Mead-Brewing Questions

[Solaris]

This is true, but also remember that urine was sometimes used to correct a pH imbalance. Just because it can be done doesn't mean it should.

Just because it was done in the past doesn't mean it shouldn't, either.
... Not the urine thing. We have better ways to mess with pH.

If you're going to be aging for several years, then sure - sterilizing is useful. Otherwise, you're wasting time with overkill and risking possibly contaminating with bleach or soap flavor.

Hmmm...how does menthol (NOT to be confused with methanol) or other mint flavors react to the brewing process? I've always wanted to make something that tastes like the winter wind.

Menthol's an antiseptic. I'd add it in after fermentation's done.