As ShopMarijuana.com, the leading cannabis business marketplace and B2B directory network, we are thrilled to bring you an in-depth coverage of The Emerald Cup 2023. Our team, including Robbie K. Everydayallday, Mikey Martini, and Damien Jennings, had the honor of attending this prestigious event as invited media, and we are excited to share all the captivating details with you.
The Emerald Cup, held on May 13, 2023, at the Craneway Pavilion in Richmond, California, celebrated its 19th awards show in grand style. Known for its deep roots in the heart of Northern California's cannabis region, the Emerald Triangle, this event is a true highlight for the cannabis community.
At ShopMarijuana.com, we were not only present to witness the excitement but also actively covered the event. ShopMarijuana.com, also known as SMJ, stands as a reliable source for all cannabis-related news and updates. We are proud to have captured the most thrilling moments of The Emerald Cup and have shared multiple clips on our various platforms, including our YouTube channel, Facebook page, Facebook group, SocialClub, and other social networks. Make sure to explore our channels for exclusive footage and behind-the-scenes glimpses.
The event was truly star-studded, and we had the pleasure of meeting remarkable personalities in the industry. Robbie K. Everydayallday from ShopMarijuana.com, along with his associates Mikey Martini and Damien Jennings, were present at The Emerald Cup to cover the event from start to finish. Their dedication and expertise in the cannabis industry allowed them to capture the essence of this extraordinary gathering.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presence of Mila, the Queen of Hash, who graced the event to receive a well-deserved lifetime achievement award. Mila's contributions to the world of hash alchemy are unparalleled, and her presence added a touch of elegance and reverence to the ceremony.
Now, let's dive into the fascinating world of The Emerald Cup 2023. This event has come a long way since its inception, evolving from a sun-grown flower competition to a comprehensive showcase of nearly 50 categories. We had the pleasure of speaking with the founder of The Emerald Cup, Tim Blake, who shared insights into the event's growth over the years. From a humble beginning with seven judges, the competition now boasts close to 100 judges meticulously evaluating the entries.
The competition at The Emerald Cup was fierce, with heavy hitters from both the legal and legacy markets vying for recognition. Out of hundreds of applicants, making it to the top 10 was a remarkable feat. The judging process, conducted anonymously, focused on various aspects such as quality, smoothness, and overall effect.
The California cannabis industry has faced significant regulatory challenges in recent years. However, The Emerald Cup served as a beacon of hope, with industry professionals demonstrating resilience and determination for a brighter future. The passion and dedication showcased by these entrepreneurs are truly heroic, as they have overcome countless obstacles to bring their products to the market.
Tim Blake emphasized the need for regulatory reform to support the cannabis industry in California. According to him, excessive taxes and burdensome regulations have hampered the growth of the industry. He firmly believes that federal legalization, along with the opening of interstate and international commerce, will provide much-needed relief and opportunities for cannabis farmers.
Now, let's turn our attention to the winners who emerged triumphant at The Emerald Cup 2023. Among the standout winners was Fig Farms' Blue Face, an in-house bred cultivar that claimed the coveted 1st place in the Indoor Flower category and also secured the prestigious Best In Show award. Fig Farms, founded by Chloe Healy and Keith Healy, is synonymous with meticulous growing processes and the pursuit of unique strains that set them apart. It was an incredible honor for Fig Farms to be recognized for their life's work, as Keith Healy expressed his gratitude for the recognition.
The competition in the indoor flower category was intense, with notable strains like Gas Face by Sense, French Alps by Cannabiotix, French Laundry by Maven Genetics, and Watermelon Punch by Decibel Gardens making it to the top 10. The level of craftsmanship and innovation displayed by these cultivators was truly exceptional.
Southern Humboldt County made a strong presence at the 19th annual show, with Ridgeline Farms' Lantz winning 1st place for Mixed Light and also securing the prestigious 1st place Breeders Cup award. Jason Gellman, the founder of Ridgeline Farms, shared his excitement and pride in winning among such talented growers. Lantz is the result of years of dedication and a meticulous breeding process, making it a true labor of love for Gellman and his family.
As the evening progressed, it became evident that The Emerald Cup has expanded its categories over the years to meet consumer demand and reflect the diversity of the industry. The core values of regenerative and organic-centered practices remained at the forefront, with Humboldt, Mendocino, Trinity, and Nevada Counties being well-represented. The winners in the regenerative farming category showcased the benefits of sustainable practices and highlighted the importance of environmentally conscious cultivation.
Sol Spirit Farm, located in Trinity County, took home 1st Place for its stunning bud LMNT in the 3rd Party Certified Flower category. Their commitment to Sun and Earth Certification, a 3rd party certification option for cannabis growers, demonstrated their dedication to producing high-quality, environmentally friendly products. The picturesque setting of Sol Spirit Farm, nestled along a river, provided visitors with a unique opportunity to experience award-winning weed firsthand.
In the realm of solventless infused pre-rolls, Rosin Tech Labs claimed 1st place with their hash-infused creations featuring a combination of rosin and flower from Luma Farms. The commitment of Rosin Tech Labs to be an active part of the cannabis community shone through in their exceptional products.
Rebel Grown, with their Double Chem #15, emerged as the winner for Sungrown flower, showcasing their mastery of outdoor cultivation. However, the crowning moment of the evening came with the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Mila Jansen, the Hash Queen. Her groundbreaking work in hash alchemy has left an indelible mark on the industry, and this recognition was truly well-deserved.
The Emerald Cup also celebrated innovation in product development. Rainbow Cheddar Flower, a collaborative creation by Compound Genetics, Node Labs, The Original Resinator, and Industry Processing Solutions, won the Most Innovative Product award. The A Pot for Pot 5 Gallon Complete cannabis grow kit took home the award for Most Innovative Product in Industry Assets, highlighting its unique approach to helping enthusiasts cultivate their own cannabis.
The winners' circle continued to impress with Emerald Spirit Botanicals' Pink Boost Goddess winning 1st place for Most Unique Terpene Profile. Queen Mary claimed the award for Most Health Conscious Edible, while Space Gems' Sour Spacedrops emerged as the top choice in the Edibles Gummies category. Fully Melted x Alien Labs' Zkittlez secured the highly coveted 1st place in the Rosin concentrates category, showcasing the excellence of both brands.
As Taylor Blake, Associate Producer of The Emerald Cup, reflected on the event's evolution, she highlighted the growth of the indoor flower category and the increased participation in categories such as solventless cartridges, gummies, and alternative cannabinoid flowers. Taylor expressed a desire to see more entries in the tincture category, emphasizing the disruptive potential it holds for the industry.
Throughout the event, attendees had the opportunity to explore a vibrant marketplace, featuring a wide array of cannabis products, accessories, and educational resources. From innovative vaporizers to sustainable packaging solutions, the marketplace showcased the industry's commitment to progress and sustainability.
The Emerald Cup also provided a platform for thought-provoking discussions and educational panels. Experts and industry leaders shared insights on topics ranging from regenerative farming practices to the evolving legal landscape of cannabis. Attendees had the chance to engage with these thought leaders, expand their knowledge, and gain a deeper understanding of the industry's past, present, and future.
One of the highlights of the event was the panel discussion on the social equity movement within the cannabis industry. Esteemed speakers emphasized the importance of inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunities for all. They discussed the challenges faced by marginalized communities and explored strategies to ensure a more equitable and just cannabis industry.
The atmosphere at The Emerald Cup was electric, with live music performances, art installations, and a sense of camaraderie that could be felt throughout the venue. Attendees mingled, shared stories, and formed connections, fostering a strong sense of community among cannabis enthusiasts, industry professionals, and advocates alike.
As the event drew to a close, it was evident that The Emerald Cup had once again proven itself as the pinnacle of cannabis culture and innovation. The winners proudly displayed their trophies, representing the culmination of their hard work, passion, and dedication to the plant.
ShopMarijuana.com was honored to be a part of The Emerald Cup and witness the incredible talent and creativity within the cannabis community. We applaud all the winners and participants for their contributions to the industry and their commitment to excellence.
In conclusion, The Emerald Cup 2023 was a celebration of the best that the cannabis industry has to offer. From world-class cultivators to groundbreaking products and thought-provoking discussions, the event showcased the evolution and diversity of cannabis culture. As ShopMarijuana.com, we are excited to continue supporting and promoting the remarkable individuals and companies that make the cannabis industry thrive.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners, and we look forward to the continued growth and success of the industry. Together, let's shape a future where cannabis is embraced, celebrated, and appreciated for its immense potential. Stay tuned for more exciting updates, product releases, and events from ShopMarijuana.com, your trusted destination for premium cannabis products.
Bonus Footage
We met up with Sellassie one of the performers at the ECA 2023
