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Vermont-based cannabinoid beverage specialist Upstate Elevator has announced its entry into the alternative spirits category with the debut of its Añejo Lime THC Spirit.

The launch marks the brand's first foray into zero-proof spirits, strategically timed to coincide with Dry January. The product is positioned as a sophisticated alternative to alcohol, leveraging a "rapid onset" formulation to appeal to social drinkers seeking a functional buzz without the hangover.

Formulation and Potency

The spirit is engineered to mimic the complexity of traditional tequila while delivering a controlled functional effect.

Technical Specifications:

• Potency: Each 750 mL bottle contains 166 mg of THC.

• Serving Size: A standard 1.5 oz pour delivers 10 mg of THC.

• Functional Additives: Enhanced with 38 mg of L-theanine per serving to promote relaxation.

• Bioavailability: The proprietary formulation is crafted for a quick onset, with effects reportedly noticeable within 15 minutes.

Flavour Profile and Usage

Departing from the simple fruit profiles often found in cannabis seltzers, the Añejo Lime Spirit offers a complex palate designed for sipping or mixing. The flavour notes include smoky oak, bright citrus, and a "playful flicker" of jalapeño heat.

The brand suggests the product is versatile enough to be consumed neat, on the rocks, or as a base for mocktails, fitting seamlessly into traditional cocktail rituals.

Dylan Raap, Founder & CEO of Upstate Elevator, commented on the consumer demand driving the innovation:

The product retails at $49.99 and is available immediately for direct purchase via the brand's website. In a move that highlights the evolving regulatory landscape for hemp-derived cannabinoids, the spirit is also rolling out to select retailers in Texas, New Jersey, and Tennessee.