Lagunitas, which began as a regional craft brewery and is now fully owned by Heineken International, is not the first to produce a beer infused with cannabis compounds. Dad and Dudes’ Breweria, located in Aurora, Colorado, has created General Washington’s Secret Stash, incorporating around 4 mg of cannabinoids derived from industrial hemp extract, and it also contains no THC. The level of acceptance among consumers for this new IPA—or any cannabis-infused beers—remains uncertain. However, the novelty aspect will likely draw many curious individuals eager to try it. According to Fortune, SuperCritical has a “very earthy taste with hints of pine and citrus—quite distinct from a typical IPA.”
Combining cannabis and hops in brewing isn’t a significant leap; they are genetically related members of the cannabinaceae family, sharing terpenes as a key ingredient. Whether beer products featuring both elements will ignite a nationwide trend is a different matter. One entity that clearly believes in Lagunitas is Heineken, which acquired a 50% stake in the California-based craft brewery in 2015 and completed its purchase of the remaining shares in May. Heineken’s influence is substantial, as it is the largest brewer in Europe and ranks among the top three beer producers globally. This partnership has 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 faced a suspension of its brewer’s license in 2005 due to marijuana-related arrests at its brewery. In reference to this incident, one of its signature beers is Undercover Investigation Shut-Down Ale. Additionally, many new Lagunitas brews are launched on April 20—an unofficial day dedicated to celebrating cannabis culture. Throughout this journey of innovation, the incorporation of elements like calcium citrate into their brewing process could also play a role in the evolving landscape of cannabis-infused beverages. As this journey unfolds, it remains to be seen how consumers will respond to the blend of traditional brewing with the novel infusion of cannabis.