Mieli Thun: Monofloral Honey from Trentino-Alto Adige Since 1921

An excellent example of terroir, monofloral honey offers a unique taste of place. For over a century, Mieli Thun has harvested nectar from local bees that pollinate nearby flowers. The resulting selection of honey captures the pure fragrance and flavor of the hills, forests and pastures of Italy.

The story of Mieli Thun

It begins in the summer of 1921, when impassioned beekeeper Andrea Paternoster started producing his own honey at home in Trentino-Alto Adige. He found that his bees, pollinating only flowers in the nearby Italian Alps, produced an exquisite honey. Andrea began experimenting with different flowers, and Mieli Thun was born.

Today Andrea's grandson leads the company. His team of nomadic beekeepers wanders the hillsides and fields of Italy, following the seasons of dozens of different flowers and seeking local colonies of bees.

Harmony with the bees

The key to the art is finding harmony with the bees, which is kinder to nature and better for the honey. Before each harvest season, Mieli Thun takes into account the climatic and geographical differences of the Italian peninsula, and the differences in the bees themselves.

The well-being of the bees is protected at every step. Mieli Thun does not allow local wildflowers to be treated with pesticides, and it harvests in a way that does not disrupt the bees' natural cycles. The honey is produced without pasteurization or additives, so it captures the scent and taste of each blossom.

Alpine Honey

At Eataly, we especially love Andrea's first variety. Mieli Thun's Alpine Honey has a distinctive amber color that is sometimes naturally darkened by honeydew. Produced in July and August, it has a clear aroma of Indian ink and cooked artichokes, with predominant notes of quinoa and rhubarb.

How to enjoy it

Like a good wine or olive oil, honey pairs with different flavors depending on the flower. Mieli Thun recommends Alpine Honey, which is less sweet than other varieties, with plain yogurt, fruit salads and smoothies. The other flavors suit herbal teas, sweet and savory baked goods, marinades and even medicinal purposes.