Weed & Wine: How Tannins and Terpenes Compare
When it comes to indulging in our favorite vices, few things rival the pleasure of savoring a glass of wine or enjoying the effects of cannabis. But have you ever wondered if there are any similarities between these two popular substances?
Surprisingly, weed and wine share common elements that contribute to their unique experiences. And if you’ve been reading our latest terpene guides, you already know that these tiny little compounds add big flavor and effect to your cannabis experience.
Similarly, tannins add structure and body to wine, accounting for the depth, complexity, and mouthfeel. There’s more to it than that, so let’s dive into tannins and terpenes and how weed and wine are more alike than you think.
Cannabis Strains and Types of Wine
Before we dive into the similarities and differences between weed and wine, let's take a moment to understand the wide variety of cannabis strains and wine types. Just like there are different strains of cannabis, such as indica, sativa, and hybrid, there are also many types of wine grape varietals, like cabernet, sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, gamay, rosé, pinot noir, and sparkling varieties. Each strain and type offers its own distinct characteristics, flavors, and effects, making the exploration of both cannabis and wine an exciting journey of discovery.
And as we’ve been learning, labels like sativa mean so much more than just that term. Cannabis is quite complex, and within that broad label, many factors come into play that determine the flavor and effect. The same can be said for a cabernet. Not all cabernet tastes the same, and there are limitless possibilities for what will happen once its grape is harvested.
Cannabis and Wine: Similarities and Differences
Before we dig too deep into tannins and terpenes, let’s first start with a broad view of cannabis and wine and how they compare.
Terroir
One fascinating similarity between cannabis and wine is the concept of terroir. Terroir refers to the environmental factors that influence the growth and development of plants, ultimately shaping their unique flavors and aromas. In the world of wine, terroir encompasses elements like soil composition, climate, and even the slope of the vineyard. Similarly, cannabis strains are influenced by factors such as the geographic location of cultivation, sunlight exposure, and soil quality. These shared influences contribute to the distinctive characteristics found in both weed and wine.
This is a well-known (and defined) part of wine culture, and you may be familiar with the concepts already. For example, there are several champagne labels on the shelf – but they all share one thing in common – they come from the Champagne region in France.
Cannabis hasn’t quite evolved to appellation labels entirely, but it’s not far off. Soon, cannabis will be defined by the unique terroir in which it is grown, especially in regions like the Emerald Triangle.
Effects
While wine is primarily known for its intoxicating effects, cannabis is renowned for its psychoactive properties. However, both substances can elicit a range of effects on the body and mind. Wine, depending on the type and quantity consumed, can induce relaxation, uplift the spirits, or even enhance social interactions.
Cannabis, on the other hand, offers a diverse spectrum of effects, from soothing and calming to energizing and euphoric. Whether you're unwinding with a glass of wine after a long day or seeking a different kind of experience with cannabis, both can provide a sense of pleasure and well-being.
Flavors
One of the most enjoyable aspects of wine and cannabis is their distinct flavors. In the realm of wine, you'll find a wide array of flavor profiles, ranging from the peach and apricot notes of a Riesling to the robust and earthy tones of a cabernet sauvignon.
Similarly, cannabis strains offer an assortment of flavors, such as citrus, pine, berry, and even spicy undertones. Whether you prefer the delicate nuances of fine wine or the intricate flavors of a well-cultivated cannabis strain, there's a world of sensory exploration waiting to be savored.
Aromas
Just as flavors play a significant role in the enjoyment of wine and cannabis, aromas also contribute to the overall experience. When you swirl a glass of wine, you're greeted by an enchanting bouquet that tantalizes the senses. From the floral and citrusy aromas of a sauvignon blanc to the complex and oak-infused scents of a chardonnay, wine offers a captivating olfactory journey.
In the world of cannabis, terpenes are responsible for the aromatic profiles of different strains. These aromatic compounds create a symphony of scents, including fruity, skunky, diesel, and floral notes. And, as we’ve recently learned, the aroma has a pretty big impact on the overall enjoyment one gets from smoking cannabis. Taking a moment to savor the fragrances of wine or cannabis adds another layer of pleasure to the overall experience.
A Closer Look at Tannins and Terpenes
Tannins play a crucial role in shaping the characteristics and overall experience of wine. They are a group of organic compounds mainly found in the skins, seeds, and stems of grapes and are more prominent in red wines compared to white wines. Tannins are also present in other foods and beverages, such as tea and dark chocolate. So, what exactly do tannins do, and how does it relate to the experience of terpenes in cannabis?
Flavor, Depth, Complexity
Tannins provide structure and body to the wine. For example, young cabernets may create a sensation of astringency or dryness in the mouth, which is often described as a slight puckering or gripping feeling. However, higher end cabernets may have a luxurious velvety mouthfeel. This textural element adds depth and complexity to the wine, enhancing the overall experience.
They are responsible for the aging potential of many red wines. When present in the right balance, tannins can help wines age gracefully over time. As the wine matures, tannins gradually soften, leading to a smoother and more harmonious flavor profile.
While flavonoids contribute to cannabis’ color, tannins lend a hand to color stability for wine by binding with pigments in the grape skins, intensifying the wine's red hue. Much like terpenes, they influence the overall taste, enhancing and complementing the wine’s flavor profile. This is similar to terpenes and cannabinoids harmonizing together in the entourage effect.
And, of course, there are food pairings. The presence of tannins in wine makes it a great companion for pairing with food. The astringency of tannins helps to cleanse the palate, cutting through the richness and fattiness of certain dishes. For example, tannic red wine pairs well with fatty meats like steak, as the tannins help balance the flavors and textures.
While there are plenty of foods that might pair well with cannabis, we mostly associate cannabis with inspiring our appetites all around and making anything we nosh on take that much more decadent.
A Perfect Pairing
You may not be surprised to find out that wine has its own terpene profile. And just like cannabis, each varietal is entirely nuanced. You know those notes of rosemary, lavender, or rose in your wine? Yep – those are from terpenes! Some wines have more pronounced profiles than others, especially Côtes du Rhône, Muscat Blanc, Gewürztraminer, and Merlot.
Because cannabis and wine both have bold, yet often complementary flavors, pairing them is not only simpler than you might, but also quite fun! Experimentation is key. For wine enthusiasts who enjoy cannabis, exploring different strains alongside specific wines can create intriguing flavor combinations. For example, a bold cabernet sauvignon may pair well with a cannabis strain rich in myrcene, a terpene known for its earthy and herbal characteristics.
Conversely, a light and fruity pinot noir might complement a cannabis strain with citrus or berry undertones. The possibilities are endless, and finding the perfect harmony between tannins and terpenes can elevate the enjoyment of both substances.
Taste Your Cannabis
Similar to wine tasting, cannabis enthusiasts can also indulge in the art of cannabis tasting. When exploring different strains, take the time to examine the appearance, smell the aromas, and savor the flavors. Engage your senses and pay attention to the nuances that each strain offers. Just as wine connoisseurs develop a discerning palate over time, cannabis enthusiasts can also refine their ability to appreciate the complexities of different strains.
If you missed our first cannabis-tasting event, keep an eye on your email for our next one! Be sure to snag a spot, as we sold out last time. Check out the event recap and prepare to taste some of the finest offerings from our entire Cream of the Crop collection.