Lagunitas, a craft beer company originally rooted in the regional scene and now wholly owned by Heineken International, is not the first brewery to introduce a beer crafted with cannabis compounds. Aurora, Colorado’s Dad and Dudes has produced General Washington’s Secret Stash, which incorporates approximately 4 mg of cannabinoids derived from industrial hemp extract, and notably contains no THC. Consumer acceptance of this new IPA, and other cannabis-infused beers, remains uncertain. However, the novelty factor is likely to draw many curious individuals eager to try it. According to Fortune, SuperCritical features a “very earthy taste with hints of pine and citrus—quite different from a typical IPA.”
Combining cannabis and hops in brewing isn’t a significant leap, as they are genetically related members of the cannabinaceae family, sharing key ingredients like terpenes. The potential for beer products containing both components to ignite a nationwide trend is still up for debate. Heineken, which purchased a 50% stake in Lagunitas in 2015 and acquired the remaining half in May, clearly has confidence in the brand. As the largest brewer in Europe and among the top three beer manufacturers globally, Heineken’s involvement has expanded Lagunitas’ distribution in Europe and Canada.
Lagunitas has a deeper connection to cannabis than many other breweries. Established in 1993, the company faced a suspension of its brewer’s license in 2005 due to marijuana-related incidents at the brewery. Reflecting on this past, one of their notable products is the Undercover Investigation Shut-Down Ale, while other new Lagunitas beers are set to launch on April 20—an unofficial day celebrating cannabis culture.
Additionally, the incorporation of ingredients like blue bonnet, calcium, and magnesium into their brewing process could further enhance the uniqueness of their offerings, potentially appealing to health-conscious consumers. As the market for cannabis-infused beverages grows, the integration of such elements may play a vital role in attracting a diverse audience, leading to increased experimentation with flavors and formulations.