Dive into the history and tasting notes of the M&S x Vocation American Pale Ale, from its Hebden Bridge roots to its pine-and-tropical fruit aroma, plus my 3.5/5 verdict.
History of the M&S x Vocation American Pale Ale
In May 2021, Marks & Spencer relaunched its own-label craft beer range in partnership with Real Drinks, featuring six new brews from three UK breweries – including Hebden Bridge’s own Vocation Brewery. The collaboration saw Vocation craft an American Pale Ale (5.3% ABV) exclusively for M&S, designed to deliver bold flavour and modern packaging in 330 ml cans at £1.90 each . This partnership underscores M&S’s commitment to bringing high-quality, independent craft beers to a wider audience, leveraging Vocation’s reputation for “bold and flavourful beers” brewed from their Yorkshire hilltop.
The Pour
When you open the M&S American Pale Ale (Vocation), you’ll notice an inviting amber-gold hue with a thick, slightly off-white head that lingers for several minutes. The moderate carbonation creates fine streams of bubbles, carrying hop oils to the surface and promising an aromatic experience. Poured into a tulip glass, it exhibits medium clarity with a subtle haze—typical of modern American-style pales—and leaves a delicate lace as you sip
Taste & Aroma
- Aroma: The nose is fruity and resinous, bursting with pine needles, tropical fruit, and a hint of blueberry from the dry-hop blend. There’s also a light, biscuity malt undertone that balances the hops
- Flavor: On the palate, it starts soft and approachable, then builds to a clean, generous bitterness. Expect citrus zest, grapefruit pith, and subtle stone fruit notes, all framed by a crisp malt backbone that keeps the finish refreshing rather than cloying
- Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied with moderate carbonation, it feels smooth and drinkable—ideal for sessionable drinking without sacrificing hop character.
Verdict: 3.5 / 5
Overall, the M&S x Vocation American Pale Ale delivers on its promise of bold, approachable flavours. While the hop profile is well-balanced and the bitterness clean, it lacks a bit of the depth and complexity I look for in top-tier APAs. The tropical and pine notes shine, but the malt backbone could be more pronounced to give it extra dimension.
- Pros:
- Well-balanced hop bitterness
- Inviting pine and tropical fruit aromas
- Smooth, sessionable mouthfeel
- Cons:
- Slightly thin malt character
- Lacks the lingering finish of more robust APAs
Final Score: 3.5 out of 5
Whether you’re an IPA enthusiast or simply curious about UK-retailer collaborations, give this American Pale Ale by Vocation Brewery a try—best enjoyed chilled with good company.
Leave a Reply