What is Hemp?

Both hemp and marijuana are the same species of plant, cannabis sativa. Hemp, by law, contains less than 0.3% THC, the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana and is therefore 100% federally legal to purchase and consume in the U.S. Most seed sold in the U.S. are grown in and imported from Canada, but a few states (CO, VA, KY, TN) are starting to grow and produce hemp products, including seed.

Hemp Seeds

Hemp seeds are exceptionally nutritious and rich in healthy fats, protein and various minerals. They are a great source of protein source and contain high amounts of vitamin E, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron. Characterized by a mild, nutty flavor, hemp seeds can be consumed raw, cooked or roasted. Hemp seed oil is also very healthy, and has been used as a food/medicine in China for at least 3,000 years.

Hemp Flower

Hemp flower, like most flowers, contain aromatic and flavorful compounds called terpenes. Terpenes help plants thrive and survive through functions such as attracting pollinators and repelling predators. In humans, many plant terpenes have demonstrated an ability to provide therapeutic and holistic benefits and are used in many cultures in alternative medicine practices.

Hemped Whiskey

Until the passage of the 2014 Farm Bill, growing hemp was illegal in the U.S. for more than 70 years. As a result, hemp seed has been unavailable for the widespread use in food products, let alone in the mash bill of whiskeys. SoNo 1420 has changed that! By experimenting with this nutritious grain in our recipes, we have developed bourbon and rye mash bills that perfectly balance traditional whiskey grains like corn, rye, wheat and barley with hemp seed to create delicious, "hemped" whiskeys unlike any spirits in the market. One taste of these remarkable whiskeys is all it takes and you, too, will be a believer!