Wine has always been celebrated for its complex aromas—ranging from floral and fruity to earthy and spicy. But in recent years, a curious crossover has emerged between two worlds once considered far apart: wine and cannabis. The bridge between them? Terpenes.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including grapes and cannabis. They’re responsible for the signature scents and flavors that define both a juicy Sauvignon Blanc and a pungent cannabis flower. Common terpenes include:
Myrcene – Earthy, musky, with hints of cloves. Found in hops, thyme, mangoes, and cannabis.
Linalool – Floral and lavender-like, often present in both wine and cannabis.
Caryophyllene – Spicy and peppery, found in black pepper, cloves, and cannabis.
Limonene – Citrusy and bright, a key player in lemons, oranges, and some white wines.
Each grape variety carries its own terpene profile, influencing the nose and palate of the wine. Interestingly, many of the same terpenes found in cannabis are also present in wine, which explains why some wines can have surprisingly “green,” herbal, or even weed-like notes.
When Wine Smells Like Weed
Wine lovers may occasionally detect a subtle cannabis-like aroma in their glass. This is no accident—it’s the result of shared terpenes, especially myrcene and beta-caryophyllene. Certain Sauvignon Blancs from New Zealand, for example, are famously aromatic and can sometimes exhibit these pungent, herbaceous characteristics.
Similarly, red varietals like Syrah or Zinfandel, which lean into spicier, earthy profiles, may also give off cannabis-adjacent notes thanks to their overlapping terpene structure.
Winemakers Embracing the Terpene Trend
As cannabis legalization spreads globally, the stigma around weed is fading—and curiosity is growing. Some winemakers are leaning into this sensory crossover, crafting wines that deliberately highlight terpene-driven profiles. While it’s not about adding cannabis to wine (in most cases), it’s about celebrating the naturally occurring compounds that both plants share.
Cannabis-Infused Wines: A New Frontier
Beyond terpene similarities, a niche but growing segment of the beverage market is exploring cannabis-infused wines. These are typically dealcoholized wines infused with THC or CBD, offering the relaxation of cannabis with the sophistication of a fine wine. Though not widely available due to regulatory hurdles, they represent a bold fusion of two ancient rituals—drinking wine and consuming cannabis.
Tasting the Connection
If you want to explore the world of wine terpenes, here are a few tips:
Smell deeply: Before sipping, swirl your wine and take a few intentional sniffs. Note any earthy, herbal, or citrusy tones.
Compare to cannabis: If you’re familiar with cannabis strains, think about how the scent of a particular wine might remind you of a favorite cultivar.
Try a terpene wheel: Just like a wine aroma wheel, a terpene wheel can help identify the specific compounds you’re detecting.
Experiment with pairings: Some enthusiasts experiment with pairing wine and cannabis, focusing on matching or contrasting terpene profiles. (Be cautious and responsible with this, especially considering the effects of combining alcohol and THC.)
Conclusion
The intersection of wine and cannabis is more than a trend—it’s a sensory exploration rooted in science. Terpenes are nature’s aromatic fingerprint, and when they appear in both your glass of wine and your cannabis strain, it’s a reminder of the interconnectedness of the plant world.
Whether you’re a wine aficionado, a cannabis enthusiast, or just someone with a curious nose, exploring the terpene overlap can unlock a deeper appreciation for both.
Have you ever noticed a wine that smells a little “green”? Share your favorites or thoughts below!
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