A DIY guide to cannabis cocktails with bartender Shane Gifford

The effects of edibles tend to take a while to kick in, whereas cannabis-infused drinks tend to hit slightly faster.

Health Canada finalized the rules around the legal sale of cannabis edibles in October 2019, and there are now plenty of new options for cannabis consumption on the market.

Combining cannabis and alcohol can intensify the effects of both, so if you’ve never tried a cannabis product, it’s best to try it on its own first.

He’s been playing with cannabis infusions at home for most of that time and finds adding cannabis to his cocktails gives drinks “a heavier weight,” adding another dimension to both the flavour and the experience that follows.

Gifford suggests using CBD oils that have a “grounding” effect.

For example, in the Industry Sour, the herbaceous notes in Fernet Branca and Chartreuse layer nicely with sativa oil, while the Bee’s Knees recipe replaces regular honey for weed honey in the classic cocktail.

Industry Sour This is like a bartender’s handshake — Fernet is a favourite ingredient among bartenders.

If you’re feeling especially adventurous, Gifford suggests infusing your gin with cannabis too.

…Read the full story