Cannabis Cup: Best Strains, Edibles, And Concentrates

Top-selling seed companies put their best cannabis strains into a head-to-head battle every year on the High Times Cannabis Cup. It's the best way to tell if a strain is really good or not over nearly four decades. 

So, it is not surprising that the strains that win are among the best money can buy. Therefore, when you try stuff like this year's winner, Double OG Chem, or some old Skunk #1, you will not be disappointed.

But there are a few strains, edibles, and concentrates that stand out for us. The flavors, the high, the experience — everything about these cannabis strains is extraordinary. What are they? Read on to know more. 

1. Skunk #1: Cannabis Cup Winner 1988

Skunk #1 is a legendary cannabis strain that has won accolades like the High Times Cannabis Cup (Cultivator's Choice) in 1988 and the AMEC Cup in 2009 for the Best Overall Strain. With a rich history that dates back five decades, Skunk $1 is regarded as one of the first and finest hybrids in contemporary cannabis breeding.

The strain was bred in Holland by crossing Afghan Indica strains with Columbian Gold and Acapulco Gold sativas. As a result, Skunk #1 maintains a global genetic lineage and is known for its potent Indica-leaning high. The strain has a pungent flavor profile and a potent high that makes it so popular. 

This strain delights your taste buds with its skunky and sour-earthy flavor, which starts spicy and evolves into herbal, sweet, and sour notes. The smell is equally pungent and skunky and is bound to leave an impression. 

Skunk #1 contains 17% THC, and while it may not be the most potent strain, it's potent enough for most people. It produces a very relaxing high, which makes it an excellent stress reliever. It may also improve appetite and help with depression, but be warned, it will leave your mouth dry. 

And growing this strain is equally rewarding. It takes up to nine weeks to flower indoors and it matures by mid-October in an outdoor environment. Plus, it is naturally resistant to mold and mildew, but it still requires some attention during the flowering stage. It also grows well in sunlight, which is why this oldie is still a cherished cannabis strain across the world 

2. Northern Lights #5: Cannabis Cup Winner 1990

Northern Lights #5 is yet another legendary cannabis strain that has gained fame for being one of the best, if not the best, Indica strains in the world. It has won several accolades, including the 1990 Cannabis Cup and five others. 

The strain features genetics from Afghan and Thai strains and it is known for its calming effects. The strain is also excellent for indoor cultivation thanks to its small stature, sparse leaves, quick flowering time, and plenty of resin production. 

The origin of the strain is a mystery, but it is often reported that it was given to Neville's Haze as a clone, which served as a mother to various crosses with other strains. 

Today, it's hard to find its purest form since most breeders offer their versions of NL#5. 

Fun fact: the strain grew in popularity thanks to its discreet odor during the flowering stage. Hence, '90s growers often preferred this strain so they could keep their gardens hidden and safe from cops. Today, growers prefer this plant for its gorgeous appeal.

The strain features a pleasantly warm and green aroma with a slight pungent undertaste. And it produces a classic stoned high, which is relaxing and cheerful. It's a terrific strain for unwinding after a long day. And with a THC content of 26%, the high is potent and lasts a while. 

Do note that despite its older lineage, the strain has a leaf-to-calyx ratio that's higher than others. As a result, they are prone to growing slightly larfy buds. It's hard to beat the influence this strain has left on cannabis. It's no wonder that this strain has become a household-name strain and is even mentioned in various movies and popular songs: an absolute legend. 

3. White Widow: Cannabis Cup Winner 1995 

White Widow was first introduced in 1994 and quickly became a sensation in Amsterdam coffee shops, and over time, it has garnered a following and many awards along the way. This strain comes from Dutch veterans, Green House Seeds, and is a cross between a Brazilian Indica and South Indian Sativa landrace. 

White Widow is known for its potent high and excellent resin production, and over the years, it has played a pivotal role in cannabis breeding. It has contributed to legendary hybrids like White Russian and The White. 

At first sight, White Widow is a chunky plant with conical buds that have a loose and fluffy texture. And, as you can guess, the buds are covered in resin throughout, hence the name White Widow. 

The flavor and aroma profile is sharp and ammonia-like with notes of earth and pine, and the aroma is mostly earthy and pungent aroma when you light it. It may not be so appealing at first, but wait till it grows on you. 

On average, White Widow contains THC of up to 20%, producing an energetic and euphoric high that can come in handy in various circumstances. You can use it to relieve your pain, nausea, or appetite loss. You can also use it to make yourself more active or ready for social activities — it will lift your mood, improve perception, and increase focus. 

Fortunately, White Widow is a viable indoor and outdoor strain, and it prefers a neutral Mediterranean climate. Plus, it is fairly resistant to mold. And since the plant is bushy and wide, it rarely crosses the 2-meter mark, and flowering lasts for nine weeks. 

4. Super Silver Haze: Cannabis Cup Winner 1998

We can't talk about Cannabis Cup Winners without mentioning the most influential of all, Super Silver Haze. This strain dominated the Cannabis Cup scene from 1997 to 1999, earning the prestigious High Times Cup thrice in a row. No wonder it is often revered as one of the best Sativa-dominant hybrids out there. 

The strain was bred by Shantibaba and Neville, and the strain's development began in the early '90s at Greenhouse Seeds. The strain is half Original Haze, a quarter Northern Lights #5, and a quarter Skunk #1. 

Over the years, this strain has gained a following in both medicinal and recreational scenes worldwide. It features a unique flavor profile of spice, skunk, and citrus, and offers a unique smoking experience that leaves a subtle lemon taste in your mouth.

Smoke it and you'll be greeted with a creative and energetic high, which will make you feel motivated. It still lacks focus, but it can be an effective daytime medication for fatigue, mood disorders, migraines, and nausea. 

As the high progresses, it soothes the body, which can even alleviate chronic pain and aches. You may also experience heightened sensory perception, so don't be alarmed if the colors look bright and the sounds seem sharp. 

If you want to grow Super Silver Haze, it is recommended that you grow it in a hydroponic setup. It can be grown in soil or outdoors, but hydroponic tends to produce the best results. 

The strain has various variations, too. For example, the Greenhouse Seeds flowers for up to 11 weeks and yields high but the Mr Nice version flowers for eight to ten weeds. For the best results, train the plant with ScrOG and LST. 

5. Rollex OG Kush: Cannabis Cup Winner 2013

One of the most recent Cannabis Cup Winners is the Rollex OG Kush, which has quickly become one of our top strains to smoke even in 2024. Yes, it is arguably better than even some recent Cannabis Cup-winning strains. 

The strain is produced by Dutch breeders at Devil's Harvest Seeds, and as its name suggests, this is a luxurious strain that may not have anything to do with Rolex but it's all about excellence. 

It is a cross between Kuchi and White Fire OG, which are also award-winning strains in their own rights. It boasts a THC content of up to 23% and produces incredibly gorgeous flowers that are large and lumpy with a fuzzy appearance and a thick layer of resin. 

The strain brings Sativa-like effects initially as you experience a sudden cerebral lift that is happy, motivating, and clear. The phase is great for productivity, so you can use it before getting on with your chores. But once the physical high sets in, you'll have to sit back and enjoy its subtle sedative qualities. Don't be surprised if it puts you to sleep. 

Typically, Rollex OG Kush produces effects like euphoria, happiness, and relaxation. As a result, it is also an excellent option for alleviating pain, inflammation, stress, depression, and loss of appetite. It produces munchies often, which is why many users even use it to improve their appetite. 

What's more, Rollex OG Kush is fairly straightforward to grow and thrives in indoor, outdoor, or greenhouse settings. However, it does have a potent aroma profile so if you must keep your plant a secret, this is not the best option. 

So, these were some strains that have performed amazingly over a long period. Now, read on to learn more about the latest strains and products. 

6. Whoa-Si-Whoa: The Best Indica Flower, Cannabis Cup 2022

Whoa-Si-Whoa, a strain developed by Top Shelf Cultivation, took its throne as the king, or queen in this case, as the best Indica strain in the 2022 Cannabis Cup. Way too many strains were competing, but Whoa-Si-Whoa won because of its lasting impression on those connoisseurs who tried it. 

As a powerhouse in California, this strain is a favorite among both celebs and consumers. While some rave about its unmatched power and rich flavor profile, others can't get over its silky smooth hit. If you decide to try this one, be prepared for a journey with effects that linger around in your mind for a long time. 

Whoa-Si-Whoa has an alarmingly high THC content at 32%. Beware! If it gets into the hands of a beginner who has never tried cannabis, he will have a story to tell for the rest of his life. However, you can try the strain if you have the slightest bit of experience with cannabis. You will just go “Whoaa!” and surrender completely to it. In any case, start with small doses and work your way up when using strains that are as potent as Whoa-Si-Whoa. 

What makes this strain so delectable is its terpenes. With caryophyllene adding a spicy taste, limonene giving off hints of citrus, humulene projecting earthy flavors, and myrcene imparting a bit of musk, you can expect the flavors to be mindblowing. In essence, this interplay between the terpenes not only contributes to the aroma and taste of the strain but also throws THC into the mix, resulting in a powerful combination. 

From Whoa-Si-Whoa's genetic lineage, we can now understand what happens if you combine The White and Do-Si-Dos. The result is a hybrid inheriting the best qualities of both its parents, distinct in its own right and producing unusually strong cannabis marijuana.

Whoa-Si-Whoa induces major relaxation and a free-floating experience. Indica's most potent effects make it an excellent treatment for people who often deal with anxiety and pain. Not only is it shocking in terms of energy, but it's also effectively suited for other purposes, making it a versatile option for both medicinal and recreational purposes.

If you use this strain, you'll immediately understand why it won the cup in the Indica category. Aside from its high THC, its unique terpene profile and flavors are to die for. As expected, it's a hit in the cannabis world and will continue to be a must-have for many users. 

7. Pearadise: Best Sativa Flower, Cannabis Cup 2022 

Pearadise, who reigned as the champion among sativa flowers in the Cannabis Cup 2022, was created by Team Elite Genetics. With an 80/20 sativa-dominant ratio, this strain has unique genetics that makes it an exclusive and flavorful wonder for cannabis enthusiasts.

Pearadise is the result of a lot of effort in breeding, taking the award-winning Peach Ozz pheno and blending it with the highly potent Kosher Kush. Such a combination of recognized excellence produces a strain that is both exclusive and incredible.

When you use Pearadise, be prepared for a soaring cerebral experience that takes you to the clouds. Although the mind-numbing effect is powerful, the high that lasts forever will have you giggling, happy, and smiling from ear to ear for hours. 

Apart from its genetics, Pearadise is special due to its flavors. A fresh, delectable taste of pear will create an explosion of flavors. Each taste is an experience as the flavors hug your senses, leaving you yearning for more. Terpenes including Terpinolene, Ocimene, Caryophyllene, and Myrcene blend harmoniously, enhancing the overall aromatic experience. 

Coming to the potency, Pearadise unleashes about 33.18% THC, which is super strong even for connoisseurs. Naturally, you must be cautious or you may not like the experience. However, once you get used to it, you can expect to laugh and have a great time whenever you indulge in it. 

The potency is impressive indeed, as it's rare for buds to display such high THC levels. No wonder it has become the flagship strain of the team and is loved by almost every user who has managed to get his hands on it. 

8. Kiwi Thin Mintz Diamonds: Best Solvent Concentrate, Cannabis Cup 2022

We only discussed buds, but what about concentrates? Cannabis cup has many categories, so we decided to talk about some extracts as well. And, the champion in the extracts category is Kiwi Thin Mintz Diamonds by Bear Labs. 

This incredible extract has a THC content of about 86.38%! Since these are nothing but THC diamonds, you can expect a high percentage of THC, but it's still unbelievable. Can you imagine the high it can induce?

When we talk about concentrates, the first thing that comes to mind is the terpenes. Users love cannabis extracts mainly because of their terpenes, and Kiwi Thin Mintz Diamonds is no exception. Suffice it to say that the terpenes tantalize your palate. Orange and notes of mango meet somewhere between sweet and savory so that everything feels just right, hitting the perfect spot with every single dab. 

Thanks to the accompanying sauce, as long as the product stays moist, the terpenes are plentiful. Moreover, the product is quite affordable so you don't have to worry about spending too much for some fun. 

Most concentrates are advertised to perform well but they fall flat in reality. This is mainly because they can't take the heat. However, Thin Mintz can handle scorching temperatures of up to 570°F without burning, indicating that it's made of high-quality plant material. Just make sure you smash the chunky smaller diamonds to get the best experience. This way, the THC gets distributed evenly throughout the product and you can enjoy every single puff you hit. 

9. Pink Certz: Best Hybrid Flower, Cannabis Cup 2022

Of all the hybrids that were competing, the one that came out on top according to public opinion was PInk Certz which won first place as the Best Hybrid Flower in Cannabis Cup 2022. 

With a THC content of 31.57%, Pink Certz is an absolute gem, which was bred by Compound Genetics and produced by none other than Sense based out of San Francisco. 

If you happen to purchase PInk Certz, you'll notice that the terpenes are simply outstanding. Mint, coriander, cherry cola, and fuel: it's like a heavy perfume you can't get enough of. The fragrance immediately assaults your senses and fills your nostrils. This all-pervasive atmosphere tends to linger for a long time in a room, tantalizing even those who haven't used cannabis. 

Apart from the bouquet of fragrances, you'll notice that the buds are sticky and dense. You'll find them so sticky that you have to work a bit to peel them out of the jar. 

Looking at the buds alone is a pleasure. Adorned in green and white colors with orange pistils peeking in between, the buds are covered from top to toe in sugary trichomes. Perfectly dried and cured, these buds serve as great treats if you want to experience the magic of marijuana. 

As you're enveloped by a savory, delicious, sweet aroma, you'll begin to understand why this strain won the cup. A cross between Grape Gasoline and The Menthol, it's easy to understand where it got its characteristics from. 

10. Sleepy Sour Cherry CBN: Best Edibles — Gummies, Cannabis Cup 2022 

Now, let's get to the edibles. There were many contenders, but Sleepy Sour Cherry CBN emerged as the winner in the edibles category in the Cannabis Cup 2022. These vegan cannabis gummies with their unique formulation stole the spotlight. With about 50mg CBN and 100mg THC, you can understand why it was a crowd favorite. Oh, and by the way, in previous years, the Cannabis Cup was judged by famous personalities in the cannabis industry., However, it's the public that's judging these strains now. So, the strains and products mentioned here are truly deserving and the best indeed. 

Coming back to Sleepy Sour Cherry CBN gummies created by Sensi, note that they are designed for those suffering from insomnia. They are also infused with other ingredients like Omega 3 to offer the perfect experience. 

The gummies taste incredible with tarty cherry flavors and are soft yet chewy. Each bite is something to savor, and you will never forget these powerful gummies. If you have problems with stress, pain, or insomnia, these gummies formulated with special ingredients can help.

What makes these gummies truly special is that the manufacturer is thoughtful enough to make them vegan so it suits everyone. Made of pectin derived from plants, it's 100% vegan, making it easier for your stomach to digest it. Most gummies are made with gelatin derived from animals, but vegetarians will not prefer that.

Apart from that, these gummies have very low sugar, so it's great if you're watching your weight. Also, don't forget that these gummies are infused with Omega 3, which improves the absorption of cannabis to a great extent. As you may already know, Omega 3 is great for the heart and joints, so consuming these gummies is not just great for a fitful sleep but for your health as well. 

Summary: Cannabis Cup: Best Strains, Edibles, And Concentrates

These are just a few of the many cannabis strains that have won the High Times Cannabis Cup, but that does not mean other strains aren't as good. Put simply, these strains are your gateway into experiencing the best of the best strains available today. 

Try them. We promise you, you won't be disappointed. The standards for winning the Cannabis Cup are insanely high, so even the most random winner will not disappoint.