SoNo 1420 started out as the first distillery in the world to incorporate hemp seed into a whiskey mash bill. The South Norwalk, Connecticut based distillery now boasts two whiskies, three gins and three new vodkas, all of which incorporate the seeds from the hemp plant.

SoNo 1420 Small Batch Spirits Made with Hemp

Hemp vs Marijuana explained.
First off, many people confuse Hemp and Marijuana. The hemp plant looks a bit like the marijuana plant and it actually come from the same plant species, Cannabis Sativa L, but the chemical compositions differ greatly between the two. In short terms, Hemp (like CBD) can’t get you “high.”

Hemp is believed my many people to be one of the oldest domesticated crops in existence. Used for its durable fibers and usefulness in fabrics, hemp eventually became something that humans are continually finding new ways to consume. While both species of plants produce a large amount of CBD, many people claim to experience euphoric effects from hemp. But that’s just not possible given that they do not produce a mind-altering effect. The term “hemp” classifies varieties of Cannabis that contain 0.3% or less THC (the euphoria inducing chemical) content by dry weight. In contrast, the Marijuana plants can produce flower with up to 30% THC.

That said, hemp seeds do have a rich nutritional profile and provide a range of health benefits. Hemp seeds are a complete source of protein, meaning that they provide all nine essential amino acids. They are also a great source of essential fatty acids, such as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is an omega-3. Even without the shells, hemp seeds are a good source of fiber, with three tablespoons containing approximately 1.2 grams. Hemp seeds also contain an impressive array a vitamins and minerals including Vitamin E, Zinc, Magnesium, Phosphorous, Potassium, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B-6 and Iron.

With a growing collection of hemp-based spirits in beautifully designed bottles by Jessica Nichol, SoNo1420 now offers two whiskies, three gins and three new vodkas.

The following text descriptions come directly from SoNo 1420

THE WHISKEYS
Distilled from grains and hemp seeds and finished in oak barrels

1420 BBN

While most people would call this Bourbon, the federal government won’t let us because it contains hemp seed. As a result, we must call it a “1420 BBN – Spirit Distilled from Grains and Hemp Seed and Finished in Oak Barrels”.

Our mash bill, like many whiskeys, is comprised of 75% corn, 15% rye, and 10% milled hemp seed. The nose on this spirit is unexpected, considering the mash bill – light and floral, suggestive of honeysuckle with hints of dried fruit, particularly cherries. On the palate, all the vanilla, cinnamon, and honey expected of a bourbon whiskey are present but, instead of trailing off into the usual extended, syrupy butterscotch-caramel finish, the journey continues down towards some interesting, nutty-flavor characteristics – another contribution of the ground hemp seed. Roll the whiskey over your tongue and chase the flavors down the rabbit hole.

1420 HEMPED RYE SPIRIT

Made from 75% rye, 15% corn, and 10% milled hemp seed, this spirit exhibits pepper on the nose, with a faint and elusive honey undertone.

On the palate, the characteristic bite of rye has been softened to a nibble, allowing flavors of pepper and cinnamon-honey to spring forth pursued by marzipan and dried fruits in the finish. For all its intrigue, this is a rye-drinker’s rye – a day-in/day-out, easy sipping whiskey.

THE GINS:

All of their gins start with small batch, gluten free, neutral spirits that are vapor infused with a medley of botanicals. These botanicals are each specifically selected for the synergistic interaction of plant-produced terpenes (aroma and taste molecules found in the essential oils of plants) and the human body. But they of course, are also focused on taste. So, not only do their gins make you feel good, but they also are some of the best tasting gins ever.

SINDICA BANGTAIL NAVY STRENGTH GIN

Sindica Bangtail Navy Strength Gin’s blend of botanicals emphasizes the energizing terpenes limonene and pinene and forge a spirit that we have been told affords an uplifted state of well-being. Customers drinking this gin have reported an invigorating, inspired cerebral experience that pairs well with physical activity, social gatherings, and creative projects. Bottled at a hearty 114 proof (57% alcohol), this gin isn’t for the faint-of-heart.

SINDICA SKYSAIL LONDON DRY GIN

Sindica Skysail London Dry Gin’s customers have described a balanced, full-body relaxation combined with a gentle cerebral invigoration experience when drinking this spirit. We have infused this gin with a full, yet balanced, complement of the terpenes limonene, myrcene, and alpha-pinene, with a smidge of spilanthol added for a little extra spice. This big, powerful spirit has just the right amount of heat to complement its smooth, lingering finish.

SINDICA MIDNIGHT NEW AMERICAN GIN

Sindica Midnight New American Gin boasts a medley of terpenes including myrcene and linalool that customers describe as a relaxing, whole-body experience that is perfect after a long day at the office, while chilling at home with a movie or perhaps as a simple nightcap just before bedtime.

The VODKAS:

Their vodkas are handcrafted in small batches using 100% corn-based, gluten-free spirits that are vapor infused with a simple, fresh ingredients. With no artificial flavors, no sugar and no artificial sweeteners, all of our vodkas are made with real ingredients resulting in a deliciously real taste.

WE BOTANICALLY HERBACEOUS

SoNo 1420’s We Vodka is an herbaceous, botanical spirit with the clean, leafy taste of Mother Earth herself. Distilled from 100% gluten-free corn, it has no artificial flavors, no sugar, and no artificial sweeteners. It has a raw, floral taste that’s not right for everyone but begs the question – is it right for YOU?

LE LEMON FLAVORED VODKA

SoNo 1420’s Le Lemon Flavored Vodka is simply made and simply the best citrus vodka on the market. It’s distilled from just two ingredients: 100% corn and peels from fresh lemons – no artificial flavors, no sugar, no artificial sweeteners, and no gluten. The result is a deliciously fresh taste that is perfect in your favorite cocktail, simply mixed with soda or straight up on ice.

BO BLOOD ORANGE FLAVORED VODKA

SoNo 1420’s Bo Blood Orange Flavored Vodka combines the flavor of ripe, juicy blood oranges with just three other fresh ingredients to create a smooth, sweet zesty experience refined enough to sip on its own or robust enough to complement your favorite mixer.

You can currently purchase their products from their online shop.

all images and information courtesy of SoNo1420