Cherry Wine
The Wife × Charlotte's Cherries
Cherry Wine is a hybrid cultivar developed during the early wave of American hemp breeding following the 2014 Farm Bill. It was bred to combine high CBD content with appealing aromas and flavors, quickly becoming popular for its distinct cherry and pepper notes and calming effects.
Appearance
Cherry Wine typically develops medium-sized, conical colas with dense calyxes. The buds are usually a lively green, interspersed with darker forest green patches and accented by vibrant orange pistils. A generous coating of trichomes gives the flowers a frosty appearance, indicating significant resin production. Some phenotypes may display subtle purple hues under cooler temperatures.
Buds are often plump and rounded, especially in the later stages of flowering. The appearance is further enhanced by a sheen that suggests good terpene retention. Trimmed nugs are commonly uniform in size, suitable for craft markets, and often retain a sugar-leaf edge to preserve trichome heads.
Aroma & Flavor
True to its name, Cherry Wine presents a dominant aroma of sweet red fruit, reminiscent of ripe cherries and dark berries. This is complemented by a spicy, peppery undertone, evoking notes of black pepper and clove. Underlying earthy and pine notes provide a grounding balance, preventing the profile from becoming overly sweet.
When ground, the cherry aroma intensifies, sometimes revealing hints of cherry cola and a subtle creaminess. An herbal lift, similar to thyme or tarragon, can also be detected, particularly in well-cured indoor batches. The overall flavor profile mirrors the aroma, offering a complex blend of fruit, spice, and earth.
Effects
Cherry Wine is known for providing a sense of calm without significant intoxication. The name references a relaxing, wine-like mood, distinct from the psychoactive effects of high-THC cannabis. This profile makes it suitable for users seeking relaxation and a gentle unwinding experience.
Terpenes & Cannabinoids
This cultivar is primarily characterized by its high CBD content and low THC levels, often achieving CBD:THC ratios of 20:1 or higher when harvested appropriately. This chemotype is often referred to as Type III. The terpene profile is notable for caryophyllene, contributing to its peppery notes, and humulene, adding woody undertones. Other terpenes contribute to the fruity and earthy complexities.
Growing
Cherry Wine is generally considered a reliable cultivar for hemp cultivation, with breeders focusing on consistency and compliance. It produces dense buds with good resin content, making it suitable for various markets, including smokable flower and extracts. Proper harvesting timing is crucial to maintain low THC levels.
Origins & Lineage
Cherry Wine originated from crosses involving high-CBD strains, specifically The Wife and Charlotte’s Cherries. The Wife is known for its CBD-rich expression and calming effects, while Charlotte’s Cherries contributes fruit-forward aromas and helps stabilize the CBD-dominant nature. The breeding goal was to create a compliant hemp strain with desirable sensory attributes.