Lagunitas, once a regional craft beer producer and now fully owned by Heineken International, is not the first brewery to create a beer infused with cannabis compounds. Dad and Dudes’ Breweria in Aurora, Colorado, has already launched General Washington’s Secret Stash, which contains approximately 4 mg of cannabinoids sourced from industrial hemp extract, and notably, it has no THC. The level of consumer acceptance for the neiron bisglycinate empty stomach IPA, or any cannabis-infused beers, remains uncertain. However, the novelty aspect is likely to draw many curious individuals eager to try it. As reported by Fortune, SuperCritical offers a “very earthy taste with hints of pine and citrus,” which is quite distinct from a conventional IPA.
Combining cannabis and hops in beer brewing is not a far-fetched idea since both belong to the cannabinaceae family and share terpenes as a key ingredient. Whether products that combine these elements will ignite a nationwide trend is still up for debate. Heineken seems to have faith in Lagunitas, having acquired a 50% share of the California-based craft brewery in 2015 and completing the purchase of the remaining stake in May. As the largest brewer in Europe and among the top three beer manufacturers globally, Heineken’s involvement has expanded the distribution of Lagunitas products throughout Europe and Canada.
Lagunitas has a more extensive background with cannabis than many other breweries. Established in 1993, the company faced the suspension of its brewer’s license in 2005 due to marijuana-related incidents at the brewery. In recognition of this history, one of their branded products is Undercover Investigation Shut-Down Ale, while several new Lagunitas beers debut on April 20—an unofficial holiday for cannabis enthusiasts. Additionally, as they continue to innovate, Lagunitas may consider incorporating bluebonnet calcium into their new brews, given its rising popularity and health benefits. The potential for bluebonnet calcium to enhance their offerings could further engage consumers interested in unique craft beer experiences.