In the cannabis industry, it’s crucial to stay attuned to the latest trends and uncover those exceptional strains recognized at the prestigious Cannabis Cup 2023. Well, guess what? The year 2023 brought a whirlwind of excitement, with numerous remarkable weed cups taking place across the United States. These events were far from ordinary gatherings; they resembled the cannabis world’s equivalent of the Oscars, shining a spotlight on the absolute best.
These contests are not just about boasting; they mirror the progress of the cannabis industry. They provide a platform for growers to showcase their expertise, where innovative products shine, and where consumers get a glimpse of what’s new and exhilarating. So, get ready, folks! We’re about to delve into some of the most extraordinary cannabis strains and products that created waves at the 2023 Cannabis Cup.
California
SoCal’s High Times Cannabis Cup
SoCal’s High Times Cannabis Cup 2023, one of California’s most esteemed cannabis competitions, attracted an impressive array of entries this year. Fig Farms, a renowned cultivator, clinched the top spot with their Blue Face strain, earning the title of Best Indica Flower. Known for its calming effects and distinctive aroma, Blue Face has earned a devoted following among cannabis enthusiasts. Fig Farms also impressed the judges with their Animal Face strain, which was crowned Best Hybrid Flower. This hybrid offers a harmonious blend of indica and sativa genetics, delivering a well-balanced experience.
In the fiercely competitive sativa category, Maven Genetics shone with their Orange Bellini strain. This zesty delight provides consumers with a burst of energy and creativity, making it a top choice for those in search of an uplifting experience. SoCal’s High Times Cannabis Cup represents the pinnacle of cannabis cultivation and serves as an invaluable resource for consumers seeking the finest strains in California.
Ego Clash Category
The Ego Clash category at the competition showcased distinctive and exotic strains that pushed the boundaries of cannabis cultivation. Top Shelf Cultivation’s Whoa Si Whoa truly distinguished itself with its remarkable flavors and effects. This strain dares to challenge conventional norms and leaves an indelible mark on those who experience it. Anudai Farms also left a notable impression with their Eddy’s Lemons strain, delivering a delightful burst of citrus goodness with each puff. These strains exemplify the creativity and innovation thriving within California’s cannabis community.
The Farmers’ Cup
The Farmers’ Cup, an event cherished by cannabis enthusiasts, declared Orange Banana by Wonderbrett as the champion. This strain not only delights the taste buds but also showcases the expertise of its cultivators. With an impeccable balance of flavor and potency, Orange Banana is a distinguished indica deserving of its title. Sense Cannabis also earned acknowledgment for their Pink Certz strain, which melds distinct flavors with a calming high. These victors at The Farmers’ Cup epitomize the commitment and skill of California’s cannabis growers.
California remains at the forefront of cannabis cultivation and innovation, with its competition victors establishing a high standard for the entire industry. Whether you seek relaxation, inspiration, or a distinctive experience, the strains recognized at these competitions offer a wide range of choices for cannabis enthusiasts.
Colorado
Denver’s Connoisseur Cup
The Connoisseur Cup in Denver is an annual event that highlights the finest strains from Colorado’s thriving cannabis community. In 2023, the competition showcased an impressive roster, featuring both perennial favorites and exciting newcomers. Among the victors, Super Lemon Haze emerged as a crowd-pleaser. This sativa-dominant strain is adored for its zesty lemon flavor and invigorating effects, making it a popular choice for those seeking a daytime boost of energy and creativity. Gelato, another standout, is renowned for its sweet and creamy taste, offering a delightful option for those with a sweet tooth. Animal Face Mints, with its unique flavor blend and a touch of mint, contributed to the rich tapestry of cannabis options in Colorado.
THC Classic
The THC Classic in Colorado is a competition dedicated to THC potency, and in 2023, Golden Leaf made an impressive impression. Lemonhead Delight, Black Maple #22, and Candy Fumez, all hailing from Golden Leaf, gained recognition for their high THC levels and exceptional quality. Lemonhead Delight, as its name implies, delivers a burst of citrusy delight with every inhale, paired with a potent high that’s certain to please even the most experienced cannabis aficionado. Black Maple #22, on the other hand, brings a distinctive blend of flavors and a hefty THC punch, making it a prime choice for those seeking an intense experience. Candy Fumez, with its sweet and sugary notes, offers a delightful and euphoric journey for consumers.
Colorado’s cannabis competitions not only showcase the state’s rich cannabis heritage but also underscore the dedication to producing top-notch strains that cater to a wide range of preferences and needs. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or new to the world of cannabis, these champions have something special for everyone.
Oregon
Oregon Growers Cup
The Growers Cup in Oregon is a celebration of the state’s diverse cannabis cultivation methods, and the 2023 edition lived up to expectations. This competition honored outstanding strains grown in various environments, ranging from outdoor to indoor to greenhouse. Alter Farms’ Strawberry Fizz, an outdoor-grown strain, won hearts with its fruity aroma and natural charm. The essence of the outdoors is beautifully preserved in this strain, making it a favorite among those who cherish the connection between cannabis and nature. Artisan Grown’s Candy Rain, a top winner in the indoor category, delivers a premium cannabis experience thanks to its meticulous cultivation. Its pristine buds and rich flavors make it a top choice for those who value quality. Cannassentials’ Hash Burger, the winner in the greenhouse category, combines the best of both worlds. It thrives in a controlled environment while retaining the unique characteristics of outdoor cultivation. This strain exemplifies the innovation present in Oregon’s cannabis industry, where traditional and modern techniques seamlessly blend.
Oregon Leaf Bowl
The Oregon Leaf Bowl serves as another platform for recognizing the finest cannabis strains in the state. In 2023, strains like Trop Cherry and Ice Cream Cake by WM Ranch took center stage with their exceptional qualities. Trop Cherry, as its name implies, delivers a tropical fruit explosion with every inhalation, making it a delightful choice for those who favor fruity strains. Ice Cream Cake, on the other hand, provides a creamy and sweet experience reminiscent of its dessert namesake. Juicy Fruit by Left Coast Standard also earned accolades for its refreshing and fruity profile, highlighting the diversity of cannabis offerings in Oregon.
Oregon’s cannabis competitions underscore the significance of terroir and cultivation methods in producing distinctive and high-quality strains. Whether you appreciate the purity of outdoor cultivation, the precision of indoor growing, or the versatility of greenhouse production, Oregon offers something extraordinary for everyone.
Arizona
Errl Cups
Amidst the desert landscape, Arizona’s cannabis community was abuzz with excitement at the Errl Cups in 2023. This competition unveiled some extraordinary strains that truly captured the spirit of the region. Aeritz’s Peanut Butter Mintz emerged as a victor, offering a unique fusion of nutty flavors and minty undertones. This sativa strain is perfect for those in search of a refreshing and invigorating experience. Alien Labs’ Biskante, a standout in the indica category, provides a potent and soothing high, making it an excellent choice for unwinding after a long day. Genesis Bioceuticals’ Lemon Meringue, celebrated for its tantalizing citrus flavors, delivered a burst of energy and creativity that resonated with both judges and consumers. Furthermore, Super Boof by Mohave Cannabis Co left a lasting impression with its captivating aroma and effects. Arizona’s cannabis enthusiasts have access to an impressive variety of strains that cater to their diverse needs and preferences.
New York/Northeast
New York Growers Cup
The New York Growers Cup highlighted the increasing influence of the cannabis industry in the Northeastern United States. The competition showcased a diverse mix of strains that reflected the region’s rich cannabis culture. Notable varieties like Trop Cherry Gas and Tropical Trufflez in the Sweet category offered a delightful fusion of fruity and exotic flavors. These strains are perfect for those seeking a sensory journey with each inhalation. The Gas category saw the emergence of a Sherb x Biscotti x Animal Mints blend, combining the best of these strains to create a truly unique and flavorful experience. Green Haze, recognized for its haze characteristics, provided a cerebral high that sparked creativity and introspection. Sour Royale, as its name suggests, delivered a tangy and sour profile that added a refreshing twist to the competition. Kaboom, celebrated as the most Exotic, pushed the boundaries of flavor and effects, appealing to adventurous cannabis connoisseurs. The New York Growers Cup illustrated the evolving cannabis landscape in the Northeast, offering a wide range of strains that cater to diverse tastes.
The Zalympix
The Zalympix event on the East Coast showcased the innovation and creativity that define the region’s cannabis industry. Gotti’s Zkittles x Zoap emerged as the best in show, captivating judges with its unique blend of genetics and flavors. This strain reflects the commitment of East Coast cultivators to push boundaries and explore new possibilities. Blue Lobster by Maine Trees made a splash by winning in multiple categories, underscoring the quality and variety of strains cultivated in the Northeast. The Zalympix serves as a platform for East Coast cannabis enthusiasts to explore the cutting-edge strains and products developed in their region.
New Mexico
Growers Circle
New Mexico’s Growers Circle garnered acclaim for its outstanding strains in 2023. Varieties like Homage and Trop Cherries provided consumers with a taste of the region’s unique terroir and cultivation techniques. These strains stand as a testament to the dedication of New Mexico’s cannabis growers in delivering top-notch products. Seed Junky, a prominent player in the cannabis industry, achieved multiple top-three rankings with Pineapple Fruz and Purple Push Pop, showcasing the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation. These strains have become sought-after choices among cannabis enthusiasts. New Mexico’s cannabis scene continues to thrive, offering consumers a diverse array of strains to explore and savor.
