A Buzz with Benefits: The History of CBD Beer

A fusion of botanical wellness and artisan hops, CBD beer continues to rise in popularity. But where did it come from? This trend may seem like it happened overnight, but it evolved alongside shifting attitudes about cannabis, legislative changes, and a growing demand for functional beverages. Let’s dig into the history of CBD beer and why it’s turning heads in both the brewery and wellness industries.

The Historical Eras of CBD Beer

Early Roots: Hemp and Beer

The history of CBD beer begins with hemp, a beer infusion idea that isn’t entirely new. Hemp and hops are part of the Cannabaceae family, making them botanical cousins. Historically, brewers were drawn to hemp for its earthy aroma and complementary terpene profile. However, legal restrictions kept hemp (and especially CBD) out of mainstream brewing for most of the 20th century.

It wasn’t until the 2014 Farm Bill that hemp cultivation began re-entering the U.S. agricultural scene. The 2018 Farm Bill officially legalized hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% THC. This milestone opened the doors to an explosion of hemp-based innovation, including CBD beer.

First Pours: Trailblazing Breweries

Craft breweries are always looking for new flavors and trends, so it’s no surprise that they began experimenting with CBD as a novel ingredient. Early adopters like Coalition Brewing in Portland and Dad & Dudes Breweria in Colorado were some of the first to bring CBD-infused beer to the public, making them some of the most prominent players in the history of the brew.

Despite facing regulatory hiccups as federal and state agencies scrambled to define CBD regulations more clearly, these early brewers helped prove that CBD wasn’t just a gimmick. It was a new category with genuine consumer interest.

The Science and the Challenges

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, meaning it doesn’t produce the “high” associated with THC. This makes it appealing to anyone looking for the relaxing or anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis without the intoxication. But infusing CBD into beer isn’t as simple as dropping oil into a keg.

Because CBD is fat-soluble, not water-soluble, it doesn’t mix easily with beer. To address that, brewers began turning to water-soluble CBD extracts and emulsification technologies to ensure proper infusion, bioavailability, and flavor consistency.

However, the legal landscape around this method remains murky. The FDA still classifies CBD as a drug ingredient, meaning it technically can’t be added to food or beverages sold across state lines unless the FDA approves it. This means most CBD beers are distributed locally within states with more permissive hemp and beer regulations.

The Market Today: Relaxation on Tap

As the history of CBD beer moves into its modern era, it remains a niche but growing part of the craft beer market. It’s often marketed as a “chill” alternative for anyone looking to unwind without getting drunk or stoned. Some brews cater to health-conscious consumers by remaining non-alcoholic, while others combine low-dose CBD with low ABV for a mellow combo effect.

CBD beer has also found popularity in taprooms like The Growler Guys, festivals, and wellness-focused bars in states like California, Oregon, and Colorado. While it’s still far from mainstream, it represents a fascinating intersection of lifestyle trends: plant-based wellness, craft brewing, and mindful drinking.

Cheers to the Future at The Growler Guys

As laws evolve and CBD becomes more accepted, CBD beer may become more accessible and sophisticated. Advances in brewing technology, bioavailability science, and consumer demand for “functional beverages” could turn it into a regular offering. In the meantime, CBD remains a unique, buzzy option for anyone looking to experience beer in a new, calming light.

Ready to give it a try? Stop by your local Growler Guys. Our extensive rotating tap list features the best local and global craft beers, kombucha, and yes, CBD-infused beers. Stop in today for a pint, flight, or growler fill, and cheers to the history and future of CBD beer.

*Disclaimer: Always consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your routine, especially if you are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.