The SAVVY cannabis brand is owned by Verano, a popular multi-state operator that’s been around Maryland since the medical marijuana days. SAVVY isn’t Verano’s only entry in the Maryland market, either- (the) Essence also falls under Verano’s umbrella, as does Avexia topicals and Encore Edibles. I’ve tried several strains over the years from Verano and they’ve ranged from good to decent, but they’re usually a bit pricey for the value so they aren’t my first choice. I picked up a bag of SAVVY smalls recently and thought it was pretty good and a much better value, so then I picked up half a dozen more. Here’s my favorites:
Review: Alien Breath
SAVVY’s Alien Breath is either a cross of POGO x Berry Breath or Alien OG x OOKB. Both versions reported in different places and I’ll see if I can get us a definitive answer. This strain boasts forest green buds that range in display from light to dark green hues. Alien Breath smalls are accentuated by vibrant, fiery orange pistils and spattering of trichomes that like tiny crystals under the light. As we popped opened the bag, Alien Breath released a fusion of sweet, earthy notes that was reminiscent of a mythical forest. What else does a mythical forest smell like you ask? Well, beyond the initial impression, Alien Breath also delivers a burst of citrus and zesty lemons which tickled our olfactory receptors like a mischievous fairy sprinkling aromatic pixie dust.
When smoked, SAVVY’s Alien Breath greeted us with a burst of tropical fruitiness. As the smoke danced on our taste buds and we exhaled, it morphed into a smooth and earthy flavor with a subtle touch of pine. This added depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile beyond the inhale’s pure fruit. A couple tokes in and we felt the physical relaxation which wasn’t overpowering since it was accompanied by a gentle cerebral stimulation. We felt as if we were being wrapped in a warm, hazy blanket made of pure delight.This strain felt perfect for small moments of reflection or creative projects.
Review: Pink Certz
Pink Certz was bred by Compound Genetics in a distinctive pivot from the usual candy gas fare that has more mint and fuel notes than we’ve come to expect from the average Gelato. It’s a cross of The Menthol and Grape Gasoline. While nobody’s going to brag about the buds on a bag of smalls, they are tiny buds and not a bag of shake and stems, which I appreciate. They’ve got some deep purple coloration and absolutely reek of sweet gas, too. I’m not disappointed for the price.
Most of Compound Gentics’ crosses are Jet Fuel Gelato dominant in flavor and effect, and SAVVY’s Pink Certz is no exception. It brings sweet flavors with a Sour undertone. We smoked this sample in a joint where it was a very smooth smoke. The effect was predictably relaxing but not overwhelming; perfect for a quiet night in, hanging out on the porch with the puppers and watching the planet slowly rotate.
Review: Guerilla Grape
Guerilla Grape is a cross of the Original Glue with Vino OG. Aroma wise, Guerilla Grape wastes no time in capturing our senses. As we dipped our nose into the bag, a strong medley of grape and earthy notes danced through the air in a whimsical waltz of flavors. As you give the bud a gentle squeeze, the sweetness is balanced by a subtle spiciness that adds a layer of complexity.
SAVVY’s Guerilla Grape buds stand as a testament to nature’s artistry. Upon first glance, the nugs look like they’ve been plucked from a psychedelic dreamscape, painted with shades of lavender, violet, and hints of electric orange. The interplay of crystalline trichomes and orange pistils on these densely packed nuggets is nothing short of lustrous. As we took that first inhale, we were astonished at how nice it was to not cough after every inhale! A burst of flavors coated our palate in a pleasant cacophony of sensations. Imagine savoring a spoonful of grape jelly while sitting in a field of wildflowers with a dash of herbal tea elegance. Once we finished a joint of this strain, we definitely turned into a giggling philosopher contemplating the meaning of life’s mysteries, like why do we park in driveways and drive on parkways? If you’re looking for a strain that is part zen master and part philosopher, SAVVY’s Guerilla Grape might just be your bag, baby.