After a big year, including bringing back an Ego Clash belt from Spain, we reached out to New York’s Santa Hash to chat about his process, the win and what’s next for this emergent hash maker shaking up the East Coast Cannabis scene. His collaborations with brands like Marijuantuak Gardens, New Amsterdam Cannabis, Semper Frosty and Epiphany NY reflect a consistent commitment to working with local growers and shining a light on the Empire State. He gifted us with a few gems in this exclusive Q&A.
What was your first experience with Cannabis?
Watching ‘How High’ with my older cousins and finding one of their stashes open (a sunglasses case filled with dubs). The first time I smoked was with a water bottle and poking holes through tinfoil.
What led you to specialize in hash?
Full melt over rosin. If the resin is quality, there is no need to further refine or add heat. I really enjoy smoking hash, so I always attempt to create what I want and would enjoy. It has to be 6-star or it gets pressed.
Can you share any pivotal moments or experiences that inspired you to start Santa Hash?
After an entourage of requests, Marijuantauk Gardens froze me some of his Cap Junky flower. I knew we had something special right away. I had already been playing with a Santa hat sticker, so Santa Hash was born.
What drew you to Ego Clash?
Ego Clash Invitational was and is an honor to compete in. Top hash makers all get together and blindly judge each others’ entries. I wanted to showcase our work and what New York has to offer (the best of the best).
How do you decide what to enter? Was it close?
I QC everything to see how it melts as hash. [At] Ego Clash Cali we entered 70-149u, and although the full spectrum packed a heavy hit, some other entries melted cleaner. I added a 90u, a 104u and 120u bag to my setup. It was very close to choose between entering 104-119u and the 120-149u, but those bigger heads took the W.
What is the biggest challenge you and your brand have faced in getting off the ground and growing?
Initial setup, cost to operate, replace, upgrade and maintain.
Did you have any mentors or influences in the Cannabis industry?
I learned how to make hash in the trap at a buddy’s farm, and then the rest has been self-taught.
What are some techniques or tools that you think make a significant difference in quality rosin production?
Keep it cold and clean. Clean, clean, clean. When you are done cleaning, clean again.
How do you choose which strains to press and maintain consistent quality? How do you ensure that every batch of Santa Hash meets your standards?
Every strain gets pressed. I QC everything. If it doesn’t meet my standards — taste, smell, feel, look, and it has to be loud — it doesn’t get released.
How does branding and packaging play a role in the Santa Hash experience?
I keep it consistent with my SH monogram, but I like to highlight the farms I’m washing for on the jars. Without the farmers growing the resin, there would be no Santa. I also package every jar myself to ensure the resin goes out how it should.
Are there any upcoming products or flavors in the Santa Hash line that you’re excited about?
I try not to get excited about projects until I’m done with QC, and they have the final stamp of approval, so keep your eyes out for future drops.
Where do you hope to see Santa Hash in the next five years?
Producing quality meds with the farmers who work so diligently growing this resin. Maybe a small, single-source grow focused on hash resin production.
