Brazilian distillery debuts cannabis terpene whisky RTD

Lamas Distillery launches Sky Kush Ice, a canned whisky, lemon and cannabis terpene RTD with no psychoactive effects, at BH Carnival 2026.

One of Brazil’s biggest street parties, the Belo Horizonte Carnival has become a testing ground for new drinks, where creations like Xeque Mate, Lambe Lambe and Xá de Cana first went viral. The latest bet to circulate among blocos and bars in the city is Sky Kush Ice, a ready-to-drink can from Lamas Distillery that blends whisky, lemon and natural cannabis terpenes into a light, sparkling serve.

The idea may sound provocative at first glance, but the focus is far from any psychoactive effect. Sky Kush Ice contains no THC or CBD, and the experience is entirely sensorial. Terpenes — aromatic compounds found in many plants — are used to add herbal, citrus and slightly resinous layers to the flavour profile, creating an unexpected dialogue between the whisky and the freshness of lemon.

Positioned in the RTD segment, the new drink aims at a more premium and complex sensorial experience, targeting both whisky enthusiasts and cannabis-curious consumers who look for products without psychoactive components.

Cannabis terpenes, no THC or CBD

According to Luciana Lamas, the distillery’s CEO, the Sky Kush concept was born from a desire to innovate within the whisky universe. The line began as a high-proof cocktail made with single malt whisky and natural terpenes and now gains a new canned expression at 6% ABV, designed to be served chilled on relaxed occasions.

The terpene profile used in the drink comes from OG Kush, one of the most famous cannabis strains, celebrated for its aroma. In the can, it does not translate into effects, but into nose and palate. “It is a way of exploring the botanical potential of terpenes, something that is already common in craft beer and mixology, but still rare in the whisky world,” Luciana explains.

She stresses that Sky Kush Ice complies with all regulations set by Anvisa (Brazil’s health agency) and the Ministry of Agriculture, and is classified as a carbonated mixed alcoholic beverage. By using natural terpenes without cannabinoids, the product taps into cannabis culture legally and without altering consumers’ state of mind.

Launch at Belo Horizonte Carnival

The first public appearance of Sky Kush Ice will be in a symbolic arena: the Belo Horizonte Carnival, which has become a national showcase for original, author-driven drinks. An initial batch of 20,000 cans will be distributed at bohemian hotspots and strategic locations across the city, especially in areas where blocos gather.

The choice is no coincidence. It was in BH’s streets that drinks such as Xeque Mate and Lambe Lambe first gained momentum before reaching a wider Brazilian audience. Lamas Distillery is betting that its cannabis-terpene whisky RTD will follow a similar path, driven by word of mouth among Carnival-goers.

From street trial to online launch

After this test run during Carnival, Sky Kush Ice is set to broaden its reach. The official launch on the distillery’s e-commerce is scheduled for February, with nationwide delivery in Brazil. Expansion to physical retail will be gradual, following production capacity and consumer response.

The goal is to turn the canned drink into a long-term fixture in the brand’s portfolio, suited both to festive occasions and more casual moments at home or in bars. With its lower ABV, carbonation and marked aromatic profile, the product aims to surf the current wave of diversified and more sophisticated RTDs.

Sensory experience for an urban lifestyle

More than a Carnival curiosity, Sky Kush Ice reflects a broader shift in the drinks industry: growing interest in sensory experiences, botanical ingredients and products that speak to a contemporary urban lifestyle.

In the glass, the promise is clear: freshness, layered aromatics and a twist on the traditional whisky serve, without cannabis-related side effects. The focus remains on aroma and flavour, bringing together whisky drinkers, cannabis enthusiasts seeking non-psychoactive options and consumers eager to explore new premium RTDs.

With this launch, Lamas Distillery reinforces its position as an innovative player in Minas Gerais and in Brazil, presenting a drink that blends whisky, lemon and cannabis terpenes into a contemporary take on what a Carnival drink can be — and on what can stay in the routine long after the party ends.