Review: Hive Mind Mead

There’s a new buzz in the drinks aisle at Marks & Spencer, and it’s not just the bees.

Hive Mind, the South Wales-based collective of beekeepers and brewers, has officially launched its sparkling meads into M&S, and I couldn’t be more intrigued. Is this ancient drink finally getting the modern spotlight it deserves?

Mead is one of the world’s oldest tipples – honey, water, yeast, and time – a drink enjoyed by Vikings, medieval royals, and now, thanks to Hive Mind, by a new generation of food and drink lovers searching for something refreshing, different, and sustainable.

Hive Mind has already built a reputation for its award-winning traditional meads in Michelin-starred restaurants, but this latest launch is aimed firmly at the Millennials.

Think canned, sparkling meads at a lighter 3.4% ABV, pushing themselves into the perfect middle ground between cider and spritz.

The range launching in M&S is a trio of British flavours: Pure Honey, Rhubarb, and Elderflower. All are carbon neutrally packaged in 330ml cans, perfect for picnics, BBQs, or an easy at-home pour when wine feels too heavy over the winter period.

The flavours are undeniably sweet (it is honey, after all).

Pure Honey is clean and floral, Rhubarb brings a tart edge, and Elderflower offers that quintessentially English freshness.

What I really admire is Hive Mind’s integrity. Unlike mass-produced meads that cut corners with wine bases, added spirits, or refined sugars, Hive Mind sticks to the authentic method: honey, water, yeast, and patience.

It’s not just about taste, it’s about ethos. Every can champions British honey, supports our beekeepers, and helps protect vital pollinator populations. For a drink that feels indulgent, it’s really nice to know it’s also planet-positive.

And if you’re not in the mood for alcohol?

Hive Mind has also branched into Honeyades – a 4-strong range of all-natural soft drinks in Just Honey, Strawberry & Basil, Lime & Mint, and Rhubarb & Ginger. They’re sweet, yes, but a refreshing alternative to overly sugary pop and sodas, with a natural finish that feels just right for everyday drinking.

I think Hive Mind is doing something rather special. Mead has long felt like a historical curiosity, but Hive Mind is putting it firmly back in the conversation, and on the shelves of one of Britain’s most trusted food halls.

These sparkling meads are playful, innovative, and proudly British.

If you’re a fan of sweet, refreshing drinks and want to support the bees while enjoying something different, head to your local M&S and pop a few cans in your basket. Or you can buy directly from Hive Mind on their website.

Hive Mind are giving mead the renaissance it truly deserves, and I, for one, am raising a glass (or a can) to their success.

Hive Mind Sparkling Meads are available now at Marks & Spencer.

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About the Author

Ellen Pope is Editor of Chatting Food and a self-confessed foodie with a soft spot for a great cocktail and anything served with too much cheese. When she’s not hunting down the latest restaurant opening or sipping her way through new drinks launches, you’ll find her plotting her next foodie adventure and cheering on the brilliant chefs, makers and brands shaking up the scene.

Follow her on Instagram @ellenpope

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