All About Kentucky Hop Water

Kentucky Hop Water brings a unique twist to the world of D9 drinks as Kentucky's first canned hop water, launched in 2024 by craft beer industry veteran Michael Moeller. This Louisville-based brand specializes in hop-forward, alcohol-free sparkling waters made with limestone-filtered Kentucky water and real Citra and Amarillo hops, delivering bright citrusy notes without any juices, sweeteners, or "natural flavors." In September 2025, Kentucky Hop Water expanded into the hemp-derived cannabis market with a 5mg Delta-9 THC version, honoring the Commonwealth's historical legacy as America's leading hemp producer in the 1800s. The THC-infused variant maintains the same beloved hop profile while adding a light functional effect, all while keeping zero calories and zero sugar. As a federally compliant product under the 2018 Farm Bill, Kentucky Hop Water ships nationwide with proper age verification, offering consumers a refreshing alternative that bridges the gap between craft beer culture and the emerging THC beverage market.

Products Overview

Kentucky Hop Water keeps it simple with a focused lineup of hop-forward sparkling waters available in both THC-infused and non-infused varieties. Each 16oz can features the same base of Citra and Amarillo hops with limestone-filtered Kentucky water, delivering notes of grapefruit and orange peel. The functional THC beverage option contains 5mg of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC, perfect for those seeking a standard dose experience without the calories or alcohol.

Other Products by Kentucky Hop Water

Kentucky Hop Water currently focuses exclusively on their hop water beverage line. No other product categories such as gummies, vapes, or edibles have been introduced under the Kentucky Hop Water brand as of 2025. The company maintains a streamlined product portfolio centered on their signature hop-infused sparkling waters.

Background

Kentucky Hop Water was founded by Michael Moeller, a craft beer industry veteran who spent years promoting hundreds of beverage brands throughout his marketing career before deciding to launch his own. Initially introduced in October 2024, Moeller developed the product in his home kitchen using a kegerator typically intended for home brewing, experimenting with various formulations for about a year before going to market. The brand partnered with Against the Grain Brewery for production and Beer House Distributors for retail distribution across Kentucky. Less than a year after launching the flagship non-alcoholic hop water, the company expanded into the THC category in September 2025, drawing on Kentucky's deep historical ties to hemp production. Moeller emphasized that in the 1800s, Kentucky was the leading hemp producer in the United States, accounting for over 90% of the national supply, making the THC expansion a natural evolution that honors the state's agricultural heritage. The launch positioned Kentucky Hop Water as the Commonwealth's first canned hop water, continuing Kentucky's proud tradition of innovation in beverages from bourbon to craft beer and now functional cannabis drinks.

Quick Facts About Kentucky Hop Water

Values

• Simplicity: No juices, sweeteners, or "natural flavors" added - just pure hop flavor from real Citra and Amarillo hops
• Kentucky Heritage: Proudly using limestone-filtered Kentucky water and honoring the state's historical hemp production legacy
• Zero Compromise: Zero alcohol, zero calories, zero shortcuts in product development - maintaining the highest quality standards

Reviews

As a recently launched brand with the original debuting in October 2024 and the THC version in September 2025, Kentucky Hop Water has limited consumer reviews available. Early feedback has been positive, with one customer praising the product's ability to satisfy cravings without guilt. The reviewer specifically highlighted the hoppy and citrus flavors that "hit the spot" and even complimented the pleasant aroma, suggesting they'd like an air freshener version. Marketing materials emphasize the hop-forward character with notes of grapefruit and orange peel, positioning the product as a refreshing alternative for those seeking bold flavors without alcohol or calories.

• "Satisfying without the guilt—it knocked out my craving!"
• "An ice cold Kentucky Hop Water gave me the hoppy and citrus flavor that hit the spot. It also smelled great!"

Promotions & Coupon Codes

Kentucky Hop Water offers a Subscribe & Save option with a 5% discount on recurring orders. Free shipping is available on online orders. Louisville area customers can take advantage of free local delivery within 24-48 hours to eligible ZIP codes or free pickup at Against the Grain Brewery & Public House.

Where to Buy Kentucky Hop Water

Kentucky Hop Water products are available for purchase online at KentuckyHopWater.com with nationwide shipping (adult signature required for THC products). Throughout Kentucky, products are distributed to retail stores via Beer House Distributors partnership. Louisville area customers have additional convenience options including free local delivery to eligible ZIP codes inside the Watterson and free pickup at Against the Grain Brewery & Public House (401 E Main St, Louisville, KY 40202). The non-THC Original version is also available on Amazon. Products are sold in various pack sizes including 4-packs, 8-packs, 12-packs, and full cases (24 cans). Looking for similar hop-forward THC beverages? Browse our curated selection of functional cannabis drinks from verified retailers at buythcdrinks.com.

Quality & Testing

Kentucky Hop Water products comply with federal limits under the 2018 Farm Bill, containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis, making them eligible for online and retail sale without dispensary access. The THC-infused version includes clear safety warnings about impairment and age restrictions, requiring consumers to be 21+ with ID verification at delivery and pickup. All products carry the Kentucky Proud designation, indicating adherence to state quality standards. While specific COA documentation was not publicly available during research, the brand emphasizes its commitment to quality through partnerships with established production facilities like Against the Grain Brewery. THC beverages may cause intoxication; do not drive or operate machinery.

Ingredients

Kentucky Hop Water maintains a minimal ingredient philosophy that sets it apart in the crowded beverage market. The base formula consists of only limestone-filtered Kentucky water (the same mineral-rich source that made Kentucky bourbon famous), real Citra and Amarillo hops for bright citrusy and floral notes, and carbonation. The THC-infused version adds hemp-derived Delta-9 THC at 5mg per 16oz can. Notably absent are any juices, sweeteners, or "natural flavors" - a deliberate choice to let the hops shine on their own. All varieties are alcohol-free, calorie-free, carb-free, sugar-free, caffeine-free, and gluten-free, making them suitable for various dietary preferences and restrictions.

Recalls or Safety Issues

No recalls or regulatory actions reported as of 2025.

Events

No recent consumer events reported.

PR & Media

Kentucky Hop Water has garnered significant media attention since its initial launch in October 2024 and subsequent THC expansion in September 2025. Major industry publications including Brewbound and BevNET covered the brand's debut, highlighting its position as Kentucky's first canned hop water and its role in filling a gap in the non-alcoholic beverage market. Local media outlets like LEO Weekly and the Louisville Courier Journal featured the brand's expansion into THC beverages, emphasizing the connection to Kentucky's historical hemp production legacy. PorchDrinking praised the brand for capitalizing on the growing popularity of hop waters as a bright, refreshing non-alcoholic alternative to craft beer. Beer House Distributors' Assistant General Manager Justin Wellington noted the brand's potential to resonate with consumers seeking a refreshing, locally made alternative. The launch timing proved strategic, as Michael Moeller's surprise announcement caught even his friends and the local craft beer community off guard, generating organic buzz and word-of-mouth marketing throughout the Commonwealth.

Social Media

Company Details

Related THC Beverage Brands

Consumers interested in Kentucky Hop Water often also consider HOP WTR, Lagunitas Hi-Fi Hops, and Sierra Nevada Hop Splash for similar hop-forward THC and non-alcoholic options. These brands share a focus on real hop flavors and functional benefits without the alcohol. Browse our full selection of functional THC beverages to compare products side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky Hop Water

How much THC is in Kentucky Hop Water products?

Kentucky Hop Water offers both THC and non-THC options. The THC-Infused version contains 5mg of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC per 16oz can, which falls into the standard dosage range suitable for most consumers. The Original Kentucky Hop Water contains no THC, making it a great option for those who want the hop flavor without any psychoactive effects. Both versions maintain zero calories and zero sugar while delivering the same hop-forward taste profile.

What do Kentucky Hop Water beverages taste like?

Kentucky Hop Water features bright, citrusy notes from Citra and Amarillo hops, with distinct flavors of grapefruit and orange peel. Unlike many flavored seltzers, these beverages contain no juices, sweeteners, or "natural flavors" - the taste comes entirely from real hops and limestone-filtered Kentucky water. Customers describe the flavor as hoppy and refreshing, with one reviewer specifically praising how the citrus flavors "hit the spot" and noting the pleasant aroma.

How long do effects take to kick in?

While Kentucky Hop Water hasn't published specific onset time claims, hemp-derived Delta-9 THC beverages typically begin working within 15-45 minutes of consumption. The 5mg dose in each can provides what the brand describes as a "light functional effect" suitable for relaxation without overwhelming intensity. As with all THC products, effects may vary based on individual tolerance, metabolism, and whether you've eaten recently.

Are Kentucky Hop Water products legal?

Yes, Kentucky Hop Water's THC products are federally compliant under the 2018 Farm Bill, containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis. This allows them to be sold online and shipped nationwide (with adult signature required) without needing dispensary access. However, hemp regulations vary by state, so consumers should verify their local laws before purchasing.

What makes Kentucky Hop Water unique?

Kentucky Hop Water stands out as Kentucky's first canned hop water, using the same limestone-filtered water that made Kentucky bourbon famous. The brand honors the state's historical hemp heritage - Kentucky produced over 90% of America's hemp supply in the 1800s. With their simple ingredient list and commitment to "zero shortcuts," they offer a uniquely Kentucky take on the hop water trend that emerged from founder Michael Moeller's home kitchen experiments.

Last Updated

Last Updated: October 1, 2025

Sources

• Kentucky Hop Water — 2025-10-01 — Kentucky Hop Water
• Kentucky Hop Water Shop — 2025-10-01 — Kentucky Hop Water
• Kentucky Hop Water News — 2025-09-23 — Kentucky Hop Water
• LEO Weekly — 2025-09-23 — Caleb Stultz
• PorchDrinking — 2025-01-22 — Jay C. Hansen
• Brewbound — 2024-10-17 — Brewbound
• BevNET — 2024-10-17 — BevNET
• Yahoo/Louisville Courier Journal — 2024-10-22 — Louisville Courier Journal
• Facebook — n.d. — Kentucky Hop Water