Based on what you describe, the sour or unpleasant smell usually indicates that the plant material began to break down due to excess moisture, rather than a genetic issue with the plant. When several plants are dried together and still retain a lot of internal water, bacterial fermentation processes or early mold development can occur, which are often detected first by smell, even before any visible signs appear. This can happen even if temperature and humidity seem “correct,” especially if some plants were greener or denser than others at harvest time. If the smell is not the typical one and comes across as acidic, moldy, or rotten, it generally means the material is no longer safe to use. Carefully check the inside of the flower to see if there are signs of botrytis or any other fungus.