Charleston, September 22, 2025
News Summary
Charleston is witnessing a rapid growth in the cannabis beverage industry as consumers increasingly turn away from traditional alcoholic drinks. Fueled by the legalization of hemp through the 2018 Farm Bill, local innovators are launching THC and CBD-infused beverages, offering flavorful alternatives to beer and spirits. The shift in consumer preferences, with a notable decline in alcohol consumption, positions the cannabis drink market for significant growth, projected to reach $4 billion by 2028.
Charleston is experiencing a significant surge in the cannabis beverage industry as consumers shift away from traditional alcoholic drinks. The boom in THC and CBD beverages, including flavorful seltzers and mixers, provides an enticing alternative to conventional options like beer and spirits.
The legalization of hemp through the federal 2018 Farm Bill has been pivotal in fostering this new market. The bill made hemp products containing 0.3% THC or less legal, creating an avenue for a burgeoning cannabis industry that is now thriving in Charleston.
Current trends indicate that Americans are moving away from alcohol consumption, evidenced by nearly a 6% drop in beer volumes, a 5.6% decline in spirits, and a 9% decrease in wine during the first half of 2025. This cultural shift is reflected in projections for the THC drink industry, which is anticipated to reach $4 billion by 2028, unveiling substantial market opportunities for local producers.
Local Innovators in the Cannabis Beverage Market
High Rise Beverage Co., a Charleston-based company, is leading the charge with its THC and CBD-infused seltzers. These beverages, made with real fruit and free of artificial flavors and alcohol, cater to health-conscious consumers. High Rise offers options that are gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO, with flavors such as blood orange, blueberry, lime, and pineapple, infused with 3 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg of THC.
As public interest in THC products grows, grocery chains are beginning to recognize and respond to the rising demand for these types of beverages. Another local brand, Gentlemen Smugglers SIPS, specializes in hemp-derived THC drink mixers that can be added to any beverage. SIPS come in individual packets, providing precise micro-doses of THC (5 mg, 10 mg, or 20 mg) that act in 15 to 30 minutes.
Expansion of Hemp-Derived Products
Commonhouse Aleworks, a brewery located in North Charleston, has entered the hemp beverage market with its CAVU line, initially offering blood orange and tangerine flavors. CAVU beverages are enriched with Delta-9 THC and CBD, made on-site at the brewery’s taproom, with plans to broaden their availability in retail stores.
This innovative approach arrives at a time when the craft beer industry is facing challenges, including a decline in the number of breweries. In response, many companies are diversifying their offerings to include cannabis-infused beverages as a strategic move to attract consumers.
Commonhouse Aleworks is dedicated to complying with all state and federal health regulations concerning their hemp beverage production, ensuring a safe product for consumers. Crescent 9 has also emerged as a popular THC seltzer brand in Charleston, providing various flavors and potencies and positioning itself as a healthier alternative to alcohol.
Consumer Demand and Future Outlook
Young entrepreneurs and established brands alike are capitalizing on the growing trend of non-alcoholic options that offer uplifting and euphoric effects. The cannabis beverage sector remains dynamic, with ongoing developments in regulatory frameworks aimed at supporting safe and responsible production practices. The future appears bright for cannabis beverages in Charleston, as consumer preferences continue to evolve.
FAQs
What has contributed to the rise of the cannabis beverage industry in Charleston?
The legalization of hemp at the federal level through the 2018 Farm Bill allowed hemp products containing 0.3% THC or less to be legal, paving the way for a booming cannabis industry.
How is alcohol consumption changing in the U.S.?
Americans are moving away from alcohol, with beer volumes decreasing nearly 6%, spirits down 5.6%, and wine down 9% in the first half of 2025.
What are the projected earnings for the THC drink industry?
The THC drink industry is projected to reach $4 billion by 2028, signaling a significant market opportunity.
Key Features of Cannabis Beverages in Charleston
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Health Benefits | No hangovers, fewer calories, greater control over consumption. |
| Variety of Flavors | Available flavors include blood orange, blueberry, lime, and pineapple. |
| Infusion Types | Products include THC seltzers and CBD-infused drinks. |
| Proud Local Brands | Companies like High Rise Beverage Co. and Commonhouse Aleworks are leading the market. |
| Consumer Preferences | Shift towards non-alcoholic options with uplifting effects. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charleston Welcomes Happy Hour Specials at Local Restaurants
Lawyers Prepare for Massive Growth in Legal Cannabis Market
Nicole Howell Joins Munger, Tolles & Olson as New Lawyer
Missouri Lawyer Targets THCA Flower Sales Amid Legal Concerns
High Rise Seltzers Launches New Cannabis Dry Bar in Charleston
Charleston Embraces Nonalcoholic Beverages This January
Additional Resources
- Charleston City Paper: Living the Dream Area’s Only CBD Gummy Manufacturer Prioritizes Innovation & Quality
- Post and Courier: Commonhouse Aleworks Hemp Seltzer
- Eater: High Rise Beverage Company
- Live 5 News: Lowcountry Hemp Businesses Face New Rules
- Wikipedia: Cannabis Beverage
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
