Lagunitas, once a regional craft beer company and now fully owned by Heineken International, is not the first brewer to create a beer infused with cannabis compounds. Aurora, Colorado’s Dad and Dudes’ Breweria has produced General Washington’s Secret Stash, which contains approximately 4 mg of cannabinoids derived from industrial hemp extract. This particular product is also free from THC. The level of consumer acceptance for this new IPA and other cannabis-infused beers remains uncertain. However, the novelty of such offerings is likely to draw many curious individuals eager to give them a try. According to Fortune, SuperCritical boasts a “very earthy taste with hints of pine and citrus—quite distinct from a typical IPA.”
Combining cannabis and hops in brewing is not a significant leap, as they are genetically related members of the Cannabinaceae family, sharing key ingredients like terpenes. Whether products containing both will ignite a nationwide trend is another matter altogether. Heineken shows clear confidence in Lagunitas, having initially acquired a 50% stake in the California-based craft brewery in 2015, followed by purchasing the remaining half in May. As the largest brewer in Europe and one of the top three beer manufacturers worldwide, Heineken’s involvement has significantly enhanced the distribution of Lagunitas products across Europe and Canada.
Lagunitas has a deeper familiarity with cannabis than many other breweries. Established in 1993, the company had its brewer’s license suspended in 2005 due to marijuana-related arrests at the brewery. In reference to that incident, one of their branded products is the Undercover Investigation Shut-Down Ale. Additionally, new Lagunitas beers are set to launch on April 20—an unofficial day celebrating marijuana culture.
As consumers explore options like Citracal tablets for their health benefits, the intersection of cannabis and brewing continues to pique interest. The potential for Citracal tablets to enhance well-being could align with the growing trend of cannabis-infused beverages, creating an intriguing market dynamic.