The 2023 Cannabis Cup continued its tradition of highlighting the best products in the cannabis industry, with a variety of categories showcasing premium flower, edibles, concentrates, and more. As the competition attracts top brands and emerging producers, Multi-State Operators (MSOs) were well-represented among the nominees, alongside boutique and craft producers. The 2023 Cannabis Cup demonstrated both the growing influence of MSOs and the innovative spirit of smaller producers.
Notable Winners of the 2023 Cannabis Cup
The Cannabis Cup celebrates excellence across several categories, and this year’s winners exemplified the highest standards in cultivation, production, and formulation. Here’s a look at some of the standout winners from the 2023 event:
- Best Sativa Flower: Super Silver Haze by Cresco Labs. This classic strain from one of the largest MSOs delivered its signature energizing effects, making it a favorite among both recreational and medical users.
- Best Indica Flower: Granddaddy Purple by Trulieve. Another major MSO, Trulieve impressed the judges with its rich, grape-flavored Indica strain, providing strong sedative effects that are perfect for evening relaxation.
- Best Hybrid Flower: Gelato #41 by Curaleaf. Known for its balance of cerebral and body effects, Gelato #41 earned high marks for its sweet flavor and potent relaxation, positioning Curaleaf as a frontrunner in the hybrid category.
- Best Edible: Camino Wild Berry Gummies by Kiva Confections. Though not an MSO, Kiva Confections has long been recognized for their high-quality, flavorful edibles, and their Camino Wild Berry Gummies took top honors for their precision dosing and delicious taste.
- Best Concentrate: Live Resin Wedding Cake by 710 Labs. This boutique producer impressed with their high-terpene extract, providing flavorful dabs that stood out in terms of potency and purity.
- Best Vape Pen: Lemon Diesel Cartridge by Raw Garden. Known for its clean, potent vape oils, Raw Garden’s Lemon Diesel cart wowed judges with its smooth delivery and uplifting effects.
MSO Representation in 2023
Multi-State Operators (MSOs) like Curaleaf, Cresco Labs, and Trulieve have continued to dominate the cannabis industry, and their influence was strongly felt in the 2023 Cannabis Cup. As large companies with operations spanning multiple states, MSOs have the resources to produce consistent, high-quality products, and this year’s competition confirmed their position as industry leaders. However, smaller boutique brands like 710 Labs and Kiva Confections also made a strong showing, highlighting the importance of craft cannabis in the market.
How the Cannabis Cup Works
The Cannabis Cup is a judged competition, with products entered across various categories including flower, edibles, concentrates, vapes, and more. Judges, who range from industry experts to general cannabis consumers, evaluate entries based on flavor, potency, effects, and overall quality. Some Cannabis Cups even allow public participation, making it one of the most inclusive competitions in the cannabis industry.
To Be Continued…
The 2023 Cannabis Cup provided an exciting glimpse into the future of cannabis. With a mix of MSOs and boutique brands taking home honors, the competition demonstrated the growing diversity of the industry and underscored the importance of both innovation and consistency. As the cannabis market continues to expand, the Cannabis Cup remains the gold standard for excellence in cannabis products.
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