The Cannabis Cup helped make Amsterdam the centre of cannabis breeding. Here is how it began and what such contests mean.
A contest with influence
The Cannabis Cup began in Amsterdam in the late 1980s, organised by a cannabis magazine. It invited growers and coffeeshops to enter their best flower and hash and let judges vote. Over time it became a highlight of the cannabis calendar and helped launch famous strains.
What it did
- Raised the profile of breeders. Winning could make a strain famous overnight.
- Encouraged quality. Competition pushed growers to improve.
- Attracted visitors. Many people travelled to Amsterdam for the event.
- Shaped taste. The strains that won influenced what shops stocked.
How judging works
Contests differ, but typically judges taste entries and score them on appearance, aroma, flavour and effect. Some award categories for flower, hash and other products.
Cups today
The event has moved and changed over the years, and similar competitions and awards now take place in several countries and in the Netherlands. Details, dates and organisers change, so check current sources.
Beyond flower
Contests also judge hash and other products, which has helped raise the profile of skilled hash makers. Some winners become well known for a particular technique or region, and shops proudly display the awards on their walls and menus.
How to read a winning label
- A prize can be a good sign, but tastes differ.
- Check the year and category, as claims are sometimes vague.
- Try it yourself before deciding.
Why it matters
Contests like this helped turn Amsterdam into a global centre of cannabis culture. Many famous strains trace their fame to a win. See the 1990s for the story of that era.