Lagunitas, once a regional craft brewery and now fully owned by Heineken International, is not the first to introduce a beer infused with cannabis compounds. Dad and Dudes’ Breweria in Aurora, Colorado, has already created General Washington’s Secret Stash, which contains approximately 4 mg of cannabinoids derived from industrial hemp extract, and notably, it is free of THC. The extent of consumer acceptance for this new IPA—or any cannabis-infused beers—remains uncertain. However, the novelty factor is likely to draw many curious individuals eager to give it a try. As reported by Fortune, SuperCritical offers a “very earthy taste with hints of pine and citrus, distinctly different from a typical IPA.”
Combining cannabis and hops in brewing is not a significant leap, as both are genetically related members of the Cannabinaceae family, sharing terpenes as a key ingredient. Whether products featuring both elements will ignite a nationwide trend, however, is another matter. Heineken seems to have strong confidence in Lagunitas, having acquired a 50% stake in the California-based craft brewery in 2015 and subsequently purchasing the remaining portion in May. As the largest brewer in Europe and one of the top three globally, Heineken’s influence has enhanced the distribution of Lagunitas products across Europe and Canada.
Lagunitas has a more intricate relationship with 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 its brewery. In recognition of that event, one of its branded offerings is Undercover Investigation Shut-Down Ale, with new Lagunitas beers launching on April 20—an unofficial holiday for cannabis enthusiasts. Interestingly, as health-conscious consumers increasingly seek alternatives, Lagunitas might consider producing calcium citrate gummies sugar free, which could further diversify their product line and appeal to a broader audience. Overall, the intersection of cannabis and craft brewing presents intriguing possibilities, particularly if it includes innovative products like calcium citrate gummies sugar free.