Recently, we buzzed over to Honey Heist Mead Co., a charming and unique establishment nestled on Wing Hill Road in Cobden. We were warmly welcomed by Ms. Jackie Robbins, who co-owns the business with her husband, Josh, and her best friend, Michelle Pitts.

Jackie invited us into the tasting room, and we were immediately captivated by the space’s inviting and modern aesthetic. The atmosphere is both hip and welcoming, with the brand cleverly and beautifully woven throughout. From the logo behind the bar to the honeycomb patterns on the walls and the creatively named rooms, every detail offers a delightful surprise.

A native of Carbondale, Jackie served five years in the U.S. Marines—where she met Michelle—before graduating from SIU and embarking on a career in retail. During the COVID-19 shutdown, Jackie began experimenting with mead-making as a creative outlet. She and Josh discovered a shared passion for the craft, and what started as a hobby eventually blossomed into a full-fledged business. They chose Southern Illinois as the perfect home for Honey Heist—and we’re so glad they did!

Mead, in simple terms, is wine made from honey. The possibilities for flavor combinations are endless, and if you stop by for a tasting, the team is eager to share more about their process and products. Although we didn’t sample the mead during our visit, Jackie treated us to a variety of honey tastings. For many of our students, it was their first time trying honey—making it a fun and flavorful experience! Orange blossom, raspberry, and wildflower varieties were crowd favorites.

We are incredibly grateful to Jackie for sharing her time and story with us. We hope to meet Josh and Michelle on a future visit. Honey Heist Mead Co. is a truly special addition to our community, and we can’t wait to return!