Dry January is becoming increasingly popular as people seek to start the new year off on the right foot. According to statistics, roughly one-quarter of American adults aim to abstain from alcohol this month. For those who still want a bit of a buzz, THC beverages can be a welcome alternative. So what are the best cannabis drinks for Dry January?
RELATED: Another major retailer signs on to sell THC drinks
From microdosed seltzers to THC mocktails, we’ve got a little something for everyone.
Best Tasting – Oliphant
The GreenState team has tried countless cannabis drinks over the years, but Oliphant stands out as a clear winner in terms of flavor. The Wisconsin-based brewery offers a wide variety of THC beverages, with potencies ranging from 3 mg to 50 mg. Our favorite Oliphant offerings include cranberry-rich Bog Boy, sherbet-inspired Rainbow Kushy, and good old-fashioned Blue Lemonade.
Best Seltzer – Pharos
Co-founded by a couple’s therapist who saw a need for alcohol alternatives, Pharos is a mature yet delicious THC brand. The flavors are consistent, and the hemp extract is naturally derived, earning big points from the GreenState team. Our favorite is the Mango variety, but the Blood Orange Lime is also delightful.
Best Soda – Keef
One of the top-selling THC drinks in the country, Keef is known for its popular line of sodas inspired by classic flavors. From Original Cola to grape-leaning Purple Passion, Keef has something to tickle every sweet tooth. Bubba Kush Root Beer is our top pick, but the mocktails line is also intriguing.
RELATED: Why THC drinks might be the last hemp product standing
Best Low Dose Drink – Cann
Another highly in-demand drink is Cann. With celebrity investors and big-box distribution deals, the “social tonics” brand offers big flavor and just a hint of THC. Flagship flavors include Blood Orange Cardamom, Lemon Lavender, and Grapefruit Rosemary, starting in 2 mg doses. Cann has introduced 5 mg and 10 mg varieties for the higher-tolerance crowd, but the OG will always be our tried-and-true favorite.
Best Wine Alternative – Mariona
Wine aficionados will adore Mariona. The New York-based brand offers three unique bottles with complex flavors and zero hangovers. At a GreenState taste-test, the brand’s blush-inspired Vivid drink was a clear standout, though discovery sets featuring all three flavors are available for those who love a flight.
Best Spirit Alternative – Ellora
Ellora turns any THC fan into a mocktail mixologist. The product comes from uber-popular Crescent 9, makers of best-selling cannabis seltzers. Crafted from blue agave and lemon, the spirit alternative works well in a variety of drink recipes or on its own in a highball glass over ice.
RELATED: Expert advice on crafting weed drinks from your garden
Best Ready-to-Drink Mocktail – Spooky Espresso Martini
Espresso martinis aren’t just having a moment—they’re the moment. If you crave the cocktail’s rich flavor and jolt of energy without the booze, Spooky has an offering for you. The award-winning craft beverage flavor company partnered with Minneleaf to create a THC-infused version of America’s favorite libation. We had a sip at a cannabis event last summer and have been seeking the brand ever since.
Best Non-Carbonated Drink – Desi High Masala Chai
Anyone who has experimented with cannabis drinks may have noticed one commonality: the vast majority are carbonated. Those seeking to avoid bubbles will love the Masala Chai from Desi High. This Indian-inspired offering is one of the yummiest THC bevvies we’ve ever had—and that’s really saying something. The brand also offers a flagship Bhaang drink, one of the world’s first Bhaangs in a can.
RELATED: Sober(ish) drink shop speaks to growing trend
Dry January doesn’t have to mean “no fun.” Those trying the Cali sober lifestyle may take time to reflect on their consumption and discover new favorites to add to the beverage fridge along the way.
