The cannabis universe is as vast as it is diverse, and amidst this expanse, certain strains rise to legendary status. Gelato is one such phenom, a delightful blend that has mesmerized enthusiasts around the world sice it burst onto the scene with the attention-grabbing prowess of a rock star. Known for its aromatic allure, flavourful panache, and rich genetic lineage, Gelato's reputation precedes itself. But what do we know about the intriguing history and characteristics of this modern cannabis classic?
Origins of Gelato
Emerging from the sunny and progressive climate of California's Bay Area, Gelato owes its genetic makeup to the union of two powerhouse strains: Sunset Sherbert and Thin Mint GSC (Girl Scout Cookies). Both parent strains carry a legacy of their own; Sunset Sherbert has roots in Blackberry and OG Kush, while Thin Mint GSC is a phenotype of the legendary GSC strain.
These were two of the most elite connoisseur phenotypes on the market, so it would naturally make sense to see what a hybrid would do. It did not disappoint; Gelato is like the cannabis equivalent of Kim Kardashian – alluring, in demand, the centre of attention everywhere it goes, and even more successful than her parents.
Breeding
Gelato's birth wasn't a mere accident but the outcome of thoughtful and deliberate breeding. Aiming for a strain that married high potency with a unique and tantalising flavour profile, the breeders combined the fruity and intricate notes of Sunset Sherbert with the cool, minty undertones of Thin Mint GSC, leading to a genetic masterpiece. More interestingly, the Phenohunt to establish the now-infamous Gelato is a story worth telling.
San Francisco breeders Mr Sherbinkski and JIgga came together around 2011, and after one or two false starts, they settled on a project to cross Sunset Sherbert and GSC. After a comprehensive pollination project where each strain had the opportunity to pollinate the other, they were left with the seeds which went on to become the now-infamous Gelato.
The pair grew out numerous phenotypes, noting that each offered something slightly different in terms of aroma or cultivation techniques. Each plant in the Phenohunt had a number attached to its pot, which would later become part of the name (i.e. Gelato33, and so on). After 75 were removed from the initial Phenohunt for coming up short in any areas, the team were left with 25 Phenos that passed with distinction.
Breeders and First Distribution
The masterminds behind Gelato are the team at Cookie Fam Genetics. With a stable of several iconic strains, their breeding acumen has consistently produced strains that resonate with the cannabis community. The Cali breeding elite have a back catalogue of hits to rival Elvis Presley. GSC, Sherbert, Gelato, and Runtz alone have enough gravitas to launch Cookies Fam into the cannabis Hall of Fame, bypassing the ballot with ease.
Upon its introduction, Gelato swiftly gained traction in California, its popularity spreading like wildfire and soon reaching international shores. Fascinatingly, Gelato has numerous phenotypes like Gelato #25, #33, #41, and #45, each varying slightly in flavor and effect.
Smell and Taste
Gelato is an olfactory and gustatory delight, and the name is perfect as it conjures images of the sweet delights it certainly delivers on. The aroma is a fragrant mix of sweet berries, citrus zest, and a subtle hint of lavender. On the palate, its dessert namesake shines through, presenting a creamy, delectable experience that's further heightened by a slight minty freshness, making each puff akin to a gourmet experience. You could easily make the argument that this strain deserves its status on flavour alone, but throw in its other qualities and it's not hard to see why stoners rush to Gelato like kids rush to the ice cream van.
What Gelato Does For You
Beyond its flavour, Gelato is revered for its harmonious effects. As a balanced hybrid with a slight indica lean, it offers an initial cerebral buzz that's both uplifting and creatively stimulating. As the experience unfolds, a gentle relaxation blankets the body without being overly sedative, making it a favorite for both recreational and therapeutic users. It's popular with medical users seeking relief from pain, nausea, insomnia, and inflammation.
How Does Gelato Grow?
Gelato demands expertise in its cultivation. Best suited for growers with intermediate to advanced experience, it flourishes in controlled indoor settings. For those daring to grow it outdoors, a Mediterranean climate with consistent warmth and humidity is ideal. The plant is bushy, requiring consistent pruning to allow its big, dense, trichome-laden buds to flourish.
Terpene Profile
Terpenes play a crucial role in defining the flavour, aroma, and the effects of cannabis strains. In the case of Gelato, the strain is celebrated for its unique and delectable aroma and flavour, which can be attributed to its terpene profile. Some of the prevalent terpenes found in the Gelato cannabis strain include:
Limonene: Known for its citrusy aroma, limonene contributes to the fruity scent reminiscent of berries and citrus that Gelato is famed for. Limonene may also provide mood-enhancing and stress-relieving effects.
Caryophyllene: This spicy, peppery terpene can be found in many herbs and spices, like black pepper and cloves. It's unique in that it can interact with the endocannabinoid system in the human body, potentially offering anti-inflammatory benefits.
Linalool: Providing a floral, lavender-like scent, linalool might contribute to the subtle hints of lavender present in the Gelato aroma. It's also believed to have calming and relaxing effects.
Myrcene: Often found in mangoes, lemongrass, and thyme, myrcene is recognized for its earthy aroma. It's one of the most common terpenes in cannabis and is associated with sedative and muscle-relaxing effects.
Humulene: Contributes to the strain's earthy, woody aroma, and is also found in hops and coriander. Humulene has been researched for its potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Pinene: As the name suggests, pinene has a pine-like aroma. It's believed to have potential benefits like anti-inflammation, increased alertness, and improved memory retention.
The precise concentrations of these terpenes can vary based on the specific phenotype of Gelato, the growing conditions, and the maturity of the plant at harvest. However, it's the interplay of these terpenes, in conjunction with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, that gives Gelato its unique sensory appeal and effects, showcasing the entourage effect in cannabis.
Visual Appearance
A treat for the eyes, Gelato showcases a vibrant interplay of deep greens and purples. Bright orange pistils dance amidst the buds, and a generous layer of shimmering trichomes gives it a frosted appearance, making it as much a visual delight as it is a sensory one.
What About The Kids? Gelato's Offspring Strains
Gelato’s rich genetics have paved the way for a myriad of offspring strains. Breeders, recognizing its potential, have produced hybrids like Gelato #33 (also named after NBA legend Larry Bird), Bacio Gelato, and Mochi Gelato, to name a few. These offspring often carry forward the trademark Gelato flavor while introducing their own unique twists.
Gelato's unique terpene profile, combined with its consistent THC levels, makes it a gem in breeding circles. Its genetics offer a blend of stability, potency, and distinct flavor, making it a sought-after parent for novel hybrid creations.
Conclusion
Gelato's journey from a regional Californian favourite to global superstardom speaks volumes about its attributes. It stands not just as a strain to be enjoyed, but as a testament to the art and science of cannabis breeding. Whether you're savouring its creamy, delicious flavour, basking in its effects, or exploring its offspring, Gelato is an ode to the wonders of cannabis cultivation. If you haven’t tried it, treat yourself to a bowl today.
Gelato lovers take note: The Gelato 41 cut features in our Autumn new releases. Stay tuned to the Seedsman blog for more details!
The Best Gelatos on Seedsman
If reading about Gelato has got you curious, you can pick from a range of superb Gelato strains right here. Would you like to see the dessert menu?
Gelat. OG
Seedsman's Gelat.OG combines the qualities of Gelato with OG Kush, making for a powerful hybrid with great yields, incredible flavours, and a short flowering time. THC is around 25%, making Gelat.OG a tour de force for potency. After a flowering time of just 55-60 days, indoor yields are as much as 500-600g.m2, outdoor yields are up to 400-600g/plant.
Gelat.OG Auto
If you're looking for all the qualities of Seedsman's Gelat.OG with a faster finish, Gelat.OG Auto is the answer. The same 25% THC content (approx.) and rich flavours, equally impressive yields, in just 80 days from seed to harvest. Gelat. OG Kush Auto combines Gelato with and OG Kush Auto, making for a fantastic autoflowering strain packed with quality.
Wedding Gelato
Royal Queen Seeds has built a reputation for producing high-quality cannabis strains, and Wedding Gelato is exactly that. By combining Wedding Cake and Gelato 33 (AKA Larry Bird), you get the sensational creamy vanilla taste of the Wedding Cake with the sweet fruitiness of Gelato. Potency is superb at around 25%, and this indica-dominant hybrid flowers in 56-63 days.
Glue Gelato Auto
When you combine Gorilla Glue with a Gelato auto, it's safe to say you're going to end up with a high amount of resin. Barney's Farm did just that, and the result is Glue Gelato Auto, which brings the flavour and potency of Gelato to the front, with the sticky appearance of Gorilla Glue making it instantly recognisable. This is a powerful auto, make no mistake, and that sweet fruity creaminess if enhanced by the slightest hint of chocolate.
Gelato 41
Potency and flavour are abundant in Atlas Seed's Gelato 41. This variety is built from the original recipe and features Sunset Sherbert and Thin Mints GSC as the parent phenos. The result is quite sensational; sweet berry and citrus flavours, a hint of cake, and a THC content between 20-28% make Gelato 41 a must-try! Flowering time is typically between 56-70 days, after which high yields of extremely resinous rock hard buds are the reward.
