Pairing wine with cannabis might seem like an unconventional choice, but trust us, it's a match made in heaven. Red, white, or rose, indica, sativa, or hybrid, The right cannabis and wine pairing can elevate both these sumptuous treats, creating a sensory experience that is truly unforgettable. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a cannabis enthusiast, you will surely appreciate combining these two indulgences' unique flavours and aromas.
Thanks to the wide variety of terpenes involved in wine and cannabis (yes, wine contains those magical terpenes we’re always trumpeting!), there’s a cavalcade of possibilities when it comes to creating taste combinations between wine and cannabis, an almost-never-ending list of aromas and flavours that pair effortlessly with different types of wine. Navigating this ocean of olfactory options can seem like a minefield, but a little understanding can help make it easier. Terpenes are responsible for the smell and taste of your cannabis, but they’re also responsible for the sweet, fruity, floral or spicy notes in your wine.
Wine enthusiasts may balk at this notion, but a good dispensary budtender is similar to a sommelier in many ways; they’ll match or contrast the flavour profiles of strains with a keen sense of understanding to help you find the best blends for your palate.
Cannabis And Wine - Common Allies?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of pairing wine with cannabis, let's first discuss the different types of cannabis strains. There are two primary types of cannabis: indica and sativa. Indica strains are more relaxing and often associated with a "body high." In contrast, sativa strains are known for their uplifting and energizing effects. Hybrid strains, a combination of indica and sativa, are also widely available.
Wine and cannabis ultimately lead to a degree of intoxication – albeit pleasant if moderation is applied – so it’s essential to understand how each affects the body. Wine is made from grapes, which contain a natural hormone called melatonin. Melatonin is known for regulating sleep and wake cycles in humans. While the melatonin levels in wine are relatively low, they may still have a calming effect on the body. Many people report red wine, particularly, to have a sedative effect, so combining a red with an indica could make for a short evening if you’re of a lower tolerance!
On the other hand, cannabis contains cannabinoids, the most well-known of which is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC is the compound responsible for the "high" associated with cannabis use. It binds to brain and nervous system receptors, which can affect mood, appetite, and pain perception.
When pairing wine with cannabis, you'll want to consider the effects of each strain and the flavour profiles of both the wine and the cannabis. Crisp, white wines are typically light and citrusy - Rieslings, Zinfandels, Sauvingon Blancs and so on tend to pair best with sativas thanks to the fruity refreshing qualities of each. Red blends like Merlots, Malbecs, Cabernet Suavignons and so on marry nicely with indica strains - but it’s a matter of personal preference. Here are a few wine varietals and cannabis pairings to get you started:
1. Pinot Noir and Indica
Pinot Noir is a light-bodied red wine that pairs well with various foods, including chicken, pork, and seafood. This wine is known for its fruity and earthy flavours, which make it an excellent pairing for indica strains. Indica strains are often associated with flavours like berries, spices, and earthy tones, which complement the flavours of the wine. The relaxing effects of the indica strain also pair well with the laid-back nature of a good Pinot Noir.
2. Merlot and Indica
Merlot is a red loved for its black cherry flavours and sometime-chocolatey finish. It’s often paired with beef dishes, or lighter-tasting meats such as pork, as the wine won’t overwhelm the flavour of the meat. It’ll sit nicely with rich indica or a kush, which, whilst heavy in effects, will often offer flavours that compliment Merlot nicely.
3. Sauvignon Blanc and Sativa
Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp, acidic white wine often associated with citrus and green apple flavours. This wine is an excellent choice for pairing with sativa strains known for their energizing effects. The citrusy notes in the wine complement the flavours of sativa strains, which often have hints of lemon or lime. This pairing is perfect for a sunny day spent lounging outside or an afternoon pick-me-up.
4. Chardonnay and Hybrid
Chardonnay is a rich, full-bodied white wine that pairs well with various foods, including seafood, poultry, and pasta dishes. This wine is often associated with flavours like vanilla, oak, and butter, which make it a good pairing for hybrid strains. Hybrid strains can have a wide range of tastes and effects, depending on the specific strain, but the richness of a good Chardonnay can balance out the intensity of some hybrid strains.
5. Cabernet Sauvignon and Indica
Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine often associated with flavours like black currant, blackberry, and cedar. This wine is a good pairing for indica strains, which often have earthy and spicy flavours. The wine's full-bodied nature complements the indica strain's relaxing effects, making this a perfect pairing for a night in with friends.
Maximising Flavours
To get the most out of the experience from a flavour point of view, the way you consume your cannabis needs careful consideration. If you smoke cannabis using combustible means, know that flavour is immediately compromised. For this reason, using a dry herb vape is the way to get the most out of the experience from a taste perspective. Terpenes – the oils responsible for the delicious aromas and flavours of cannabis – are highly volatile and sensitive to heat, meaning combustion can destroy them quickly.
Since many vaporizers allow you to control the temperature, you can set it to a lower heat. You can stop short of damaging terpenes, enjoy a more decadent taste experience, and produce what some people insist is a clearer, less intoxicating high. Just the thing if you’re combining cannabis with another substance, i.e. alcohol.
How To Stay Safe When Pairing Wine And Cannabis
When it comes to pairing wine with cannabis, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, there’s more to this than combining delicious flavours, so knowing your limits is essential. Both wine and cannabis can impair your judgment and coordination, so enjoy them, but enjoy them responsibly. Even if you’re a seasoned pro at this, and have a high tolerance for both substances, don’t be tempted to guzzle wine like it’s going out of fashion while blazing joint after joint. More likely than not, you’ll spend much of the evening snoring into the rug.
Crossfading – the art of mixing two substances to combine the effects of each – is an art that requires you to exercise caution. Starting with a couple of glasses of wine and then hitting the bong is a recipe for disaster. This is because drinking before smoking can seriously ramp up the effects of THC. You’re more likely to spend the evening incapacitated than having any sort of party, so avoid this approach at all costs. Instead, start with a sip or two and move on to a puff. It’s a long game that should be played slowly and in moderation throughout the evening. Plus, if you rush it or indulge in vast amounts of each substance, you’re far less likely to catch the subtlety of the flavour combination. The only thing you’re guaranteed to get out of the experience with this approach is totally trashed.
While it’s tempting to combine wine with edibles for flavour, remember that edibles have a much slower onset. It’s a fact that chocolate and wine make for a smooth combination, but a couple of glasses might pass before the edible kicks in, leaving you heavily impaired.
Secondly, don't be afraid to experiment. Wine and cannabis are both complex substances, with countless combinations to try. Don't be scared to mix and match different strains and wines to find the perfect pairing for your taste buds.
Finally, remember to have fun! Wine and cannabis are both indulgences that are meant to be enjoyed - whether you're sipping a glass of Pinot Noir, puffing on quality cannabis, or both.
