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Leaf Picks

Massachusetts

Grenadine Temple Ball

from Sweetgrass Botanicals

Balanced by subtle tartness and a smooth, sugary finish reminiscent of a classic Shirley Temple.

Sweetgrass Botanicals has become a standout name in New England’s evolving Cannabis scene, blending traditional craft with a forward-thinking approach. Built on a foundation of quality, community and education, Sweetgrass offers a curated selection of premium Cannabis products in an environment designed to be welcoming and inclusive. Beyond retail, they foster a deeper connection to the plant, hosting events where herbalists, hash makers and regenerative farming experts share insights into Cannabis science and sustainable practices.

At the heart of Sweetgrass’ reputation is hash maker Benjamin McCabe, whose expertise in solventless extraction earned the company first place in the Licensed Facility Non-Solvent Concentrate category at this year’s NECANN Cup in Boston in March. His award-winning work highlights Sweetgrass’ commitment to preserving the craftsmanship of traditional Cannabis concentrates while embracing modern innovation.

Among their celebrated offerings is the Grenadine Live Temple Ball, a contemporary take on one of Cannabis’s oldest concentrate forms. Temple balls, historically crafted in the Himalayan regions, are hand-rolled, resin-rich spheres known for their smooth, complex effects and exceptional aging potential. Sweetgrass’ version, made with fresh-frozen Cannabis and meticulous curing techniques, delivers a vibrant, terpene-forward experience suited to today’s discerning consumer.

The strain behind this standout concentrate, Grenadine, is a flavorful hybrid of Cherry Garcia and Crescendo. Its dense, colorful buds offer a rich aroma of ripe cherries and creamy vanilla, setting the stage for a smoking experience that is both nostalgic and refined. On the inhale, Grenadine bursts with bright, sweet cherry notes, balanced by subtle tartness and a smooth, sugary finish reminiscent of a classic Shirley Temple. For flavor-focused consumers, Grenadine is a must-try, offering an exceptional blend of taste, aroma, and potency.

The Grenadine Live Temple Ball showcases this flavor in concentrated form. The exterior glistens with a polished resin sheen, and breaking it open reveals a pliable interior rich with complex aromatics. Smoked traditionally, the hash produces silky, flavorful clouds that mirror the flower’s sweet, fruity notes with an added earthy richness. The effects are deeply relaxing yet mentally clear, highlighting the full-spectrum benefits of traditional solventless hash.

How to Enjoy Temple Ball Hash

Temple ball hash is versatile but rewards patience and technique. Traditionally, small pieces are gently warmed between the fingers until pliable, then crumbled or rolled into thin “snakes” for smoking.

Popular methods include:

  • Mixed with flower: Blend softened hash into ground flower for a richer, smoother bowl or joint.
  • Hash pipe or chillum: For a traditional experience, smoke it in a small hash pipe or chillum for full-bodied, flavorful hits.

Whichever method you choose, using gentle heat and lower temperatures helps preserve the hash’s complex terpene profile and smooth effects.

Personal Note

As someone who has long admired the tradition and craftsmanship behind temple ball hash, experiencing Sweetgrass’ Grenadine Live Temple Ball was a genuine pleasure. I chose to enjoy it mixed with flower in a classic chillum, allowing the hash’s full flavor and smooth resin profile to shine through with each puff. The experience delivered vibrant bursts of sweet cherry layered with rich, earthy notes, wrapped in a silky, easy smoke. Each session offered not just a bold flavor but also a deeper connection to the centuries-old artistry that first sparked my love for solventless concentrates. Sweetgrass’ careful preparation and respect for tradition shine through every aspect of this product. Smoking the Grenadine Live Temple Ball wasn’t just enjoyable; it was a powerful reminder of why temple ball hash remains one of the purest and most satisfying expressions of Cannabis today.

shopsweetgrass.com | @sweetgrass.solventless | @sweetgrass_botanicals_lee

This article was originally published in the May 2025 issue of Northeast Leaf.

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