Why is SweetWater called 420?

Answered by Randy McIntyre

SweetWater is called 420 because it is a reference to cannabis culture and the connection between hops and marijuana. The term “420” has become synonymous with cannabis and is often used as a code word or slang to refer to the consumption of marijuana. It originated in the 1970s when a group of high school students in California would meet at 4:20 pm to smoke marijuana. Over time, the term spread and became widely recognized among cannabis enthusiasts.

Now, let’s delve into the connection between hops and marijuana. Hops, the main ingredient in beer, belong to the same family as cannabis, the Cannabaceae family. Both plants share similar aromatic compounds called terpenes, which give them their distinct scents and flavors. This similarity in scent and taste is what inspired SweetWater to create the 420 Strain Series, a lineup of beers that incorporate terpenes found in cannabis.

The 420 Strain Series aims to capture the essence of cannabis in beer form by infusing the brews with terpenes extracted from specific cannabis strains. These terpenes contribute to the aroma and flavor profile of the beer, giving it a unique and distinct character. The result is a series of beers that pay homage to the connection between hops and marijuana.

Personally, I find the concept behind the 420 Strain Series fascinating. As a craft beer enthusiast, I’m always intrigued by breweries that push the boundaries and experiment with different ingredients and flavors. SweetWater’s decision to incorporate cannabis-inspired terpenes into their beers adds an exciting twist to the brewing process and offers consumers a chance to experience the flavors and aromas of cannabis in a legal and socially acceptable way.

It’s worth noting that the 420 Strain Series does not contain any THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. These beers are purely for flavor and sensory experience, allowing beer drinkers to explore the connection between hops and cannabis without the intoxicating effects of THC.

SweetWater is called 420 due to its celebration of cannabis culture and the connection between hops and marijuana. The 420 Strain Series offers a unique and immersive beer-drinking experience by infusing the brews with cannabis-inspired terpenes. It’s a creative and innovative approach that appeals to both craft beer enthusiasts and cannabis enthusiasts alike. So, if you’re looking for a liquid family reunion that brings together the worlds of hops and marijuana, the 420 Strain Series from SweetWater might just be the perfect choice.