Infusing marijuana into alcohol is a popular way to make cannabis tinctures and infused liquors. The process allows you to easily control the strength and dosage of THC and other cannabinoids in your final product. However, not all types of alcohol work equally well for cannabis infusions. The best alcohol to use depends on factors like taste, potency, and how you plan to consume the infused liquor. This article will compare different types of alcohol for infusing weed and provide tips on choosing the best option.
Key Factors for Choosing Cannabis-Infusing Alcohol
When deciding which alcohol is best for infusing marijuana, here are some of the key factors to consider:
Taste
Some alcohols have a stronger flavor that can overpower the taste of cannabis, while others are more neutral. Think about how you want the final product to taste. Sweeter liquors like rum or vodka tend to complement weed flavor better than bitter tinctures made with something like whiskey.
Proof
Higher proof (higher percentage of alcohol) allows more THC to dissolve out of the plant material. Most experts recommend using alcohol that is at least 80 proof (40% ABV). Grain alcohols that are 90-95% ABV work best.
Intended Use
Consider how you plan to consume the infused alcohol. Using liquor like vodka or gin allows you to add it to cocktails and drink it straight in shots. Lower proof options may be better for sipping or adding to mixed drinks.
Mixability
Some types of liquor mix better into cocktails and drinks. If you want to use the infused alcohol for mixing, go with versatile options like rum, vodka, or gin. Whiskey and brandy are trickier to mix smoothly.
Best Types of Alcohol for Infusing Cannabis
Taking all the factors above into account, here are some of the best options for infusing marijuana into alcohol:
Vodka
Vodka is one of the most popular choices for cannabis tinctures and infusions. It has a neutral taste that won’t interfere with the flavor of weed. The high alcohol content (typically 80-95%) allows efficient extraction. Vodka’s mixability also makes it ideal for infused cocktails.
Everclear
Everclear is a brand of neutral spirit that comes in 95% ABV and 190 proof varieties. The extremely high alcohol concentration maximizes extraction efficiency. Everclear has very little flavor, allowing the cannabis to shine. It can be used to make potent tinctures or diluted for use in infused liquors.
Rum
Dark and gold rums work well for infusing marijuana. Rum retains its sweetness while taking on cannabis flavors. Look for 80 proof or higher when selecting a rum. The flavor pairs nicely with fruity or spicy strains. Infused rum is tasty on its own or mixed into cocktails.
Gin
Dry gin can also be used to make cannabis infusions, although lower proof varieties may be less efficient. The botanical flavors pair nicely with certain herbal strains. Infused gin retains its signature piney juniper taste. It can be consumed in martinis and other cocktails.
Whiskey
Although whiskey has a bold flavor, it still infuses nicely with cannabis. Try using Bourbon or rye whiskey. The lower water content helps extraction compared to Scotch. Whiskey infusions have an earthy, woodsy taste. They are best consumed straight rather than mixed into other drinks.
Brandy
Brandy made from grapes has a sweetness that goes well with cannabis flavor. The 80 proof standard bottlings may require longer infusion, but retain more terpenes. Brandy infusions work well when sipped straight or on the rocks. The flavor also complements a range of strains.
How to Choose the Right Alcohol
Considering your personal preferences is key to selecting the best liquor for infusing marijuana. Here are some tips:
– If flavor is a priority, go with a more aromatic alcohol like rum, gin, or brandy to complement the strain. Vodka and Everclear work if you just want the taste of cannabis.
– Review the proof and ABV content when buying alcohol. Around 90-100 proof (45-50% ABV) usually provides the most efficient THC extraction.
– Think about the finished product. Is it for mixing, shooting, sipping? This will help determine whether to use whiskey, vodka, rum, etc.
– Consider your tolerance. Higher proof alcohols like Everclear make very potent tinctures that may be too strong for inexperienced users.
– Be willing to experiment. You may be surprised at how complementary some alcohol flavors are with certain marijuana strains.
– Look for good quality liquors without added sugars or flavors that could interfere with the infusion.
Steps for Infusing Marijuana into Alcohol
Once you’ve selected the best type of alcohol for your needs, here is the basic process for infusing it with cannabis:
Choose your cannabis
Use freshly dried and cured buds if possible. Well-flushed plants produce better flavor. The strain you select will impact the effects and experience.
Decarboxylate the cannabis
Heating activates THC and other cannabinoids prior to infusion, a process known as decarboxylation. Spread buds on a baking sheet and bake at 230°F for 40 minutes.
Calculate quantity
The amount of weed used determines potency. For tinctures, a good starting ratio is 1 gram of bud to 4 fluid ounces of alcohol. For infused liquor, use less, like 1 gram per 8-10 ounces.
Fill jar
Place decarboxylated cannabis in a glass jar or bottle with the measured amount of alcohol. Everclear requires more headspace than lower proof liquor that may expand.
Infuse mixture
Seal jar and shake periodically for 2-3 minutes over the course of 3 hours. For maximum extraction, leave for 1-2 weeks in a cool, dark place, shaking daily.
Strain and filter
Pour through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer to remove plant material. For clearer liqueur, use a coffee filter.
Adjust strength
For a smoother recreational liquor, dilute with more alcohol or simple syrup to reach desired potency. Water can also be added but may cause clouding.
Bottle and store
Funnel back into a bottle or jar. Tinctures will keep for years but infused liquor for just a few months. Keep away from light and heat to maintain potency.
Considerations for Cannabis and Alcohol
There are a few important factors to keep in mind when combining marijuana and liquor:
– Only use alcohol intended for drinking — isopropyl alcohol is toxic.
– Avoid high proof alcohols like Everclear if you are inexperienced with cannabis.
– Cannabis can amplify the effects of alcohol. Moderate your intake of infused liquors.
– Shake well before use and start with small doses to determine potency and effects.
– Infused alcohol takes effect faster than edibles but slower than smoking, usually within 15-30 minutes.
– Store safely away from children and pets. The sweet flavors can appeal to kids but cannabis and alcohol both pose serious risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best alcohol for infusing weed to make Rick Simpson Oil?
Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is most often made using a very high proof solvent like 190-proof grain alcohol (95% ABV). This allows for full extraction and a thick, potent oil. Everclear is commonly used, though industrial ethanol may produce higher yields.
Can you use lower proof alcohols like wine or beer to infuse marijuana?
It is possible but not ideal. The lower alcohol content of wine (10-15% ABV) and beer (4-6% ABV) leads to less efficient extraction. More plant material and longer infusion times are needed to produce a potent result. Flavors can also be overpowered.
What’s better for infusing weed – rum or vodka?
Both rum and vodka work well. Vodka results in a neutral flavor that highlights the cannabis. Dark rum adds rich, sweet molasses notes that complement weed. For mixed drinks, vodka is more versatile. For sipping and enjoying the infusion flavor itself, try aged rum. Personal taste preferences should determine whether rum or vodka is “better” for your needs.
Can you let cannabis infuse in alcohol for too long?
Yes, over-infusing is possible. Most THC and cannabinoids will fully extract within 2 weeks. Leaving plants soaking for months on end can draw out more chlorophyll, waxes, and undesirable compounds that create a harsh green flavor. Stick to a maximum of 1-2 months infusion time.
Is higher proof alcohol better for infusing marijuana?
Generally, yes. The higher the alcohol percentage or proof, the more efficiently it can strip cannabinoids from plant material. For tinctures, 95% ABV neutral spirits like Everclear work great. 80 proof is usually sufficient minimum for infused liquors. The trade-off is potency vs. taste – higher proof alcohol can overpower flavors.
Conclusion
Choosing the right alcohol is key to making great infused cannabis liquors. Vodka, Everclear, rum, gin, and whiskey can all be used successfully. Consider the intended use, flavor, potency, and your personal drinking preferences when deciding which option is best for your weed infusion project. With some care and experimentation, you can create custom infused liquors that offer the combined relaxing joy of alcohol and marijuana. Just be sure to infuse responsibly.