TWO HARBORS, MN — As the calendar turns to 2026, the landscape of the North Shore’s craft beverage industry is undergoing a historic shift. Castle Danger Brewery, an institution that has defined Lake Superior’s brewing culture since 2011, has officially announced its most ambitious expansion to date: the launch of Trailblazer. This new premium product line introduces THC-infused refreshers and gummies into the brewery’s permanent portfolio, signaling a bold move into the rapidly growing cannabis-derived beverage market.
The announcement comes at a pivotal time for the beverage industry, as consumer preferences shift toward “lifestyle” drinks and non-alcoholic alternatives. By entering the THC space, Castle Danger is not merely following a trend but is instead translating its decade-long reputation for quality into a new medium. The Trailblazer line is specifically crafted for what the brewery calls “modern explorers”—individuals who seek the social and relaxing benefits of an adult beverage without the alcohol.
A Tribute to North Shore Traditions
What sets Trailblazer apart from other THC products on the market is its deep-rootedness in local culture. The debut flavors are a direct homage to the North Shore’s iconic “pie culture.” For decades, travelers making the scenic trek up Highway 61 have considered stops at roadside bakeries and cozy cafés for a slice of pie to be an essential part of the experience.
Trailblazer launches with two distinct pie-inspired flavors, capturing the essence of these traditional dessert treats in a crisp, refreshing beverage and a portable gummy format.
“From day one, we wanted Trailblazer to reflect both the North Shore and the quality our customers have come to know and love,” said Andrea Arabanos, Director of Sales & Marketing at Castle Danger Brewery. “The North Shore has a way of turning simple moments into memorable ones, and pie is part of that experience. Our brewery team did a great job of creating these flavors as our tribute to that tradition, reimagined in a refreshing, modern way.”
Innovation Through Quality and Precision
The brewery’s transition into THC products was built on a foundation of technical excellence. Recognizing that consistency is the most critical factor for consumers in the hempderived market, Castle Danger has implemented rigorous standards for its Trailblazer line.
Each refresher and gummy is crafted with precisely dosed THC to ensure a balanced and predictable experience. This focus on “thoughtful dosing” is intended to make the products approachable for newcomers while providing the reliability that seasoned enthusiasts demand. The refreshers are designed to be light and easy-drinking, making them ideal for social settings, while the gummies offer a convenient, edible option for those embarking on outdoor adventures like hiking the Superior Hiking Trail or exploring the Boundary Waters.
Looking Ahead: The 2026 Launch
Castle Danger Brewery is preparing for a full-scale rollout as it enters its fifteenth year of operation. The Trailblazer Refreshers and Gummies are scheduled to make their official debut at the brewery’s Two Harbors taproom in January 2026. Following the initial taproom release, the products will begin appearing at select retail locations across Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and southeast North Dakota, joining the brewery’s established distribution network.
To commemorate the launch, the brewery is inviting the public to a Trailblazer Release Party on January 2, 2026. Held at their lakeside taproom in downtown Two Harbors, the event will serve as a celebration of the brewery’s evolution. Attendees can expect:
Live Experiences: A dedicated Trailblazer photo booth and exclusive giveaways.
Culinary Pairings: A special food pop-up hosted by the local favorite, Rainy Rose Food Trailer.
First Tastes: The first opportunity to purchase and experience the pie-inspired THC line in person.
A Legacy Reimagined
Since its founding in 2011, Castle Danger Brewery has grown from a small startup into a regional powerhouse, anchored by its 30-bbl system and a taproom overlooking Lake Superior. The introduction of Trailblazer represents a commitment to innovation that ensures the brewery remains a central part of the Minnesota experience for years to come.
As the brewery looks toward the future, it continues to prove that while some ingredients may be added—from hops and barley to hemp-derived THC—the commitment to the spirit of the North Shore remains unshakable.
Castle Danger products are available in bars, restaurants, and liquor stores across Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and southeast North Dakota.
For more information regarding the Trailblazer launch, product availability, or event details, please visit the Castle Danger Brewery website castledangerbrewery.com or follow Castle Danger Brewery on Facebook and Instagram.
