The Cannabis Cup, an annual event founded by High Times magazine, has been a barometer for the best strains, products, and innovations in the cannabis industry for decades. Over the past ten years, the Cannabis Cup has highlighted an impressive array of cannabis cultivars, each showcasing advancements in cultivation, breeding, and product development. Below, we look into the last decade of Cannabis Cup winners, celebrating the strains that have stood out in a very competitive field.
2014: Cookies and Cream
Breeder: Exotic Genetix
Type: Hybrid (50/50)
THC: 20-26%
Flavor: Sweet, vanilla, earthy
Cookies and Cream took the top prize in 2014 with its balanced hybrid effects and delightful flavor profile. This strain is a cross between Starfighter and a mystery Girl Scout Cookies phenotype. Known for its sweet, vanilla-like flavor with hints of earthiness, Cookies and Cream offers a euphoric and relaxing high. It quickly became popular for its ability to melt away stress while keeping the mind clear and engaged.
2015: Tangie
Breeder: DNA Genetics
Type: Sativa
THC: 19-22%
Flavor: Citrus, orange, sweet
Tangie, a modern revival of the classic Tangerine Dream, dominated the 2015 Cannabis Cup. Its strong citrus aroma and flavor, reminiscent of freshly peeled tangerines, set it apart from the competition. Tangie’s uplifting and energetic effects make it a perfect daytime strain, providing a burst of creativity and happiness. This sativa has remained a favorite for those seeking a motivational high without overwhelming sedation.
2016: Strawberry Banana
Breeder: DNA Genetics in collaboration with Serious Seeds
Type: Hybrid (Indica-dominant)
THC: 22-26%
Flavor: Sweet, fruity, banana
In 2016, Strawberry Banana emerged as the standout strain, captivating judges with its sweet and fruity flavor profile. This hybrid strain is a cross between Banana Kush and the Strawberry phenotype of Bubble Gum. Known for its high THC content and delicious taste, Strawberry Banana offers a calming, euphoric high that enhances mood and creativity. It’s particularly favored for its ability to deliver potent effects without causing excessive sedation.
2017: Lemon Kush
Breeder: Alien Genetics
Type: Hybrid (Indica-dominant)
THC: 17-26%
Flavor: Citrus, lemon, earthy
Lemon Kush won the hearts of judges in 2017 with its refreshing lemon flavor and potent effects. This strain is a hybrid, typically a cross between Lemon Joy and Master Kush, though variations exist. Known for its strong citrus aroma and smooth smoke, Lemon Kush provides a balanced high that relaxes the body while keeping the mind clear and focused. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to alleviate stress and anxiety without feeling overly sedated.
2018: Gorilla Glue #4 (GG4)
Breeder: GG Strains
Type: Hybrid (50/50)
THC: 25-30%
Flavor: Earthy, pine, diesel
Gorilla Glue #4, commonly known as GG4, clinched the top spot in 2018 with its powerful effects and robust flavor profile. This strain, a cross between Chem’s Sister, Sour Dubb, and Chocolate Diesel, is known for its high THC content and sticky, resinous buds. GG4 delivers a potent high that starts with a euphoric rush, followed by deep relaxation and couch-lock. Its earthy, pine, and diesel flavors make it a favorite among connoisseurs seeking a strong and memorable experience.
2019: Wedding Cake
Breeder: Seed Junky Genetics
Type: Hybrid (Indica-dominant)
THC: 25-27%
Flavor: Sweet, vanilla, earthy
Wedding Cake, also known as Pink Cookies, topped the charts in 2019. A cross between Cherry Pie and Girl Scout Cookies, this strain is celebrated for its sweet and tangy flavor profile with undertones of vanilla and earth. Wedding Cake provides a balanced high that combines uplifting cerebral effects with relaxing body effects. It’s particularly popular for social gatherings and creative endeavors, offering a high that’s both relaxing and stimulating.
2020: Runtz
Breeder: Cookies Fam and Runtz
Type: Hybrid (50/50)
THC: 19-29%
Flavor: Sweet, fruity, tropical
Runtz took the cannabis world by storm in 2020 with its unique and delectable flavor. A balanced hybrid, Runtz is a cross between Zkittlez and Gelato. It’s known for its sweet, candy-like flavor and colorful, resin-coated buds. The high from Runtz is euphoric and uplifting, often leading to fits of laughter and a relaxed state of mind. Its balanced effects make it suitable for both day and night use, depending on the dose.
2021: MAC (Miracle Alien Cookies)
Breeder: Capulator
Type: Hybrid (50/50)
THC: 20-24%
Flavor: Citrus, earthy, floral
MAC, or Miracle Alien Cookies, won the top prize in 2021, impressing judges with its unique genetics and potent effects. A cross between Alien Cookies, Starfighter, and a Columbian strain, MAC is known for its dense, frosty buds and citrusy, earthy flavor. The high is balanced, providing both a euphoric cerebral effect and a relaxing body high. MAC is popular for its versatility, suitable for a variety of activities from creative projects to unwinding after a long day.
2022: Jealousy
Breeder: Seed Junky Genetics
Type: Hybrid (Indica-dominant)
THC: 25-30%
Flavor: Sweet, diesel, earthy
Jealousy, a potent hybrid from Seed Junky Genetics, took the top honor in 2022. This strain is a cross between Gelato 41 and Sherbet, known for its high THC content and unique flavor profile. The taste combines sweet and diesel notes with earthy undertones, providing a rich and satisfying experience. Jealousy offers a powerful high that begins with a euphoric rush and transitions into deep relaxation, making it ideal for evening use.
2023: Peanut Butter Breath
Breeder: ThugPug Genetics
Type: Hybrid (Indica-dominant)
THC: 18-28%
Flavor: Nutty, earthy, herbal
Peanut Butter Breath captured the 2023 Cannabis Cup with its distinctive nutty flavor and balanced effects. A cross between Do-Si-Dos and Mendo Breath, this strain is known for its rich, earthy taste with hints of herbal and nutty flavors. The high is calming and relaxing, perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Peanut Butter Breath is praised for its ability to melt away stress and tension while providing a euphoric mental state.
Conclusion
The last decade of Cannabis Cup winners showcases the incredible diversity and innovation within the cannabis industry. From the sweet and fruity profiles of strains like Strawberry Banana and Runtz to the potent and earthy flavors of GG4 and Peanut Butter Breath, these winners highlight the evolution of cannabis breeding and cultivation. Each strain offers unique effects and flavors, catering to a wide range of preferences and needs. As the industry continues to grow and evolve, the Cannabis Cup remains a key event for discovering and celebrating the best in cannabis. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, these award-winning strains provide a glimpse into the finest that the cannabis world has to offer.
