing product. Buckwheat honey has been shown to be effective in reducing oxidative stress, which can result in significant damage to cell structures. The major antioxidant properties in buckwheat honey derive from its phenolic constituents, which are present in relatively large amounts. Its phenolic compounds may also exert antibacterial activity.