Shawn DeNae
CEO
Washington Bud Company
Smokey Point, WA
A basic need in life, I believe, is to be acknowledged, affirmed and appreciated. While our company tends to shun high-profile contests sponsored by national marijuana publications where the winners seem to mimic the list of advertisers, we instead chose to compete in local, blind contests.
Last November, we decided to enter the Craft Cup organized by the Washington Sungrowers Industry Association (WSIA). We anguished over which strains to enter. It was like having to choose which of your children get to go out and play, so we ended up submitting samples from each of our eight strains.
The five factors of most flower contests revolve around appearance, fragrance, taste, smoothness and effect. The judges were chosen from store managers, budtenders and local influencers. They all received a one-gram, indoor-grown nug in unbranded packaging with no strain names and no indica/sativa clues.
Reading the judges’ feedback made us burst with pride:
“A dense, thick bud. Just generally happy and joyous in mood. Would recommend, would seek out producer!” was said about our Blackberry Kush.
Afghani Hashplant feedback included, “This was a great representation of what I think when I think Indica. Earthy dank flavor and aroma which I seem to personally prefer. Great strain.”
“My top 3 for smells alone, not even just in this competition. This was a feel-good flower with very bubbly effects. It was delicious and smooth to the last puff. I was also impressed at how white the ash was on this one. Very clean. 10/10 I would smoke this again… and again…again,” said a new fan of our new Dutch Treat Haze strain.
Our Harlequin was the CBD winner and had comments like, “Definitely quality flower. Smoked great with a not too dry texture. Can definitely feel the hint of THC in there, but I don’t feel overly high or nonfunctional. Very enjoyable weed for an early morning where you still need to get some work done.”
Gorilla Girl, Pure Kush and Purple Sour Diesel all received great reviews too.
And then for Sky Master: “The buds were unreal gorgeous. Almost silver with beautiful light orange hairs. The high was bright and clear and glorious. Absolutely perfect buds, smells, and effects. Definitely curious which strain this is, ‘cause I want to buy some!”
The compliments filled an Excel spreadsheet — and our hearts! It also made me realize how much we take for granted our head grower, Seth Wagenseller. I suppose the fact that he is our son plays a factor in that. But he is here seven days a week, bringing our grandkids over on the weekends while he works. Seth’s dedication to the garden is admirable and his ability to coax the best from each of our strains is an artform. His quality work is the foundation that supports nine households with good paying jobs. Seth is invaluable and we love him dearly.
Thank you, Seth. Acknowledged! Affirmed! Appreciated!