A Guide to Cannabis Tasting

Let’s take a little trip into the world of cannabis tasting to discover how you can develop your palate and get more out of each product. As the cannabis industry continues to expand, so does the number of myriad sensual delights it has to offer. A really good cannabis product will soothe all the aches, pains, and worries in your body while also being a pleasure to consume.

Like fine wine, cannabis – when taken correctly – comes with a complex and intriguing palate, if you know what to look for. And like fine wine, there are hundreds of varieties to choose from and experience!

How to taste cannabis

Cannabis connoisseurs are aware that there are many modes of consumption available on the modern marketplace. Between smoked products, vapor, and the many different styles of edibles, the tasting experience has something to offer to everyone – whether you enjoy the taste of straight cannabis, or prefer to have a little flavoring in the mix.

If you’re someone who loves a good wine pairing with dinner, a high-quality edible cannabis product may speak to you, offering an intentional blend of curated flavors. 

There’s no way to fully eliminate the taste of the sticky green herb, and so choosing additional flavors that complement and harmonize with this distinctive flavor is an important aspect of the creation process. Done really well, an ingredient like ginger or lemon included in a gummy (or mint, or chocolate, or hard candy) might even bring out some of the subtler notes of the strain being used in the product.

The extra flavors that you find in an edible will however disguise or dilute some of the taste of the flower itself. Purists who want to experience the full depth that an unfettered strain has to offer will prefer to smoke or vape their cannabis. Tasting the plant by itself gives a more straightforward experience, and is a great way to start working to identify the different notes which a really delectable strain has to offer.

What is this I’m tasting?

Aromatic plants owe their aromas and more pronounced flavors to chemical compounds called terpenes. In addition to producing distinctive scents and tastes, terpenes can have bioactive properties which offer mild therapeutic support to a variety of ailments – for example, linalool, the primary terpene in lavender, is responsible for the flower’s sharp botanical aroma, and may also provide a nervine effect which helps us to calm our nervous systems and relax.

Terpenes are responsible for the variety of flavors in cannabis. Three most common terpenes in various strains of the plant include:

  • Myrcene, by far the most abundant terpene in cannabis, provides earthy, musky notes.
  • Caryophyllene, the second most common terpene, offers a spicy tasting experience.
  • Limonene, an extremely popular terpene, does what it says on the tin and gives cannabis a citrusy palate.

Besides these few, at least 8 other named terpenes exist which contribute to the flavor profile of the hundreds of cannabis strains on the market. When you take your tasting skills to the next level, see if you can name the chemical compounds responsible for the notes you’re noticing.

Cannabis tasting notes to look out for

Understanding the myriad flavors that await you in a cannabis flight can help you to deepen your tasting experience and get a better sense of what you like. That’s the whole goal of tasting! Here are some of the common notes to keep your nose and palate open to the next time you taste.

  • Sweet. This note goes at the top because it can encompass many of the other flavors – sweetness is a complex concept in culinary circles, as it is in cannabis, offering a candy-coating that can feel like caramel, fruit, ice cream, or cookies.
  • Spicy. Think pepper, cinnamon, clove, and tobacco – part nose-hair curling capsaic experience, part baked-good delight.
  • Sour. An icon of the cannabis flavor profiling world, this one is as varied as its sweet counterpart, offering a tart and puckered experience that might sit more on the citrus side of things, or closer to the danker end of the spectrum.
  • Umami. A flavor that tames your munchies while you smoke, because it tastes like a whole savory meal! Think garlic, miso, mushroom, and meat (as featured in the named “Burger” strains.)
  • Earthy. Wet leaves, rich soil, leather, and overripe fruits. These tend to feel cool on the palate and savory in the nose.
  • Floral. Botanical, colorful, and sharp – cannabis shares a number of terpenes with other more familiar garden-variety cousins including lavender and rose. Strains featuring these notes should be smoked on a garden terrace or during a summer picnic.
  • Fruity. Like flowers, fruits owe much of their flavors and aromas to the magic of terpenes, which they share with cannabis! Citrus, mango, strawberry, and blackberry are just a few of the fruity notes you can find in your pre-roll.
  • Cheesy. Notes that feel like dairy are common across popular strains. Cream, brie, cheddar, and even butter have all been noted on tasting cards across the globe.
  • Gassy. These notes are where cannabis got its skunky reputation, but the plant’s gaseous aromatics go beyond the mammalian and into the industrial: notes of diesel and petroleum join our stripy friend in this category.

And so on, and so forth. If you need a handy chart, Western Cultured put together this tasting wheel as a quick guide to the world of cannabis tasting.

Cannabis tasting best practices

Like wine, the process of tasting cannabis is a multi-sensory experience involving the ear, eye, and hand, as well as the nose and mouth. Getting the whole picture of whatever bud you’re consuming is a delicate process, and one you should consider trying out if you want to become a bonafide cannabis connoisseur. Here’s how.

  • Stay hydrated. A dry mouth and nose can dull your senses to the delicate oils making up the flavors and aromas of your cannabis product. Staying hydrated will help to keep the sensitive membranous tissues in both spots open and active for the experience.
  • Wash your hands! It’s polite, if tasting in a group, of course. But hands can carry smells and flavors on them that will disrupt the delicate profile of your strain. Before you taste, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with unscented soap, and dry well with a clean towel.
  • Choose your weapon. How you consume your cannabis will also manipulate the flavor – a toasty taste from a pipe or joint will add a certain smoky intrigue to the taste, while a bubbler offers a cleaner experience.
  • Touch, taste, smell, look, listen. Like a sommelier swirling, sniffing, and examining their glass before taking a sip, you’ll get the most out of your smoke with a little preparatory appreciation of your plant.
    > First, examine the bud, noting color, density, and the presence of crystals.
    > Next, gently compress the bud between your fingers, and listen carefully for the tell-tale crunch from the petals. Doing so will release some of the aromatic oils for your smelling pleasure.
    > Finally, after setting down the bud, give your fingers a quick lick as part of the dry tasting process – burning changes the chemistry of the plant, and tasting it before you smoke offers a different profile to experience.
  • Burn with care. When you’re ready to smoke, light the bowl or joint gently – avoiding torching the plant will allow you to taste the complexity of the strain, without the flavor of the fire itself.
  • Enjoy! Tasting is only fun if you like it, so don’t pressure yourself into smoking cheesy strains if you’d rather pack your bowl with citrus. Don’t know what we’re talking about? Tasting cannabis will help you to figure out what you like.

Take a Tasting Tour!

There’s nothing quite like a guided cannabis tour complete with food and viticulture in the heart of California wine country. Start down the path to becoming a cannabis connoisseur and Book a tour with Happy Travelers today!


Everything you ever wanted to know about getting a job in the cannabis industry

Despite its rocky beginnings and complicated legal status, the growth of cannabis as an industry is continuing to accelerate. Estimated to reach a revenue value of around $40 billion over the next 12 months, legalized cannabis production represents a major contributor to the US economy, as well as the present job market: in 2022 alone, more than 400 thousand cannabis jobs made their American debut.

Whatever your field, a career in cannabis can prove lucrative – whether or not you’re one of the 5 in 10 Americans who partake. But what exactly does working in cannabis entail, and how do you get started? Let’s talk about it.

What are the different types of cannabis jobs?

Modern cannabis companies offer a variety of both familiar and industry-specific job opportunities at all levels. Generally, these can be split into two categories:

  • Plant-contact positions involve working directly with the product, such as in cultivation, retail, ect.
  • Auxiliary positions focus on organizational operations, including marketing, web programming, etc.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the more popular positions available today in the cannabis industry.

Plant contact roles include:

  • Bud-tending. “Bud-tender” is a familiar industry term for retail and sales associates working in customer-facing positions at brick-and-mortar dispensaries. Bud tenders help customers to find the right products to meet their needs, and must be knowledgeable about different varieties of cannabis and their uses and effects.

    Average salary: $30,000
  • Store management. As a growing industry, there’s lots of room for advancement and career mobility in cannabis. Dedicated and knowledgeable retail associates can work their way into a managerial role if they are willing to put in the time and effort.

    Average salary: $44,000
  • Delivery. Delivery services are wildly popular these days, not to mention critical points of access for people with limited mobility. Medical and recreational cannabis delivery drivers provide essential services for those consumers who can’t (or would rather not) take a trip to the dispensary to pick up their favorite products.

    Average salary: $33,500
  • Cultivation. Like any agricultural crop, the survival of the cannabis industry is dependent on its growers. Nationally there exist a variety of both large and small-scale growing operations requiring skilled and dedicated workers to help coax the plant from seed and into its final harvestable form. Licensed growers also create other seasonal jobs for trimmers, harvesters, and packers.

    Average salary: $50,000
  • Laboratory. The rising popularity of edibles, cannabis vaporizers, and other non-flower methods of consuming and using both THC and CBD cannabis products requires the expertise of chemists and other lab-competent scientists to extract the active components of the whole plant for use in a variety of products. Chemists and lab managers are at the higher-end of this earning scale.

    Average salary: $75,500

Here are a few common auxiliary positions available in cannabis:

  • Accounting. As a regulated industry, cannabis businesses are subject to different tax laws than most other organizations. Therefore any company with cannabis as its primary product will require the help of financial experts who are aware of these laws and understand how to navigate them when doing the business’ books.

    Average salary: $54,600
  • Marketing. As in any other industry, cannabis businesses need skilled marketers to help spread the word and accelerate company growth. Per regulations, however,  legal stipulations apply which limit what can and cannot be said about certain cannabis products. A good marketer working at any level in the cannabis industry must be able to build and support high-quality campaigns while still adhering to these laws.

    Average salary: $45,500
  • Product consultant. Product consultants are market-savvy advisors that help retail cannabis organizations know which products to stock to get the most out of their sales. This is a non-contact position which nonetheless requires individuals to have in-depth knowledge of a variety of cannabis products, including which ones are likely to sell. This role is a great goal for product-passionate new bud tenders to set for themselves.

    Average salary: $83,000

These are just a few of the myriad roles which are popping up every day. Later in the article, we’ll talk about where and how to look to find a dream job that plays to your skills set in the cannabis industry.

How to get hired with cannabis companies

Success in any position in the cannabis industry requires specific knowledge of and appreciation for the product, even in entry-level positions. You don’t always need to be an expert, but you do need to know what you’re talking about. Luckily, this information is readily available through a variety of reputable sources online – having a basic knowledge of various cannabis products and strains will allow you to do well in a customer-facing role.

Starting out as a bud-tender or other front-line product worker can set you on a career path towards higher-level positions. It’s also a great way to build a better understanding of all aspects of the industry including product knowledge, as well as compliance laws, sales tactics, and other critical skills.

From here, you might engage in specialized educational pathways that will move you closer to career-level work. Holding a business degree, an accounting certification, marketing degree, etc. alongside your knowledge of and experience with cannabis will help you stand out from other applications.

Consider your career goals, both long and short-term. Where are you now, and where do you want to be? What will it take to get you there? This will give you a good platform from which you can build any skills and knowledge caches which might be missing.

What to know when applying for a job in cannabis

Most jobs in the cannabis industry, whether or not they actually come in contact with the substance itself, are subject to compliance measures set by regulatory laws.

For example, some states where cannabis has been legalized require budtenders to hold a special license before they are able to work. 

If you are already a career path professional who’s looking to break into the world of cannabis, it is likely you will need to build some industry-specific knowledge or earn special certification or licensing which will qualify you to work in the industry. 

And of course, cannabis is not legal in every state within the US. If you live in one where cannabis products are legally sold, check out your state’s cannabis information sites to find out more about specific licensing laws.

Why work in cannabis

As we mentioned in the introduction, cannabis is a fast-growing industry that’s quickly overcoming many of the former legal limitations which were holding the industry in stasis for so long. There is extraordinary room for advancement in many fields within the industry, meaning individuals with all different kinds of skill sets can find lucrative and fulfilling work, whatever they have to offer.

Where to look for cannabis jobs

In states where cannabis is legal, job seekers can find available cannabis positions in the same places they might find other jobs, including Indeed.Com, LinkedIn, and other employment websites.

You can also take a look at some of your favorite cannabis companies to see if they’re hiring, or get a better sense of what they’re looking for in candidates to help you spruce up your resume.

Come check out Happy Travelers

Want to learn more about the many delights the cannabis industry has to offer? Book a tour with Happy Travelers! Nestled in the heart of California’s wine country, our tours give you a taste of all the industry has to offer, so you can learn about cannabis and cannabis products through luxurious experience. 

 Book a Happy Travelers Tours Cannabis Experience today!


The Best Cannabis Strains for Socializing

Whether you’re heading out for a birthday celebration, a house party, or delicious dinner, you don’t want to just grab any strain. You want to consume the best cannabis strains for socializing and enjoying your night. That means a strain that’ll get you feeling outgoing and energized without getting couch-locked and sleepy.

Looking to choose the strain that’ll get you feeling lively? Check out our list of the best strains for socializing.Best Cannabis Strains for Socializing

Runtz

Runtz is a rare type of hybrid marijuana strain. Runtz is a cross Zkittlez with Gelato and it is loved for its fruity flavor profile. Runtz is celebrated for its creamy smoke that is smooth and welcoming. In 2020, Runtz was named Leafly Strain of the Year. This strain of weed produces uplifting effects that are known to be long-lasting.
Runtz weed strain is also euphoric, making it perfect for social situations. The high can help you feel more talkative and outgoing, making it easier to socialize with others. If you are looking for a cannabis strain that will help you unlock your creative side, then Runtz is a good choice

Blue Dream

Blue Dream is a sativa-dominant hybrid marijuana strain made by crossing Blueberry with Haze. This strain produces a balanced high, along with effects such as cerebral stimulation and full-body relaxation. Blue Dream is reported to smell and taste like sweet berries.
The strain provides plenty of happy energy to keep you moving, and enough carefree buzz to relax when you need to. You can float in the water, take a swim, or just chill and enjoy the view with whomever is vibing next to you. Share a friendly bowl and get to know each other. You’ll be feeling so good you might make a new friend, or maybe something more.

Girl Scout Cookies

Girl Scout Cookies is an indica-dominant hybrid marijuana strain made by crossing OG Kush with Durban Poison. This popular strain is known for producing euphoric effects, followed up by waves of full-body relaxation. One hit of GSC will leave you feeling happy, hungry, and stress-free. GSC is famous for its pungent, dessert-like aroma & flavor profile featuring bold notes of mint, sweet cherry, and lemon. This strain has won numerous accolades and awards over the years, including a few Cannabis Cups.

White Widow

Among the most famous strains worldwide is White Widow, a balanced hybrid. Whte Widow is a cross between a Brazilian sativa landrace and a resin-heavy South Indian indica. Its buds are white with crystal resin and provide euphoric and energetic effects great for stimulating both conversation and creativity. White Widow has been recognized as one of the best strains for socializing since it hit Amsterdam’s coffee shop scene in the 1990s. White Widow’s long-acting, focused effects make it an excellent party strain for any occasion.

Now What

Now that we've talked about some of the best cannabis strains for socializing, what's next? Book a Cannabis Tour and get up-close-and-personal with cannabis with Happy Travelers Tours!

 


Stoner Accessories

What could be more fun than Stoner Accessories? Check out this short list of very cool stoner accessories for the cannabis consumer in your world! 

Sunset Bong

The Sunset, from Yew Yew Shop, is designed to look and hit like an absolute dream. 

Made from thick and sturdy borosilicate glass. Stoner Accessories - Bong

This piece features a rounded mouthpiece and a squared base that feels sturdy in your hand. 

The smoke filters through the water for a perfectly smooth hit every time. 

Why smoke from anything, when yew can smoke from a sculpture?

The Best Grinder

Stoner Accessories - GrinderThis medical-grade anodized aluminum herb SHREDDER from Santa Cruz Shredder is the ultimate in new herb Shredder technology.

Every element of the Shredder has been analyzed and improved upon, from the revolutionary tooth design and threading pattern to the rare earth magnet used in the lid closure system.

Spinning Rolling Tray - the Best of the Stoner Accessories

The Birch Blazy Susan Spinning Rolling Tray features an innovative design with smallStoner Accessories - Blazy Susan compartments for all different types of smoking accessories and supplies including lighters, pre rolls, bangers, your cell phone, and more. This tray was built from the ground up through consumer feedback and has more functionality than any other rolling tray on the market. The Blazy Susan Spinning Rolling Tray is truly revolutionary, and was built by smokers for smokers. Give it a spin – your coffee table will never be the same! The Blazy Susan is 15.5” in diameter and is constructed from high quality birch. It is hand finished with a fine Italian varnish to ensure a sleek and smooth rolling experience. Blazys make a perfect gift for any smoker, from casual to connoisseur. 

This is the Best of the Stoner Accessories, in our opinion!

Retractable Lighter Holder

Tired of losing your lighters? Got a friend with sticky fingers? Grab yourself a lighter leash! While this seems like the leastStoner Accessories - Lighter Leash interesting item on our list, it's probably the most important! Everyone who consumes cannabis knows the one person in their group who will steal a lighter with no remorse! 

 

Put a leash on it!

Now What?

Now that we've shown you some Stoner Accessories, book one of our Cannabis Dispensary Tours and get your hands on some of these great items! Book Your Tour Today!

 


Cannabis Camping

Planning to go camping with your buds? Here are some Cannabis Camping suggestions for how to take your trips to new heights!

Edibles around the Bonfire

Heavenly Sweet Chili Lime Crackers

A deliciously crunchy twist on our baked crackers. Loaded with the combination of zesty lime and flavorful chiles, this snackable munch is loaded with 100mg THC (10 standard doses) per package.

 

Keef Classic Sodas

Keef Classic Sodas are everything you love about the sweet and timeless soda flavor with a burst of THC for an added effect. Keef Classics are widely available and come in the following delicious flavors: Bubba Kush Root Beer, Original Cola, Orange Kush, Blue Razz, Purple Passion and recently added Mr. Puffer. Recreational Keef Classics contain one serving of 10 MG THC and medical Keef Classics are available in both 25 MG THC and 100 MG THC depending on the state.

 

Cannabis Camping: Hotbox the Tent

If you’re unfamiliar with hotboxing, it’s when you smoke cannabis in a small confined area until it is full of smoke. This could be a car, a closet, a bathroom, a shed, or any small enclosed space (like a tent).

Whether you believe it gets you more stoned or not, it's pretty fun.

 

Best Cannabis Accessories for Camping

Puffco Budsy

This discreet water bottle bong will have you sippin’ on hydro smoke all day with no one else the wiser! The Budsy Water Bottle Bong is Puffco’s latest masterpiece and their first-ever water pipe. Centered around portability, the Budsy is perfect for concerts, hikes, and just about any other outdoor activity or on-the-go lifestyle. This water bottle water pipe features a screw-on lid that contains your bong water inside the bottle while on the move and conceals a hidden ceramic bowl piece below the mouthpiece. The Budsy mouthpiece flips open and closed with ease and connects to a long downstem disguised as a straw. This deceitful downstem features an inline percolator with numerous holes that provide advanced water filtration as you inhale!

 

The Polar Blast

The 2021 design is bringing The Polar Blast up to an ALL NEW LEVEL! The new, stealthy lid is made from the same food grade polycarbonate that our Original Polar Blast lid is made from. Contents can be concealable in the sunken in space and the lid top is detachable. At the bottom of the dual, walled stainless steel insulated tumbler is an additional removable compartment. It is a 2 in 1 stash area and grinder. This is also made from our durable food grade polycarbonate and is sure not to break.

 

What Next?

Interesting in learning more about Cannabis? Join a Happy Travelers Tours Cannabis Adventure!


Best Rolling Papers

In the age of high-tech smoking and pre-rolled goods, rolling your own joints is still a convenient skill to have in a pinch. It might be considered outdated, but it's all part of a ritual and experience. And it starts with the best rolling papers!

For Beginners:

Curved® Papers

Using Curved® Papers, anyone can roll a perfect joint! It doesn’t matter if you are just beginning to learn or you’ve been rolling your own for years. The Best Rolling Papers

Curved® Papers feature the easy to roll curved edge. The company uses only the finest French cigarette rolling paper to provide a beautiful burn.

For Stylish Smokers:

Blazy Susan

Blazy Susan is proudly Vegan, GMO Free, and Chlorine Free.

The Best Rolling PapersTheir world famous Blazy Susan Pink Rolling Papers are made in France using premium materials that deliver a slow burn with absolutely no aftertaste. Instead of using hemp or rice paper, which can impart unwanted flavors and smells onto your smoking material, Blazy Susan uses wood pulp so that joints taste and smell the way they should. Blazy Susan Rolling Papers are also extremely tough compared to normal rolling papers. You won’t have to deal with nearly as many rips, tears, or holes poking through your papers.

 

For Classic Consumers:

RAW

Since the beginning, RAW has been on a mission to be the leader of the pack in the rolling paper industry. RAW continues to revolutionize the smoking world by creating products that are naturally ingeniously designed to enhance the smoking experience.The Best Rolling Papers

RAW only makes high-quality & earth-friendly products that improve your smoking experience, and we refuse to ever change what we stand for. RAW paper is made from natural plants with zero burn additives.

For Those with Expensive Tastes:

Shine

The Best Rolling PapersFashioned as the epitome of luxury rolling paper, Shine 24k gold rolling papers have been handcrafted from a meticulous blend of edible gold and hemp based paper, to make one of the smoothest burning rolling papers on the market. Not only do Shine Papers turn every head in the room, but the papers also burn extremely slow, due to their high quality materials.

What's Next?

If you're interested in learning more about cannabis and the cannabis-lifestyle, sign up for one of Happy Travelers Tours Cannabis Adventures! Or, call 707-386-9859 to learn more!

 


Best Cannabis Books

​​Here are some of the best cannabis books about everything from general information, to  infusion, to growing marijuana.

For Beginners:

The Essential Cannabis Book: A Field Guide for the Curious

Rob Mejia

The Essential Cannabis Book: A Field Guide for the Curious is founded on the premise of “Where do I begin?” Like theCannabis Books author’s journey, it starts with an enlightening look at the history and science of cannabis from its evolution in the US from a useful, legal plant to a demonized Schedule 1 drug to how cannabis varieties (...that historically(“grew like weeds”) are grown, cultivated, and differ in character and benefits. The straightforward language makes learning your THCs from your CBDs easy while the ensuing chapters on medical benefits, the basics of personal and responsible consumption, and the know-how for infusing cannabis oils into tasty, healthy recipes provide valuable fundamental knowledge. Best of all, threaded throughout are personal stories–ranging from a dispensary owner, medical patient, and hemp oil producer to a farming nun, a Colorado sheriff, and more–that lends The Essential Cannabis Book an engaging human voice as it provides answers and guidance for those curious about the benefits of cannabis and the rapidly growing cannabis community.

Buy on Amazon

The Leafly Guide to Cannabis: A Handbook for the Modern Consumer

The Leafly Team 

Cannabis is at the very beginning of a craft and educational renaissance. It is emerging from the legislative shadows and a second awakening is occurring: people are proactively seeking information about how to properly consume and enjoy it.

And cannabis is a wildly diverse product, even more so than alcohol. Consumers can experience not only different flavor profiles, but also different cerebral and body effects; they can consume using different methods, from vaporization to combustion to topical application; and they can pick and choose between an ever-growing number of different strains and products.

The Leafy Guide to Cannabis provides all the best tips to navigating this growing market in a definitive guide that will enhance every user's enjoyment and high.

Buy on Amazon

Cannabis Books For Foodies:

Bong Appétit: Mastering the Art of Cooking with Weed: A Cookbook

Editors of MUNCHIES 

Inspired by the popular MUNCHIES and Viceland television series, Bong Appétit is the Joy of Cooking for a new generation interested in making serious, sophisticated food--with weed. Bong Appétit breaks down the science of infusing (oils, butters, milks, alcohol, and more) with cannabis, and offers recipes ranging from weed butter-basted chicken to weed chimichurri to weed brownie sundaes. Along the way, the book hits on marijuana politics, dosage, and pairing strains and flavors, and has tips from MUNCHIES vast network of friends and experts, including "Bong Appétit" stars Ry Prichard and Vanessa Lavorato.

Buy on Amazon

Cannabis Cocktails, Mocktails & Tonics: The Art of Spirited Drinks and Buzz-Worthy Libations

Warren Bobrow

Combining cannabis and cocktails is a hot new trend, and Cannabis Cocktails, Mocktails & Tonics shows you how. Featuring a collection of 75 recipes of cannabis influenced cocktails and drinks; The Cocktail Whisperer Warren Bobrow will show you the essential instructions for de-carbing cannabis to release its full psychoactive effect. Learn the history of cannabis as a social drug and its growing acceptance to becoming a medicinal. Look beyond cocktails and create successful tonics, syrups, shrubs, bitters, compound butter and exotic infused oil to use in any drink. Start your day with coffee, tea, and milk-based cannabis beverages for healing and relaxation. Get your afternoon pick-me-up with gut healing shrubs and mood enhancing syrups. Make cooling lemonades and sparking herbal infusions to soothe the fevered brow. Then, have an after dinner herbal-based cannabis drink for relaxation at the end of a good meal. The options are endless with Cannabis Cocktails, Mocktails & Tonics!

Buy on Amazon

Edibles: Small Bites for the Modern Cannabis Kitchen

Stephanie Hua

This cookbook ventures boldly beyond pot brownies with remarkably delicious baked confections as well as innovative savory treats. Designed for bakers and cooks of all skill levels, Edibles: Small Bites for the Modern Cannabis Kitchen includes simple recipes like spiced superfood truffles and roasted beet hummus, alongside more advanced recipes like artisanal marshmallows and Gruyére & green garlic gougéres—all brought to life with vibrant photography.

Complete with instructions for creating master ingredients such as canna butters, oils, honey, and maple syrup, as well as information on dosage and portions and the science of cannabis, this baking cookbook gives cannabis newbies and connoisseurs alike the info they need to create an easy, safe, and scrumptious edibles experience.

Buy on Amazon

Cannabis Books For Green Thumbs:

The Cannabis Grow Bible: The Definitive Guide to Growing Marijuana for Recreational and Medicinal Use

Greg Green

The most comprehensive guide to marijuana gardening ever written is back with all new information and updated advice for cannabis enthusiasts. Over 200 additional pages of all new information are included in this book, from all new lighting equipment and techniques, to highly advanced cannabinoid extraction techniques and detailed, step-by-step gardening guides for novice and professional growers alike.

This book contains over 700 pages, with all new photos and step-by-step guides to every aspect of marijuana horticulture, plant breeding, and hash production. Featuring a handy quick start guide at the beginning to allow growers to get started right away, and hone their techniques as they read the later chapters in more detail. The biggest, most comprehensive, and straightforward guide to marijuana horticulture ever published.

Buy on Amazon

Marijuana Horticulture: The Indoor/Outdoor Medical Grower's Bible

Jorge Cervantes 

With 512 full color pages and 1120 full color photographs and illustrations, Marijuana Horticulture: The Indoor/Outdoor Medical Grower's Bible is the most complete cultivation book available. The Fifth Edition of the former Indoor Marijuana Horticulture: The Indoor Bible was originally published in 1983, when it immediately became a best seller. More than 500,000 copies of the Indoor Bible are in print in Dutch, English, French, German and Spanish.

New greenhouse and outdoor growing chapters make this a book both indoor and outdoor growers will keep under thumb. The other 15 chapters (17 total) are all updated with the most current information, completely rewritten and significantly expanded. For example, Dr. John McPartland contributed an all new medical section - The books credits list more than 300 contributors and reads like a who's who in the world of cannabis cultivation.

Buy on Amazon

What's Next?

Learn more about Cannabis by getting up-close-and-personal with one of Happy Travelers Tours educational cannabis adventure!

 


Wine Country Brunch Dispensary Style

Take your Wine Country brunch to new heights! 

Start the morning with Happy Travelers Tours as we take you to our partnered dispensary for exclusive deals. Sit back and relax as we guide you through a “sweet and savory” Treat Tower filled with three courses of yummy infused treats and non-infused treats from our local catering chef.

Throughout the tasting, we’ll pour three CBD-infused loose-leaf teas, brewed tableside in traditional British Tea Service Style.

Enjoy other infused add-ons like honey, juices, teas, and butters. 

Product Add-On Highlights:

Infused THC Teas by Kikoko

Wine Country Brunch Dispensary Brunch

Enjoy Mystery Baking’s Canna Butter Peanut Budder, and Honey over toast! Mystery Baking’s Honey can also add a twist to your morning tea on our Wine Country Brunch!

Wine Country Brunch Dispensary Brunch Wine Country Brunch

Slow Sippers/Sharables

Wine Country Brunch Wine Country Brunch

Join Us for Our Take on a Wine Country Brunch

We originate this Tour in either Sonoma or Santa Rosa and we'll head to our Dispensary Partner where we will serve the Brunch while Guests shop for add-on's at the dispensary.

$150 per person. Minimum Group size is 6. Please call 707-386-9859 or email [email protected] to Book.

View Other Tours. See Our Wine Tour Website!


Weed, Wine, Woods and Waves Tour

Weed, Wine, Woods and Waves! Wow! What could be more fun! First we visit a Dispensary, then a scenic ride through the world-famous Russian River Valley as we head west towards Gary Farrell Winery, the Korbel Deli for lunch, Armstrong Woods for a “forest bath” and then finish off with a drive down Highway One on the Sonoma Coast!

The Drive

Originating in either the City of Sonoma or at your location, this full-day sightseeing tour travels 100 miles on beautiful Sonoma County backroads as we wind our way through the Sonoma Valley to the City of Santa Rosa and then westward out to the Pinot Noir capital of the world, the Russian River Valley.

The Weed

Our first stop is the best Dispensary in Santa Rosa (in our opinion) because it's owned and operated by folks whose family has been in the cannabis business in Sonoma County for 100 years - that's some Roots, amigos!

The Wine

We’ll be stopping at Gary Farrell Winery to enjoy the most amazing view available in the Russian River Valley – enjoy award winning wines while looking out over huge Redwood Trees and the premier pinot noir growing region.

Korbel Deli for Lunch

As we continue heading west we will stop for our lunch at the Korbel Cellars where you can enjoy fabulous food and sparkling wine before we continue our journey.

The Woods

Armstrong Woods State Park in Guerneville is home to some of the largest and tallest Redwoods in California. Spend about an hour ‘forest bathing’ as you stroll through the Park on easy to navigate trails.

The Waves

The Sonoma CoastWhen we burst out of the Redwoods and into the sunshine and California Coast be prepared for the significant temperature change as the view shifts from woods to Waves.

We will stop at Goat Rock State Beach at the north end of the Sonoma Coast on Highway One so you can dip your toes in the (very cold) Pacific and then we’ll head south down the Highway until we reach Bodega Head where you’ll have commanding views of the might Pacific Ocean and the spectacular Sonoma Coast!

A Full Day Tour

This is approximately a 6 to 7 hour day trip depending on the origination point; we provide water and you’re welcome to bring snacks and beverages to consume on board. To Book this tour please call 707-386-9859 or visit our Booking Page and indicate you’re interested in the Weed, Wine, Woods and Waves Tour! Maximum Group Size is 14

Cannabis, Wine and Food are not included in the fare, however, you can bring snacks and beverages to consume onboard.

More Information

We offer educational cannabis tours in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties. Learn More!


Common Terpenes between Cannabis and Wine

What are the common terpenes between cannabis and wine? It's an interesting question which has wonderful implications when you think about pairing Cannabis and Wine!

There are Three!

Geraniol: This terpene gives some white wines their rose-y aroma. Geraniol is found in bound grapes that have passed through the fermentation process. Some white wine varietals will contain higher levels of this terpene due to factors such as their region, or terroir, and human-controlled factors like the fermentation process.

Cannabis – Floral, Fruity, Rosy, Sweet and Waxy are the common ways Geraniol expresses in Cannabis. Some of the benefits of this include anti-cancer, antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant. Some of the strains available in 2022 which contain geraniol include: Headband, Island Sweet Skunk, Afghani, Lavender and Amnesia Haze. Further, varieties that have high levels of the terpene linalool (see below) tend to be high in geraniol as well

Linalool: If you catch a whiff of lavender upon opening a bottle of white wine, odds are there is linalool present in the grape. You may notice this in Chenin Blanc, for instance, as well as varietals of Muscat grapes, which typically have a high content of both geraniol and linalool.

Cannabis – Floral, Citrus and Spice are the most common expressions of Linalool in Cannabis. Benefits include anti-cancer, anti-depressant, anti-inflammatory, anti-epileptic, pain relief, sedative, sleep aid and stress relief. 2022 strains which manifest linalool include Dark Matter, OG Shark, LA Confidential, Scooby Snacks, Lavender, Mazar Sharif, Do-Si-Dos, Amnesia Haze and Zkittlez.

A-terpineol: also known as Nerol, you’ll find a-terpineol most commonly in varietals of Torrontes, Muscadet, Pinot Grigio, and Semillon.

Cannabis – Pine and Clove are the Terpineol expressions in Cannabis. The benefits are mostly anti-inflammatory and antifungal. Strains which contain Terpineol include Jack Herer.

  • Girl Scout Cookies.
  • Blue Dream.
  • White Widow.
  • OG Kush.
  • Skywalker OG.
  • Fire OG.
  • Jack Flash

What else is going on with wine?

Wine has a more complex aroma than taste and there are several different compounds that contribute to its scent.

Some of the volatile compounds which add to the wine include: Esters, Oak Lactones, Thiols and the aforementioned Terpenes.

Want to Learn More?

Book a Wine and Cannabis Tour with Happy Travelers Tours OR Book a Wine Tour with Old Vine Wine Tours! Call 707-386-9859 for more information or email: [email protected]