IN REVIEW: While this cannabis companion certainly goes well with a solo sunset stroll, the social qualities of Cann’s Grapefruit Rosemary Lite Tonic make it a perfect pairing for damn near anything. Packing in the same flavor and approachable effects of its full-bodied buds, this low-calorie Cann is truly a guilt-free go-to. So keep a six pack handy for a sustained solo session full of good vibes, or get the whole crew lifted and loving life the next time you find yourselves lounging at the beach. 

You don't need a degree in graphic design to immediately appreciate the inviting, and even inspiring, packaging that houses Cann’s Grapefruit Rosemary Lite Social Tonic. From the first time I spotted Cann’s products in my local dispensary, I found myself drawn to its classy yet playful, vibrant yet calming, gorgeous exterior. 

The design features a mellow, airy gradient with lively cerulean typography and iconography hinting at the cheerful citrus fizzies hiding within. There’s one simple linework icon that always catches my eye when I see this particular Cann drink, and it’s what I believe to be a citrus slice. However, it reminds me of a Ferris wheel, which feels like the perfect metaphor for this drink—playful, but delightfully low-key and relaxing. Overall, the can design carefully walks a line of light-hearted fun and subdued simplicity—much like the beverage itself.

It was the Friday evening that kicked off my holiday break, and I found myself (once again) mesmerized by Canns gorgeous design. But unlike previous ponderings, this time I had the pleasure of cracking it open and giving it a go. The sun was setting, and I was about to go for an early evening stroll with my boyfriend. The air had a slight wintertime crispness, as crisp as Southern California air gets anyway, and the setting sun left our neighborhood awash in a lovely pink glow slowly transitioning into the cool tones of night. The exterior of our home almost perfectly matched the exterior of the can, sans delightful illustrations.

“The tiny bursting bubbles that fill each sip offer an addictive tongue tingle.”

Opening the can, don’t expect to be greeted by a wave of aromatics. Instead, you’ll find a light twinkling scent of rosemary and citrus. Subtle as the scent was, it was still notably pleasant and instantly began to activate my tastebuds, tantalized by the incoming herbal libation. Flavor-wise, this tonic lives up to its can’s promise—rich, rosemary essence danced across my tongue, while the citrusy grapefruit flavor gave my tastebuds a delicious, sweet jolt. Beyond the citrus-herbal cacophony, this drink also delivered a perfect ratio of effervescence. The tiny bursting bubbles that fill each sip offer an addictive tongue tingle, without ever veering into the burn of many mainstream sodas and tonics. It’s fun to drink, yet smooth to swallow.

It’s worth noting here that I tried the “Lite” version of the social tonic, which while quite similar to the classic, boasts the added bonus of only 9 calories (instead of 35), and no added sugar. I was really impressed and truly delighted at how naturally sweet it tasted without any added sugars. If you’re like me, and don’t have a particularly strong penchant for sugary, artificial candies, but still enjoy a dose of sweetness here and there, the Lite option is 1000% the way to go. It’s just sweet enough, without any guilt or upset tummies.

The high took a little while to kick in for me, clocking in at about 45 minutes, but my body tends to be slow to react to edibles and drinkables. We were still out for our evening stroll when I finally felt it, but we were nearing the end, so I mostly hung out at home taking in the quiet evening as the high unfolded. I felt a gentle buzziness, dare I say bubbliness, in both my mind and body. I definitely see why they’ve titled this product as a “Social Tonic,” as I felt friendly and comfortably outgoing. Much like the packaging, and the drink itself, the vibe of the high was light and airy, pleasant and playful, and just a bit soothing and relaxing.

This would be such a great companion for a day at the beach with friends. Between the satisfying intake experience and the subtle but pleasant high, it’s easy to see how these tonics are super sessionable. I wish I’d had a few more on hand, and started a wee bit earlier to soak up some sun rays as I sipped. Or, from another perspective, if you’re a bit newer to edibles and drinkables, this is an excellent introduction that’ll allow you to stay grounded enough while still enjoying your bubbly foray into these unique effects.

“While I do think this is a stellar drink option for a social outing, it still manages to make the most of a little quiet me-time and mind wandering.”

Evening fell deeper, drenching my neighborhood in indigo, and I found myself just kicking back and taking it in. Not in that lazy-lump, couch-potato sort of way I often encounter with a relaxation-focused high, but more in a soft, mellow, centered sort of way. I thoroughly enjoyed calmly watching the world go by my corner-facing window, occasionally losing myself in thought as I made up stories about each passerby. So, while I do think this is a stellar drink option for a social outing, it still manages to make the most of a little quiet me-time and mind wandering.

About an hour later, the high waned, and I found myself again wishing I had more than one can on hand. If you have a higher tolerance, you’ll likely want to knock back a few to really “feel it,” or at minimum, session a few to keep the good vibes going. But whether you’re drinking just one for a subdued solo escape, or cheersing a few with friends, Cann’s Grapefruit Rosemary Lite Social Tonic is sure to deliver a delightfully bubbly buzz.