How long is too long in Primary?

[ChocolateBrewer]

I’ve had 5 gallons of Joe’s ancient orange mead in that’s been fermenting for about a year and eight months. Is there any danger in drinking? There were oranges added that have been in there the whole time. Besides Camden tablets about two months ago, nothing has been added.

 

[lumpher]

No, there should be no danger in drinking it, especially if you kept the airlock wet. Take a sip of it, and if it tastes good (and I bet it will), enjoy it. In the picture it looks totally fine.

 

[HVCBrewing]

Mead is a sturdy beverage. IMO if it smells clean (vs industrial, sour, or dirty sox), I would rack it let is rest for 60 days and give it another assessment. It is true that mead doesn't need much in the way of sulfite, Given the time on fruit, I would add 25 ppm (1/8tsp) when you rack the mead.