If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis, you might want to try making weed wine. Weed wine, also known as cannabis infused vine or pot wine, has been enjoyed for centuries and is currently gaining popularity among marijuana enthusiasts. In this guide, we’ll show you how to easily make your own cannabis-infused wine at home. But before we dive into the process, let’s explore what makes weed wine so interesting and why it’s worth trying.
What Makes Weed Wine Unique?
Cannabis-infused wine offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience by combining the flavors and aromas of both cannabis and wine. The aromatic compounds called terpenes found in both cannabis strains and grapes give cannabis-infused wine a distinct flavor bouquet that sets it apart from traditional wines. This unique combination of terpenes creates a flavor profile that can be a delightful change for your taste buds.
But the unique experience doesn’t stop at the taste. Cannabis-infused wine also offers a different kind of effect compared to other cannabis consumption methods. The alcohol in wine enhances the effects of THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, resulting in a cheery and relaxing experience. Many users report feeling a pleasant flush after the first sip, followed by a cheerful high that eventually leads to a restful sleep.
Moreover, cannabis-infused wine can be an alternative for those who prefer not to smoke or consume edibles. If you’re not a fan of traditional cannabis consumption methods, cannabis wine provides a discreet and enjoyable way to reap the benefits of cannabis.
The History of Weed Wine
Cannabis-infused wine is not a new concept. People have been infusing wine with cannabis for centuries. In ancient times, it was common to infuse wine with various herbs and additives, and cannabis was a favorite choice even then. Mulled wine, which is wine spiced up with herbs and other ingredients, is still popular today, especially in Europe.
The Benefits of Making Your Own Weed Wine
While there are cannabis-infused wines available in the market, making your own at home has its advantages. First and foremost, it can save you a significant amount of money. Celebrity-branded canna wines from boutique dispensaries can be quite expensive, but by making your own, you can enjoy the experience without breaking the bank.
Another benefit of DIY cannabis-infused wine is that you have control over the ingredients and the potency of the final product. You can choose your favorite cannabis strain, adjust the dosage according to your preferences, and experiment with different flavors and aromas.
Now that you understand the unique qualities and benefits of cannabis-infused wine, let’s explore two different methods you can use to make your own at home.
Recipe 1: Infusing Your Wine with a “Tea Bag”
This method involves infusing the wine directly in the bottle using a pouch made from cheesecloth. It’s a simple and effective way to infuse any type of wine with cannabis. Here’s how you can do it:
Weed Wine Ingredients
- 1 bottle of dry red or white wine
- 0.7 – 0.9 oz of your favorite cannabis strain (buds or trim)
Equipment
- Baking sheet for decarboxylating cannabis
- Tin foil
- Cheesecloth
Directions
- Before infusing the wine, you need to decarboxylate the cannabis. This process activates the cannabinoids in cannabis that give you the desired effects. Crumble your cannabis into large pieces and wrap them in tin foil. Place the wrapped cannabis on a baking sheet and bake it at 110°C (230°F) for about 45–60 minutes. This temperature ensures the decarboxylation process takes place, converting inactive THCA into THC.
- After baking, remove the cannabis from the oven and open the tin foil to let any residual moisture evaporate. Grind the decarboxylated cannabis into fine pieces using a grinder or pestle. Finely ground cannabis will allow for easier and faster extraction.
- Create a small pouch using cheesecloth or pantyhose and place the decarboxylated cannabis inside. Twist the pouch and tie it into a knot. Submerge your cannabis “tea bag” into the bottle of wine, ensuring it is completely submerged in the alcohol. Put the cork back in the bottle.
- Place the wine bottle with the cannabis-infused pouch in the fridge and let it infuse for about a day. The alcohol in the wine will extract the cannabinoids from the cannabis during this time. For better extraction, it is recommended to agitate the bottle every few hours.
- When you’re ready to enjoy your cannabis-infused wine, remove the pouch with the cannabis. Simply removing the bag will result in a less potent infusion. However, if you squeeze the remaining liquid from the bag back into the bottle, your wine will be more potent.
- Pour yourself a glass of chilled cannabis-infused wine and savor the unique flavors and effects. Remember to start with a small amount to gauge your tolerance and find the optimal dosage.
Recipe 2: Boiling the Wine and Cannabis for a Potent Brew
If you’re looking for a cannabis wine with a vacation-like taste and extra potency, this alternative method is for you. By boiling the wine and cannabis together with some spices, you can create a delightful and potent cannabis-infused wine. Here’s how you can do it:
Weed Wine Ingredients
- 1 bottle of red wine
- 1 oz of trim or shake
- 4 cloves
- 1 orange
- ¼ tsp. cardamom
- ¼ tsp. nutmeg
- ½ tsp. ground cinnamon
Equipment
- Large saucepan or crock pot
- Sieve or cheesecloth
Directions
- Pour the red wine into a large pot and place it on the stove.
- Coarsely grind the cannabis and add it to the wine in the saucepan.
- Add the spices to the mix. The cloves, orange, cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg will add a delightful vacation-like taste to the wine, enhancing the flavors of both the cannabis and the wine. The citrus fruit and vitamin C are thought to work in concert with the other compounds in cannabis, enhancing its effects through the entourage effect.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for about 2 hours with the lid closed. Keep an eye on the brew and ensure that too much liquid is not evaporating.
- After 2 hours, strain the wine and spice mixture using a fine cheesecloth or sieve.
- Serve the cannabis-infused wine and enjoy the unique flavors and potent effects. Remember to start with a small amount and adjust the dosage according to your tolerance.
Bonus Tips for Making Weed Wine
Now that you have learned the two methods of making weed wine, here are some additional tips to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience:
- Choose the right strain: The choice of cannabis strain will greatly influence the flavors, aromas, and effects of your infused wine. Experiment with different strains to find the one that suits your preferences.
- Start with a small dosage: Weed wine can have a stronger effect compared to smoking or edibles. Start with a small amount to gauge your tolerance and adjust the dosage accordingly.
- Store your infused wine properly: Weed wine should be stored in a cool, dark place to maintain its potency and flavors. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
- Enjoy responsibly: As with any cannabis product, it’s important to consume cannabis-infused wine responsibly. Be aware of the effects, take your time, and enjoy in moderation.
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to embark on your cannabis-infused wine-making journey. Get creative, experiment with different strains and flavors, and enjoy the unique experience of cannabis-infused wine from the comfort of your home. Cheers!