Following the Emerald Green Road: Northern California’s Cannabis Culture Heads to Wine Country
BY CARLY FISHER
Northern California’s contribution to the American wine scene is well-documented, but its equally significant cannabis culture is finally receiving its flowers. Nearly a decade after the legalization of recreational cannabis, the region’s cannabis culture is blossoming from the Bay to Emerald Triangle, an area encompassing Humboldt, Mendocino and Trinity counties. This astronomic growth has prompted the creation of a nine-county Cannabis Trail and development of a cannabis appellation program by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), mirrored after the American Viticultural Area (AVA) system. Somewhat similar to the AVA system, the goal of this new initiative is to underscore the importance of sun-grown cannabis and genetic heritage....
Sonoma: The Land of Grapes and Genetics
Sonoma County, with its rich agricultural heritage that includes 19 unique AVAs growing more than 60 grape varieties, is also a hotspot for cannabis genetics and innovation. This is the birthplace of cookie strains, plus coveted compounds like GlitterBomb and Pink Jesus. The latter is a temperamental cultivar and fan favorite—not unlike Pinot Noir—from Sonoma Hills Farm, the very first OCal organic certified cannabis farm in California. It’s led by Aaron Keefer, the former culinary gardener for the French Laundry. Meanwhile, Garden Society, a Northern California cannabis brand, taps into the wine country vibe with gummies touting inspired flavors like tart cherry Pinot Noir, peach Prosecco and sparkling strawberry rosé.
Santa Rosa is home to the bulk of noteworthy dispensaries showcasing local and sustainable cannabis products, reflecting the area’s commitment to quality and community. Check out small-batch cannabis with Sun+Earth and biodynamic certifications from hyper-local farms at Solful in Sebastopol and Santa Rosa. Also stop by Jane, an award-winning, woman-owned dispensary with locations in Cotati and Santa Rosa, plus a soon-to-open outpost in Healdsburg with an unmatched selection of premium brands in a luxury shopping space.
