Sips & Anticipations: My Cannabis Beverage Journey

Author

Lars Miller
September 08, 2023

Sips & Anticipations: My Cannabis Beverage Journey

In today's rapidly evolving cannabis industry, beverages are making a significant impact, offering consumers a unique way to experience the benefits of cannabis. According to the BDS Analytics and Arcview Market Research, the cannabis beverage market is expected to surpass $1.4 billion in the U.S. by 2025. With this growth, brands are innovating, and consumers are exploring new ways to incorporate cannabis into their daily routines. In this edition of Herbal Profiles, I'm sharing my personal journey through this burgeoning market. From the beverages I've sipped and savored to the ones I'm eagerly awaiting to try, let's embark on this flavorful journey together!

About the Company: Wynk offers a seltzer with a unique blend of THC and CBD. With a perfectly balanced 1:1 ratio of THC:CBD, Wynk promises a light, bubbly buzz that's enjoyable any night of the week.

  • Cost: $24.99 per 6 pack

  • Taste: Each flavor is slightly different having Black Cherry, Lime Twist, and Juicy Mango as their core flavor offerings. These are perfectly encapsulated in each can. Wynk tastes exactly like an amazing sparkling water. Each one I have tried has been very carbonated and the flavors not overly powerful. If you are a fan of sparkling waters then you will definitely love Wynk.

  • Effect: Wynk’s are all 2.5mg per can. The effects are very mild but you do start to feel the effects after about 15 minutes or so. Very subtle onset and more calming (though not sleepy) than anything else. I feel like these are perfect for an patio evening or even hanging out by the pool.

  • Flavors Available: Black Cherry Fizz, Lime Twist, Juicy Mango.

About the Company: Cann is a pioneer in the cannabis-infused beverage industry, offering a range of social tonics that blend THC and CBD.

  • Cost: $24.95 per 6 apck

  • Taste: I think they absolutely nail the complexity of the flavors they are offering. These are less carbonated than some others in the seltzer category but still delicious.

  • Effect: Cann's classic beverages contain 2mg of THC and 4mg of CBD, offering a relaxing yet sociable buzz. While lower in THC these still offer a good buzz. Also, more calming than anything else. But they do not make you sleepy. This tends to be my evening relaxation beverage.

  • Flavors Available: Grapefruit Rosemary, Blood Orange Cardamom, Lemon Lavender.

About the Company: Brez offers a next-generation social tonic that promises a euphoric, calming, and inspiring experience.

  • Cost: $40 per 6 pack

  • Taste: The flavor is more bold than some others I have tried. Much more herbaceous and the elderflower really shines through here.

  • Effect: Brez's beverages contain a blend of THC, CBD, and Lion's Mane, promising a relaxing experience without losing control. Brez also is much more uplifting than some others I have tried. Very consistent and I feel like getting stuff done after drinking them. This would be a great for weekend chores or for a night out!

  • Flavors Available: Lemon Elderflower

About the Company: The Happiest Hour is dedicated to crafting beverages with a higher purpose to help individuals feel their happiest. They emphasize the benefits of terpene-infused beverages and aim to increase their accessibility. The brand believes that happiness is for everyone. The Happiest Hour is a family of third-generation beverage experts who have built on 50 years of experience to create thoughtfully crafted terpene beverages. Their mission revolves around enhancing the well-being of their customers, and they are driven by the vision of seeing their family, friends, and community living their best lives. They are committed to staying updated with the latest research and ensuring that their products are of the highest quality.

Disclosure - I tried their ‘Awake and Partake’ which is not currently offered anymore they offer 2oz ‘shots’

  • Cost: N/A

  • Taste: Juicy and fruity. Though a little on the sweet side. Has a nice carbonation and a beautiful color.

  • Effect: Definitely a strong potency at 15mg but the caffeine balances the effect out for me. Great onset and offset times.

  • Flavors Available: N/a

About the Company: Happi is all about celebrating moments, both big and small. The brand emphasizes the importance of those moments when time seems to slow down, allowing individuals to truly be themselves. Whether it's toasting with friends, relaxing by the lake, or simply taking a quiet moment after a hectic day, Happi believes in making these moments even more special. They refer to these moments as "Happi Hours" and aim to enhance them with their range of beverages. The brand's ethos revolves around the idea that life is happier with a Happi drink in hand. The team behind Happi, led by co-founders Joe Reynolds (CEO) and Lisa Hurwitz (President), is passionate about delivering a product that resonates with consumers and adds joy to their lives.

  • Cost: Starts at $16 per 4-pack

  • Taste: Every flavor I have tried has nailed their dominant flavor but the secondary flavors are extremely subtle and don’t shine through. The beverages are all delicious and have perfect carbonation.

  • Effect: I have found the effects to be nailed based on the cannabinoid content which each one is slightly different. Glow (blood orange ginger) is such a great combination of cannabinoids 5mg THC, 5mg CBD, 3mg CBG, 2mg CBN. It’s relaxing but energizing. It’s perfect for the morning walk or workout.

  • Flavors Available: Wild Mint, Lemon Elderflower, Blood Orange Ginger, Rasperry Honeysuckle, and Turkish Tea

About the Company: Nowadays is all about embracing the present moment. The brand's name, which means "at the present time," encapsulates their philosophy of gathering, laughing, and living in the now. They aim to redefine the drinking experience by offering a healthier alternative to alcohol using low-dose cannabis. Nowadays believes that social moments with friends shouldn't end in hangovers. Their beverages are designed to bring people together, celebrating the present and ensuring that the joy of hanging out remains hangover-free.

  • Cost: Starts at $39.99 per 750ml bottle

  • Taste: The taste is light, crisp, and very citrusy. Doesn’t have the bite of a “spirit” but it’s great by itself and being mixed in with different cocktails.

  • Effect: The onset is quick, light, and full body buzz. It is uplifting and calming all at once. Being able to control the dose is also very useful.

  • Flavors Available: They don’t name their flavors, but both bottles are on the citrusy side.

About the Company: North Canna Co. was founded by long-time friends Brandon Savela and Mike Colich, who both grew up together in Minnesota. With backgrounds in the medical field, they witnessed firsthand how poor food and beverage choices impacted people's lives. This observation led them to establish North Canna Co. in September 2021. Their primary mission is twofold: firstly, to introduce healthier alternatives in the recreational beverage space and secondly, to combat hangovers by encouraging better beverage choices through their range of cannabis-infused drinks.

  • Cost: $30 per 6-pack

  • Taste: These are probably the closest to a ‘white claw’ that i have tasted. They are the same size, have that nice flavor combination. The carbonation is the same. It’s crisp and effervescent. My only beef with these is that they have erythritol in the ingredients. The flavors are absolutely there though. These taste amazing.

  • Effect: The ones I have tried have all been 5mg THC and they pack a punch that’s for sure.

  • Flavors Available: Raspbery Lemon, Blueberry Citrus, Blackberry Mango, Pineapple Orange.

About the Company: Wunder is a refreshing cannabis-infused sparkling beverage that boasts a unique blend of THC & CBD. The brand is all about raising your vibration and offers a breezier beverage experience. With nostalgic, bold flavors that sparkle, Wunder positions itself as "cannabis in a can." The brand has received notable mentions and positive reviews from various media outlets, highlighting its potential as the future of infused beverages. Wunder is committed to providing a balanced and relaxing high, making it a favorite among many consumers.

  • Cost: $59.95 per 12 pack

  • Taste: I have only tried the watermelon basil flavor and they taste amazing. Great carbonation and the watermelon and basil are the perfect combination.

  • Effect: With a blend of THC and CBD, Wunder promises a balanced and relaxing high. Unfortunately these did not hit the mark entirely for the dose size IMO. Definitely felt a nice and relaxing buzz but felt like a lower dose than 5mg.

  • Flavors Available: Watermelon Basil & Blackberry Lemon

Beverages Next on My To-Try List

About the Company: Offfield believes that an open mind combined with an active life is the ideal prescription for self-care. The brand emphasizes honesty, compassion, and empathy, viewing them as pillars of good business. Offfield has a holistic vision that ensures that as they grow, they create a meaningful impact. They have set ambitious goals that revolve around People, Places, and Planet. By allocating 1% of their revenue, they fund initiatives that support these goals.

  • Why It Stands Out: They claim to be a high performance sports drink. I love working out with a little low dose from the time to time and these would do that while also hydrating. Their branding also standouts amongst the crowd. The old school vibe and colors are enticing.

  • Use Cases: Pre and post workout

  • Flavors: Original Lime & Dragonfruit Lemonade

  • Cost: $56 per 8 pack

About the Company: Trail Magic is not just about beverages; it's about an experience. The brand emphasizes the joy of social interactions, offering products that enhance these moments without the drawbacks of hangovers. With a range of flavors that are crafted using 100% real ingredients, Trail Magic promises a delightful shift in perspective. Their beverages are dosed with Delta-9 THC, ensuring the perfect social effect that's both enjoyable and hangover-free. Trail Magic also takes pride in their unique taproom shared with the Minneapolis Cider Company, offering a one-of-a-kind venue that combines THC beverages, craft cider, cocktails, and even pickleball. The brand encourages exploration, inviting consumers to try their "Explorer Pack" and discover their favorite flavor. With a commitment to quality and a passion for creating memorable moments, Trail Magic is on a mission to redefine the cannabis beverage space.

  • Why It Stands Out: I think their flavors are unique in the space and their focus on the outdoor and hiking community.

  • Use Cases: Has to be Hiking for a little trail magic!

  • Flavors: Berry Basil, Half & Half, Lime Margarita, Hop Water

  • Cost: $14.99 per 4-pack

About the Company: Calexo offers a delightful shift in perspective with its line of hemp-infused and uninfused drinks. The brand emphasizes free shipping on all its drinks, making it convenient for customers nationwide. Calexo's beverages are designed to elevate social experiences, allowing consumers to say goodbye to hangovers. The brand is committed to delivering high-quality beverages made with premium ingredients, ensuring a refreshing and innovative drinking experience. Their hemp-infused products are federally legal, containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight.

  • Why It Stands Out: Branding and packaging.

  • Use Cases: Offering an uplifting experience for a night out and as an alcohol substitute

  • Flavors: Citrus Rose, Cucumber Citron, Semitropic,

  • Cost: $60 per 12 pack

Drink Recipe of the Week:

Your Infused Moscow Mule Combine the refreshing flavors of Nowadays with Poppi Prebiotic drinks for a unique take on the classic Moscow Mule.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5oz of Nowadays

  • 0.75oz Lime Juice

  • 6oz of Poppi Ginger Lime

Instructions: 

  1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice cubes.

  2. Add Nowadays and fresh lime juice to the mug.

  3. Top with ginger lime Poppi and stir gently to mix.

  4. Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint, if desired.

  5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

As we continue to explore the world of cannabis beverages, I'm eager to hear your thoughts, experiences, and recommendations. Let's raise our glasses to new discoveries and shared experiences in the world of cannabis-infused drinks!

Cheers,

Lars

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