Grape Soda

Grape Soda is a fruity, indica-dominant hybrid that boasts considerable bag appeal. Created by Oregon-based growing operation Taste Budz (not to be confused with the Colorado dispensary franchise of the same name), this strain is a distinct phenotype of SFV Kush-descended Tahoe OG. It offers a hazy, stress-killing high that’s great for nighttime relaxation. Grape Soda’s THC content ranges from 20% to 30%.

Grape Soda is distinguished by its large, chunky flowers that cling together in rounded and elongated columns, looking somewhat like miniature bullets. These buds show off a blended internal structure with a dense, indica-typical inner core and long, sativa-like leaves that twist outward in folds, giving the flowers the appearance of brain coral. The leaves themselves are an eye-catching mix of sage green and deep indigo, with the latter colors coming from high concentrations of the pigment anthocyanin. Finally, corkscrewed orange pistils and dewy, translucent trichomes cap off these colorful nuggets.

As you might expect, Grape Soda’s primary aroma is that of fresh, ripe grapes — notably, though, this scent is coincidental to the flowers’ purple coloring. A deeper whiff may pick up on some other fruity notes like orange and berry. Grinding up or breaking apart these flowers, meanwhile, yields more of a skunky tang. When it’s burnt, Grape Soda gives off a smoke that is thick and heavy but nevertheless fruity and easy to ingest. On the exhale, this smoke leaves behind a robust grape flavor.

The high from Grape Soda can creep up slowly, sometimes not hitting the user some 10 to 15 minutes after they’ve smoked. When they do arrive, effects hit hard, exerting an increased blood pressure around the temples and lower forehead; consumers may also experience some flushing in the cheeks or an increase in salivation. Once these tics subside, users will have access to a warped mental state in which their thoughts seem to have a new dimension or intensity; ideas that might not otherwise strike them can suddenly become fascinating, while certain words or other stimuli can trigger bouts of free association. This cerebral activation can help facilitate intense brainstorming sessions. Alternatively, smokers can simply enjoy Grape Soda’s mental buzz as they get through a boring day’s agenda.

But take heed — within about an hour, Grape Soda’s mental edge gives way to a relaxed, sluggish feeling. Consumers who are out and about might find themselves making a mad dash for home while those who are lucky enough to be kicking it at home may start to melt into their surroundings. Although this strain’s mental stimulation may persist for the duration of the high, smokers may be stripped of some prior motivation and may be able to do little more than daydream. Because of its eventual descent into sedation, Grape Soda is recommended for evening or nighttime use.

Grape Soda’s soothing somatic effects can have several applications for medical cannabis patients. For one, its ability to improve mood can make the strain a solid way to take the edge off of symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety. Grape Soda may also dull physical pain, even the kind that’s due to chronic conditions like arthritis or COPD. Anti-inflammatory properties, meanwhile, can take the sting out of mild discomforts like headaches or nausea. In a totally comfortable set and setting, this bud may even put users to sleep, making it a viable treatment for insomnia. Thanks to its lower-than-average risk of paranoid, obsessive thinking patterns, Grape Soda is a good option for patients who have a low THC tolerance or who are prone to panic.

Unfortunately for prospective gardeners, seeds of Grape Soda have not been cultivated for commercial sale. Instead, those looking to grow the strain at home may be able to obtain clippings from mature plants in order to foster “clones.” These can be grown indoors or out, with outdoor success depending on a hot, humid climate. Plants tend to have a squat, bushy silhouette with solid, sideways-growing branches. Grape Soda flowers within a relatively brief 8 to 9 weeks when grown indoors.

Packing a serious THC punch, Grape Soda is sure to win over even seasoned cannabis consumers. It’s just the thing for zoning out after a long day or week of work.