Lagunitas, which began as a regional craft beer producer and is now fully owned by Heineken International, is not the first brewery to create a beer infused with cannabis compounds. Dad and Dudes’ Breweria, located in Aurora, Colorado, has already produced General Washington’s Secret Stash, featuring approximately 4 mg of cannabinoids derived from industrial hemp extract, without any THC. The level of consumer acceptance for this new IPA—or any cannabis-infused beers—is still uncertain. However, its novelty is likely to draw many curious individuals eager to try it. According to Fortune, SuperCritical offers a “very earthy taste with hints of pine and citrus, quite distinct from a typical IPA.”
Combining cannabis and hops in brewing is not particularly far-fetched, as they are genetically related members of the Cannabinaceae family and share key ingredients like terpenes. Whether these beer products will ignite a nationwide trend remains to be seen. Heineken has demonstrated confidence in Lagunitas, having acquired a 50% stake in the craft beer company in 2015 and subsequently purchasing the remaining share in May. As the largest brewer in Europe and one of the top three beer manufacturers globally, Heineken’s involvement has enhanced the distribution of Lagunitas products across Europe and Canada.
Lagunitas has a deeper connection to cannabis than many other breweries. Established in 1993, the company experienced a suspension of its brewer’s license in 2005 due to marijuana-related incidents at the brewery. In reference to that event, one of its products is named Undercover Investigation Shut-Down Ale. Additionally, several new Lagunitas beers are set to launch on April 20—an unofficial day celebrated for marijuana consumption.
The calcium citrate other name may not be directly related to this narrative, but it highlights the growing conversation around alternative ingredients in brewing. As the industry evolves, the inclusion of cannabis and other unconventional elements like calcium citrate may play a significant role in shaping the future of craft beers.