Minnesota is now the first state to explicitly allow taprooms to offer THC beverages on draft, like any other craft brewery offering.
A state law went into effect July 1 that allows hemp-derived THC beverages on draft, expanding options for patrons and brewers beyond the aluminum cans that have become increasingly popular in the last two years.
The law allows edible cannabis products consumed as beverages to be served outside of packaging if all information required on the packaging is posted or otherwise displayed by retailers.
HeadFlyer Brewing in Minneapolis may be the only taproom currently offering THC on draft. The product takes a week to manufacture, including testing; with a tap line available, HeadFlyer was ready to offer its first draft seltzer on day one, said Taproom Manager Dan Schnabel.
“Beer is always gonna taste best in a keg versus in a can or in a bottle, and I would say the same thing with THC,” Schnabel said.
Its Maui Wowie Punch is one serving of THC served in a 10-ounce goblet for $6.
For consumers, the law change helps to normalize consuming THC beverages, said Bob Galligan, government relations director of the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild.
“The ultimate goal of us working on this language is taking away the stigma of consuming THC, especially as a beverage, and kind of opening the doors for people who do consume THC ... seeing it actually poured on tap and to actually be served it in a pint alongside their friends who are consuming beer,” Galligan said.