Why so many menu names sound like desserts, what they usually mean and how to look past the marketing.
The sweet naming trend
Look at a modern coffeeshop menu and you will see names that sound like ice cream, cakes and sweets. That is not an accident. Names are part of the marketing, and dessert-style names have been popular for years.
Where they come from
Many of these strains were bred from a small group of popular parents, and their names were chosen to stand out. As breeders crossed the same lines, families of similar strains grew up, all with related flavours and sweet aromas.
What the name tells you
- Flavour. Usually sweet, fruity or creamy.
- Family. The name may show which line it comes from.
- Not the effect. A sweet name says little about how strong it is or how it feels.
Why they dominate
These strains are popular with customers, easy to grow well and sell for good prices. Growers respond to demand, so shops stock what sells. That makes menus feel similar from one shop to the next.
How to look past the name
- Ask about strength and effect, not just flavour.
- Compare with an older classic to see the difference.
- Try a small amount before committing.
- Be aware that the same name can mean slightly different plants in different shops.
Trying something different
If every name looks the same, ask for a classic or a landrace-style strain. See how the dessert era began and browse the strain library.
A word on strength
Sweet does not mean mild. Many of these are strong, so start small, especially if you are new.