Born in the heart of West Yorkshire, the Life & Death IPA from Vocation Brewery embodies the spirit of contemporary speciality brewing. An American IPA at 6.5% ABV, it combines aromatic intensity with excellent structure, presented in a style that is both bold and impeccably refined. Behind its pale appearance unfolds a flavour landscape where the signature hops Citra and Mosaic summon sunny citrus and juicy tropical fruits, while a precise malt frame ensures balance and a pleasant mouthfeel. A true brewery signature, this flagship release is aimed at those seeking an expressive, modern and controlled IPA capable of brightening an aperitif, pairing with boldly seasoned dishes or opening up possibilities around a summer barbecue. It stands out for its clear aromatic intensity, clean and precise bitterness, and a calm, lingering finish that invites both tasting and sharing. A speciality beer with a British breath, designed to enhance the moment and express a certain way of life.

Blending and brewing

The Life & Death IPA is built on a carefully selected barley malt base that brings roundness and structure, before being intensely hopped with Citra and Mosaic, major references in the American hop register. Citra delivers bright citrus notes, zest of lemon and pink grapefruit, while Mosaic unfolds a tropical palette, evoking pineapple and mango with a subtly resinous touch. The brewing aims for generous aromatic expression, supported by a clean bitterness of around 38 IBU, typical of a balanced American IPA. Lightly filtered to preserve the richness of the bouquet, the beer retains a lively texture and remarkably lasting freshness. Together they compose a characterful IPA, accessible in its aromatic clarity, demanding in its precision, and unusually elegant for its category.

Tasting notes

• Appearance: Golden blond with a luminous sheen, delicately hazy, topped by a fine, stable white head that leaves an elegant lace on the glass.
• Nose: Pronounced aromas of tropical fruit and citrus, between pineapple, mango and grapefruit, lifted by a resinous note reminiscent of pine. The malt base adds a discreet biscuit character that keeps the beer balanced.
• Palate: Immediate aromatic attack led by waves of pineapple and citrus zest, before a poised, clean and precise bitterness. The malt rounds the profile, and the finish stretches long, dry and refreshing, with a returning lemony note.

Serving temperature and tips

Serve this IPA between 6 and 8°C to highlight the hop character while preserving the freshness of the profile. A tulip glass or an IPA glass will showcase the bouquet, channel aromas toward the nose and sustain a persistent foam collar. Allow a few moments of aeration in the glass—the aromatic palette then gains depth and definition. This speciality beer rewards a mindful tasting, but also lends itself to convivial large gatherings thanks to its drinkability and clean finish.

Food and beer pairings

• Aperitifs: lemony hummus, fish rillettes, artisan olive-oil chips.
• Starters: white fish ceviche, citrus baby-leaf salad, sea bream tartare.
• Mains: grilled poultry, cheddar burgers, fish tacos, marinated and grilled salmon.
• Cheeses: creamy soft cheeses, young tommes, mild cheddar that plays with the bitterness.
• Finish: lightly sweet citrus desserts, thin lemon tart to prolong the freshness.

Occasions

The Life & Death IPA is the ideal companion:

• For a bold aperitif when you want an expressive, refined beer.
• At a barbecue to cut through the generosity of grilled meats and marinades.
• During a spur-of-the-moment meal where beer and food pairing is driven by citrus liveliness and the firmness of bitterness.
• As a gourmet gift to introduce someone to a benchmark IPA that is both approachable and distinguished.

Characteristics

• Name: Vocation Brewery, Life & Death IPA 33 cl
• Type: Speciality beers
• Style: American IPA
• Alcohol: 6.5%
• IBU: around 38
• Hops: Citra, Mosaic
• Brewery: Vocation Brewery, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
• Origin: England
• Volume: 33 cl
• Serving: 6 to 8°C
• Award: Great Taste Awards, 3 stars
• Reference: CAV-BIERE-VOCATION-LIFE-DEATH-33