Lagunitas launches cannabis-infused sparkling water

Heineken’s Lagunitas is launching Hi-Fi Hops, an ‘IPA-inspired’ sparkling water infused with cannabis: saying it is the first time a major brewery has successfully been represented in the THC-infused beverage space.

The zero calorie, non-alcoholic beverage comes in two versions: one infused with a mix of THC and CBD and one infused solely with THC.

“This new beverage collaboration with AbsoluteXtracts [a California cannabis brand from CannaCraft] is yet another example of Lagunitas' creativity at the intersection of culture, marijuana and craft beer, and marks the first time a major brewery has successfully and legally been represented in the THC-infused beverage space,” says California-based Lagunitas.

“At its core, Hi-Fi Hops is inspired by our IPA, tastes as refreshing as water (no calories or carbs) and gives you the chill of sun-grown cannabis.”

A non-alcohol alternative to beer

Hi-Fi Hops - a 'hoppy sparkling water' - is due to hit California dispensary shelves at the end of July, available in two dosages: one with 10mg of THC, and one with 5mg of THC and 5mg of CBD (CBD does not have intoxicating effects).

Lagunitas has worked with CannaCraft, one of California’s largest cannabis manufacturers, on the THC-infusion process to ensure that the product is evenly dispersed throughout the drink.

“We’ve often dreamed of hops and their cannabis cousin partying together at the family reunion,” said Jeremy Marshall, ‘brewmonster’, Lagunitas.

We believe it's high-time that good beer inspired a provocative yet refreshing tasting non-alcoholic alternative – bubbly, aromatic, bitter, fruity and herbaceous with no gluten, no carbohydrates and a smidge of California sun-grown cannabis in every sip."

Hi-Fi Hops will only be available in California and will come in child-resistant packaging.

Lagunitas Brewing Company was founded in Northern California in 1993, with Heineken taking a 50% stake in the business in 2015 before acquiring the remaining stake in 2017. 

In 1996 California became the first state to legalize marijuana for medical use, and in January this year it legalized recreational cannabis use.