Start-up to launch ‘world’s first’ cannabis-infused gin

Australian start-up The Cannabis Company is set to release what it claims is the world’s first gin distilled using cannabis oils.

The Cannabis Company’s Myrcene Hemp Gin

The Melbourne-based firm’s inaugural spirits brand, called The Myrcene Hemp Gin, takes its name from the myrcene terpene found in cannabis. Myrcene terpenes are the primary components of the essential oils in many kinds of medicinal plants.

According to The Cannabis Company, terpenes are desirable due to their therapeutic value in health and wellness supplements.

The firm discovered that terpenes and spirits have “commonalities”, with early pioneers adding terpenes to their pot stills to “mask the flavour of crudely-produced spirits”.

To create the gin, The Cannabis Company uses column stills to create a “lighter and more refined gin”. The addition of myrcene terpene gives the gin a “joyful sense of euphoria alongside its relaxation-inducing qualities”.

The Myrcene Hemp Gin is described as having “bubblegum aromas blended with lavender, pine forest and sage, soft tones of violet interact on the palate with woodland flavours of rosemary and resin, cloves and woody spices”.

Created in Healesville, the expression is limited to 300 bottles and is available to pre-order for AU$99.00 (US$71.20).

A recent report claimed that sales of cannabis-based food and drinks in North America could hit US$4bn by 2022.