The best wine and cannabis pairings for your next indulgent night in.
The days of blazing up whatever herb you can find are, well, blasé. Today, the sophisticated cannasseur knows how to appreciate the distinct tasting notes of different strains of marijuana, often preferring the flavours and aromas of certain ones over others—which leads, naturally, to thoughtfully pairing a cannabis experience with complementary items like wine, champagne and even coffee. To help you toast the anticipated legalization of recreational marijuana this summer, we’ve curated the following wine pairings—because quality cannabis should be savoured, not squandered.
Riesling and Sour Diesel
Most people tend to become thirsty when smoking cannabis, which is why a refreshing Chardonnay is many smokers’ first choice. But the floral, fruity aromas of the Riesling cut through the sharpness of the Sour Diesel for a sweet-and-sour match made in heaven. RECOMMENDATION: Charles Smith Kung Fu Girl 2015
Unoaked Chardonnay and Northern Light/Lemon Kush
For a dry Chardonnay, you should choose a strain that complements rather than competes. The terpenes in Northern Light and Lemon Kush produce bright, citrusy notes, which go well with the smooth, buttery flavour of this white. RECOMMENDATION: Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay
Rose and Jack Herer
Rose and Jack were a perfect match on the Titanic, and so too are they here. Thankfully, this love story between a summery rosé and an earthy, woody herb has a happier ending. RECOMMENDATION: Rose de Leoube
Pinot Noir and Blue Cheese Indica
How about a little cheese with that wine? Pick up a Pinot with rich, woody afternotes and enjoy it alongside this strain, which tastes strongly of blue cheese (and yet also boasts aromas of fresh blueberries). RECOMMENDATION: Arrowleaf Pinor Noir 2015
Cabernet Sauvignon and GDP/GSC
A bold red like a Cabernet Sauvignon needs to be paired with a strain that can keep pace. Opt for Granddaddy Purple, which gives off a complex grape and berry flavour, or Girl Scout Cookies, whose sweet and earthy flavours pack a punch. RECOMMENDATION: Wynns Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
They say opposites attract, especially when it comes to cannabis and wine. Keep that principle in mind as you experiment with your favourite strains and varietals until you find a perfect pairing of your very own.
