The Great Outdoors: A Natural High

The Berkshires are a paradise for outdoor lovers. Whether you prefer a leisurely nature walk or a challenging summit hike, the region is packed with scenic trails that allow you to connect with nature at your own pace.

• Mount Greylock – The highest peak in Massachusetts offers breathtaking panoramic views, perfect for a mindful moment after a rewarding hike.
• Monument Mountain – A moderate hike with an inspiring history (Herman Melville and Nathaniel Hawthorne once roamed these trails!) and a spectacular view at the summit.
• The Appalachian Trail – A legendary trail that winds through many states and passes through the Berkshires, offering a serene and stunning landscape to enjoy at any time of year.

A Cultural Escape: World-Class Museums 

Art and cannabis have long been a natural pairing, and the Berkshires are home to some of the best museums in the country (some would say the world), offering immersive and thought-provoking experiences. We highly recommend taking a low-dose edible to maximize your museum enjoyment. 

• The Clark Art Institute – A haven for art lovers, The Clark showcases everything from classic European masterpieces to contemporary works, all in a serene setting with walking trails and peaceful surroundings.
• Mass MoCA – One of the largest contemporary art museums in the country, Mass MoCA is a playground for the imagination, featuring large-scale installations and avant-garde exhibits that are even more mesmerizing when you’re in the right mindset.
• Norman Rockwell Museum – Get lost in the timeless charm of Rockwell’s iconic paintings, capturing slices of American life that may inspire nostalgia and deep reflection.

Step Back in Time: Historic Landmarks

History buffs will find plenty to explore in the Berkshires.

• The Mount (Edith Wharton’s Home) – The beautifully preserved estate of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Edith Wharton offers insight into her life and legacy, as well as stunning gardens to stroll through at your leisure.
• Hancock Shaker Village – A fascinating look into the simple, yet innovative lifestyle of the Shakers, complete with restored buildings and beautiful farmland.
• Naumkeag – This Gilded Age mansion boasts breathtaking gardens and an air of grandeur that’s perfect for a slow-paced, dreamy afternoon.

Photo by David Dashiell

A Foodie’s Dream: Local Eats

Cannabis and delicious food go hand in hand (upscale munchies anyone?), and the Berkshires do not disappoint when it comes to dining. From farm-to-table bistros to cozy bakeries, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

• Mezze Bistro + Bar – A must-visit for farm-fresh dishes with an innovative twist.
• The Prairie Whale – A laid-back yet refined spot with locally sourced ingredients and fantastic craft cocktails.
• Haven Café & Bakery – Perfect for a morning coffee and pastry before heading out on your next adventure.

Photo by Avida Love Photography

Quaint Small Towns: Wander and Explore

The Berkshires are dotted with charming small towns, each with its own personality to uncover.

• Great Barrington – A vibrant artsy town with boutique shops, great restaurants, and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Lenox – A cultural hub home to Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Each year, James Taylor performs there on the 4th of July!
• Stockbridge – Straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting, this town offers timeless New England charm and a laid-back vibe perfect for strolling.

A Relaxing Retreat

The Berkshires offer a vibrant scene, with dispensaries like The Pass providing premium cannabis products that can complement every experience. Whether you’re looking to unwind at a cozy inn, book a wellness retreat, or simply spend a quiet evening gazing at the stars, the Berkshires provide an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Add in the region’s cannabis-friendly atmosphere, and you have the perfect setting for a rejuvenating, inspiring, and deeply enjoyable getaway.

So, pack your bags or enjoy a stay-cation and embrace the beauty of Berkshire County. Let your next adventure begin!

The post Why the Berkshires Are a Perfect Getaway for Cannabis Enthusiasts appeared first on The Pass.

Terpenes in Quality Cannabis

All the cool kids are looking at terpene percentages before they buy their flower. As a simple reminder for those who don’t know, terpenes are the little compounds in your cannabis plant, and in essentially all living plants, that provide the particular aromas and flavors of your flower, as well as contribute to some of the effects they may give you. Have you ever been smoking a particular strain and you’re thinking to yourself, “Wow, I love that this tastes a little bit like a wild berry” or, “Holy cow, this smells just like the dank, skunky stuff I used to smoke all those years ago?” Well, those flavors and aromas you love come from a particular terpene, or combination of terpenes, that are often primarily present in that particular strain.

So, if a strain is extra tasty and smooth, it would stand to reason that it likely has a higher terpene percentage (of your favorite terpenes, of course). Now here’s a dirty little secret: some cannabis producers cure their flower extra long, drying out the buds and therefore condensing the amount of THC in the bud, raising the final test results. This process, however, allows terpenes to dissipate, leaving a tasteless, harsh smoke in your lungs. That’s not to say high-THC bud is all cheated, dried-out product – THC content range often depends on its genetics and can be slightly improved by quality growing techniques. But again, the type of the experience should be valued more than the height of the experience. Terpenes, working with THC and other minor cannabinoids, help shape the feeling you get from your product. Furthermore, some terpenes are being studied for their potential benefits, like reduced inflammation, relaxation, and pain relief. We could talk about terpenes forever, so if you want to learn more about specific terpenes, check out our Terpenes 101 blog. Want to know what terpenes are in your favorite Pass strains? Check out our Strain Library.

Bud Appeal in Quality Cannabis

Sometimes – not always, but sometimes – you can just tell the flower you’re about to smoke is going to be dyn-o-mite. The pear-shaped mecca hosting crystalline dark green and purple fibers with interspersed orange hairs, a shade of nature you’ve never seen before, looks something like a sugary candy you can take a bite right out of – grinding it into a flaky consortium of green instead of shelving it behind bulletproof glass on your mantel might even seem like a crime. THAT’s a pretty good sign that your weed is going to be dank. While bud appeal is not always a definite indicator of stellar cannabis, it is usually a sign that it was grown correctly. Fully formed buds, trichome density (the shiny sugary crystals that carry all the cannabinoids and terpenes), and feel of the bud in relation to its moisture level, will all give some indication of how it was grown and how it was cured.

Minor Cannabinoids in Quality Cannabis

While cannabis flower does have minor cannabinoids in it, let’s talk edibles. Edibles present far more options of purposeful and precise amounts of minor cannabinoids. As another quick refresher, minor cannabinoids are molecules in the cannabis plant other than THC and CBD, that each potentially present their own benefits when consumed. These cannabinoids work with THC and each other to create something called the entourage effect, which essentially means the benefits of each cannabinoid are heightened because of their relationship with each other, making them greater than the sum of their parts. By isolating these cannabinoids, edibles producers are able to craft ratios of cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, CBC, and more, to alter the effects you are getting from your edible. There’s nothing wrong with a pure THC gummy, but maybe you’re looking to get a particular effect out of your high, like sleeping better or pain reduction. These particular ratios can really help you dial in what you’re trying to achieve when you consume cannabis. For more information on specific cannabinoids and how they interact with your body, read our Ultimate Guide to the Endocannabinoid System. 

Final Advice on Buying Good Weed

We can throw all these fancy-shmancy cannabis words at you and tell you all the benefits of analyzing your cannabis on the most microscopic level, but when it comes down to it, you know your body best, and you know what makes you feel good. The way you can find your favorite cannabis product is to try something out and use your new-found intelligence and your own preferences to give you a clue as to where to go next. We’ll be here to help you along the way.

The post Buying Quality Cannabis: A How-To Guide appeared first on The Pass.

Before you hit the trails, stop by our local cannabis dispensary to stock up on COAST’s premium edibles and concentrates. COAST specializes in high-quality chocolates, gummies, and live rosin concentrates — perfect for pairing with any après-adventure. Here’s how we like to enjoy our favorite Berkshire winter activities with COAST products available at The Pass…

Cross-Country Skiing

The Berkshires boast some of the best cross-country skiing spots in the Northeast, including Notchview Reservation, Canterbury Farm, and Hilltop Orchards. Whether you’re gliding through scenic woodland trails or conquering rolling hills, COAST’s Raspberry Lime THCV or Tangerine CBG Gummies make an excellent companion. These decadent edibles can help you achieve that “elevated” feeling while hitting the slopes!

Tips for a Great Skiing Experience:

• Beginners should start on groomed trails and practice basic techniques like the diagonal stride.
• Experienced skiers can challenge themselves with backcountry routes or more hilly terrain.
• Always dress in moisture-wicking layers to stay warm and dry.

Snowshoeing

If you’d prefer to explore snowy landscapes at a slower pace, snowshoeing is a fun and family-friendly option. Popular snowshoeing trails in the Berkshires include Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Bartholomew’s Cobble, and Pittsfield State Forest. For an enhanced sensory experience, COAST’s live rosin concentrates are a potent and flavorful way to connect with the winter wonderland around you.

Preparing for Your Snowshoeing Adventure:

• Wear insulated, waterproof boots for warmth and support.
• Bring trekking poles for added stability on deeper snow trails.
• Pack snacks, water, and a thermos with your favorite hot beverage for a fun and toasty break in nature.

Winter Nature Walks and Hikes

Sometimes, the best way to enjoy winter is to slow down and take it all in on a scenic stroll. The Berkshires are full of peaceful hiking trails that transform into snow-covered wonderlands in the colder months. Whether you’re wandering up Monument Mountain or admiring the (frozen!) beauty of Bash Bish Falls, elevate your appreciation of the natural world with COAST’s live rosin concentrates. COAST is known for deliciously fruity live rosin flavors like Riptide Rush and Strawberry Candy.

Essentials for a Winter Hike:

• Layer up with thermal clothing and waterproof outerwear.
• Carry a small backpack with water, snacks, and a flashlight.
• Be mindful of icy patches, and consider using traction cleats on your hiking boots.

Sledding and Tubing Fun

For a nostalgic and exhilarating winter activity, head to some of the best sledding and tubing hills in the Berkshires, like Bousquet Mountain or Kennedy Park. Whether you’re racing down hills in a competition or enjoying a casual glide, COAST’s ratio gummies, such as the “RELAX” Peach 20mg CBD: 1mg THC, offer a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the thrill of the ride with a high CBD content.

Sledding and Tubing Safety Tips:

• Always check the hill for obstacles and icy patches before sledding.
• Use sturdy sleds or tubes designed for snow conditions.
• Wear closed-toe, water-proof shoes, and thick socks to keep those feet warm.

Warming Up and Winding Down With Cozy Eats

After a day of fun in the outdoors, warm up at a cozy Berkshire café or lounge. Spots like Six Depot Roastery, Haven Café, and The Red Lion Inn are local favorites that offer inviting atmospheres and comforting food. We’re always fans of pairing downtime with COAST’s chocolate bars for a soothing way to satisfy that after-dinner sweet tooth. We also love the Deep Sleep Goodnight Grape Gummies and Sleep Cranberry Pomegranate Gummies for that final CBN-packed midnight snack!

Our Go-To Cannabis and Comfort Food Pairings:

• Sip rich hot cocoa while you savor COAST’s chocolate bars for ultimate coziness.
• Enjoy COAST’s gummies alongside a warm mug of apple cider for a sweet and soothing treat.
• Indulge in a hearty meal before unwinding with COAST’s live rosin for deep relaxation.

The Pass Berkshires: Your Destination for COAST Products All Winter Long*

Before embarking on your winter adventure, make The Pass your go-to stop for high-quality cannabis products — from rosins to edibles to chocolates and more! Our locally owned and operated dispensary has a lineup of COAST edibles and live rosins you can’t beat.

Whether you’re shredding in the snow or simply enjoying the winter scenery, COAST and The Pass have you covered. Place an order online for easy and fast pickup on the way to your destination, or stop in and browse with the help of a budtender.

*Please follow local consumption laws and do not consume while driving or bring THC products to privately owned properties.

The post A Cannabis Guide to Winter Adventures in the Berkshires With COAST appeared first on The Pass.

The Berkshires Food Scene

Typically spaced out and in modest locations, some of the Berkshires’ best restaurants can seem like finding a diamond in the rough, but rest assured, they’re out there. Here are a couple of our favorites throughout the county.

Steam Noodle Cafe

It’s easy to walk past Steam Noodle Cafe’s modest storefront on your stroll through downtown Great Barrington, but once you find yourself inside the narrow walls of STEAM Noodle, you will be ready to stay a while longer. Offering a tantalizing Asian-fusion menu, you’ll be well suited to start off your meal with their steamed buns and then choose between one of their ramen options, soups, or several other noodle dishes. 

Great Barrington Bagel

Long a mainstay in the area, Great Barrington Bagel stays busy for a reason. More than reasonably priced and made every morning right in the back, Great Barrington Bagel gives you a plethora of homemade bagel options, with more cream cheese and toppings options than you know what to do with. But they don’t stop there. At lunchtime, they operate more like a deli, making mouth-watering sandwiches from their homemade bagels.

Bluebird & Co.

Located within walking distance of Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort, Bluebird & Co.’s globally inspired menu pairs with a versatile atmosphere, offering cozy indoor seating with a bar or active outside seating right next to Bentley Brook. Not to mention the several lawn games outside to fill your time while you wait for your next course.

Other Restaurants in the Berkshires

There are so many good restaurants, so little time! No Comply’s changing menu of local, fresh ingredients makes it a more unique and always-satisfying experience. Marketplace Kitchen Table & Café stays busy serving delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner at both Sheffield and Great Barrington locations. Steakhouse lovers will enjoy No. 10’s re-imagined steakhouse vibe with a unique space that houses a mahogany bar and cozy booths reclaimed from church pews. Looking for something upscale? Cafe Adam will satiate your extravagant taste with incredible dishes and wine.

Skiing in the Berkshires

The Berkshires is a ski destination for those coming in from the city and a weekly stop for those of us looking to spend the winter doing something active. With a few different mountains in the region, ski tourism is a vital part of keeping our area lively throughout the cold months.

Photo Source: Catamount Mountain Resort

Catamount

The closest mountain to The Pass, Catamount straddles the NY and MA border and showcases some of the best terrain Southern New England has to offer. Catamount offers trails for every level of skier and snowboarder and is only a few miles down the road from downtown Great Barrington. Catamount also hosts many summer activities, including its adventure park and the longest zipline in North America!

Butternut

Not too far up the road from downtown Great Barrington, Butternut remains another popular option for skiers and snowboarders to shred some powder. It is also a popular spot for tubing for those of us who can’t master the sticks!

Jiminy Peak

Just up the road from our previous food recommendation, Bluebird & Co., Jiminy Peak is a popular ski resort up toward the northern part of the county. With lodging and dining options available, Jiminy Peak offers an incredible all-around experience for those traveling to hit the mountain.

Art & Culture and Shopping in the Berkshires

Between some truly iconic museums to some lesser-known music venues, the Berkshires may be spread out geographically, but there’s still so much to offer!

Tanglewood

Certainly, the most notable music venue around, Tanglewood, has hosted many big-name musicians, including James Taylor, who plays his yearly concert here, as well as the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Visiting the large, open Tanglewood grounds to listen to a show and enjoy the warm summer air is almost a rite of passage at this point. 

Mass MoCA

The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, better known as Mass MoCA, is another iconic cultural force here in the Berkshires. Filled with inspiring galleries of evocative art, Mass MoCA presents plenty to gaze at. However, they also host many events and exhibitions throughout the year and often have interactive exhibits that allow you to take part in the magic of the establishment.

Norman Rockwell Museum

Showcasing perhaps the state’s most famous artist, The Norman Rockwell Museum displays the artist’s lifetime’s worth of work right in his hometown. If you haven’t had the pleasure of seeing a Norman Rockwell exhibit, do yourself a favor and take a trip up the peaceful backroads of Stockbridge.

The Egremont Barn

Voted the second best music venue in the Berkshires (behind Tanglewood), The Egremont Barn, or simply “The Barn” to many, is a popular spot for local bands, karaoke, drinks, and food, and a much more intimate time compared to the vast grounds of Tanglewood. Along with their rustic barn interior, the fun extends outdoors into their string-lit lawn, making this spot especially popular during the summer.

Lodging in the Berkshires

The Red Lion Inn

A truly historic inn, The Red Lion Inn serves as a landmark to the Stockbridge greater area, providing an elegant yet cozy stay in rooms that will make you nostalgic for a time you may not have even been alive. With dining and events, plus the historic beauty of the surrounding towns, there is no wonder The Red Lion Inn has been around for 2 centuries.

Race Brook Lodge

Race Brook Lodge serves as a quintessential Berkshires stay with its spread-out property tucked into a beautiful corner of the woods. Along with its serene lodging, the Race Brook grounds also host the “Big Barn,” where events from live concerts to yoga classes take place. The Stagecoach Tavern is a mere a few steps away, serving incredible meals and a rustic and laid-back bar.

Canyon Ranch

If upscale elegance and all-around pampering is your thing (and in your budget), Canyon Ranch is for you. Recently recognized as one of the most outstanding hotels in the U.S. by the Michelin Guide, Canyon Ranch offers top-of-the-line services, accommodations, and experiences all in a breathtaking setting.

Best Berkshires Cannabis Dispensaries 

The Pass Berkshires 

Did you think we were going to pick anywhere else?

Visit the Berkshires

It’s always a good time to visit our neck of the woods. Come experience a serene getaway from your everyday life and see why the Berkshires is one of the most peaceful and fulfilling places in the country. Don’t forget to stop by The Pass on your way through.

The post Best of the Berkshires appeared first on The Pass.

Well, now gummies are all the rage. If your buddy were to say, “Hey, I’m heading over to the dispensary to grab some edibles,” you would be pretty shocked if they brought back a tray of brownies. Needless to say, people like their gummies. But don’t become complacent, people — they can get better. 

We’ve been screaming it from the rooftops, and we won’t stop until everyone knows… hash rosin gummies HIT DIFFERENT.

Hash Rosin Recap

Not everyone is as in on the canna-lingo, so here’s a little refresher on hash rosin. Hash rosin is a solventless extract of cannabis, using only heat and pressure to extract all those delightful cannabinoids and terpenes into a potent and flavorful concentrate of cannabis. Unless specified otherwise, your edibles are typically infused with something called distillate. 

Distillate is a concentration of cannabinoids that’s extracted using ethanol, alcohol, hydrocarbon, or sometimes Co2 solvents. That solvent is then purged out of the mixture, leaving just the THC behind. 

Now, we aren’t ragging on distillate products. We carry and produce many products that use distillate, and it certainly serves its purpose. But hash rosin hits different.

Why is Hash Rosin Better?

By simply using heat and pressure, hash rosin retains much more of its cannabinoids and terpenes than distillate does. It provides a more well-rounded effect, taste, and overall experience. It’s the most accurate representation of the plant it came from without actually being that plant. 

We use hash rosin as dabbable concentrates, in cartridges for vapes, and of course, in our gummies. These gummies subsequently have more minor cannabinoids and terpenes in them, which ‘shape’ your high. Now, this also means there’s a slightly different taste to these gummies, as the terpenes take the journey through to the end. 

Distillate, on the other hand, is tasteless. It gives cannabis product producers the ability to make their product taste like whatever they want it to taste like. Some people, including this blog’s author, enjoy the hint of natural taste that hash rosin brings. 

But for those who are a little bit weary of that idea, don’t worry, it’s still encased in mouth-watering, natural cherry and blueberry flavors we infuse these gummies in.

Shop Hash Rosin Gummies

Our dispensary currently offers our hash rosin gummies in cherry and blueberry flavors. While the Cherry is a house blend, the Blueberry is strain-specific, changing strains from batch to batch, giving a new experience to each batch of gummies with the same reliable and juicy blueberry flavor. 

Want to sample before committing to a bigger pack? These gummy flavors are available in 20-packs and 5-pack “Take 5” tins. 

One of our expert budtenders, Emma Brinson, explains her feelings on hash rosin gummies: 

“If you like our distillate gummies, then you are going to love our hash rosin gummies. With their hash rosin infusion, they can shape your high into wanting to get the party started, or help you unwind from the craziest of days.”

The post Premium Edibles: A Switch to Hash Rosin Gummies appeared first on The Pass.

The truth is, they’re not as straightforward as they seem. Originally, Indica, Sativa, and hybrid referred to the way cannabis plants grow. Today, they’re more anecdotal terms often used to suggest whether a strain might energize you, help you relax, or offer a balance of both.

Unfortunately, these labels don’t necessarily tell you the whole story when seeking a specific effect. Cannabis is a dynamic plant, and to understand the nuances of the effects of a strain, it’s crucial to know how to look beyond these oversimplified terms.

On the current market, nearly every strain is technically a hybrid. Yes, you read that correctly. Your favorite sleepy-time Indicia or energizing Sativa may deliver those effects, but the truth is, they’re likely still a hybrid.

Predicting the type of experience you’ll have depends less on whether the strain is Indica or Sativa and more on its specific terpene profile.

Ready to learn more? Let’s start by breaking down what Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid really mean.

What Does Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid Mean?

The terms “Indica” and “Sativa” were originally used to describe the plant’s physical characteristics.

Cannabis Indica refers to shorter, bushier plants native to regions like India,  which eventually spread to Africa and the Americas. Cannabis Sativa, on the other hand, described taller, thinner plants that thrived in more tropical climates and were primarily grown for rope, textiles, fiber, and paper.

Hybrids emerged due to intentional crossbreeding between Indica and Sativa strains to suit consumer needs. Today, most cannabis strains are hybrids, making the original classifications more about historical context and less about the potential effects of the strain.

For those exploring Berkshire recreational cannabis, understanding this background is crucial when finding the perfect strain for you.

The Problem with These Labels

Despite the general use of Indica and Sativa, the names still present limitations when it comes to predicting how a strain will make you feel. These labels rely on anecdotal experiences that can ignore the more nuanced factors that influence a strain’s effects called terpenes. Terpenes are the aromatic compounds responsible for the smell and flavor of the cannabis plant, which plays a role in the experience you’ll likely have when consuming a specific strain.

The effects of cannabis are determined by the unique combination of major and minor cannabinoids and how they work synergistically with the terpenes found in the plant. This interaction is known as the entourage effect.

Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds found in many plants, including lavender, citrus fruits, and pine trees. In cannabis, terpenes interact with other compounds like cannabinoids to shape the plant’s overall effects. The combination of terpenes and cannabinoid levels can produce unique outcomes that vary from person to person, influenced by each individual’s unique endocannabinoid system. What feels relaxing to one person might feel more energizing to another.

Relying solely on Indica and Sativa can lead to confusion or disappointment, especially if you’re looking for specific effects. A visit to The Pass dispensary in Sheffield, MA can help clarify any misconceptions you may have. Our team focuses on the whole plant, including terpene profiles and cannabinoid content rather than these outdated and often inaccurate classifications to better tailor your cannabis experience.

Moving Away from Sativa & Indica 

Shopping for cannabis based on its terpene profile allows you to have a more personalized and reliable experience. Terpenes provide valuable insight into a strain’s individual experiences and effects, allowing you to make informed choices that align with your needs.

For example:

• Myrcene: Myrcene, a terpenoid also found in hops, is recognized for its sedative properties and used in Germany to aid sleep. Research is showing its potential to produce the “couch-lock” effect many experience with certain cannabis strains, valued by some recreational consumers and avoided by others.
• Limonene: Limonene reduces anxiety by increasing dopamine levels in the brain, as shown in tests on mice. It activates specific brain receptors that regulate dopamine activity, linking its effects to these mechanisms.
• Beta-Caryophyllene: Beta-caryophyllene may help you feel calm, balanced, and relaxed, with soothing effects that support your overall well-being.

By understanding terpenes, you can better dial in what works for you when shopping for recreational cannabis in MA. Shop confidently, knowing that despite the label, you can identify strains that better align with your desired outcome.

Exploring Strains by Terpene Profiles

Now that you understand how terpenes influence your cannabis experience let’s take a closer look at some strains available in Massachusetts that showcase distinct terpene profiles.

These strains offer a diverse range of effects and aromas, helping you find the right fit for your needs:

Glitter Bomb 

1. 2.5% Terpenes
2. Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Linalool, Humulene

Apple Tartz

1. 2.7% Terpenes
2. Limonene, Caryophyllene, Linalool, Humulene

Pie Scream

1. 4.3% terpenes
2. Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Ocimene, Pinene

These featured strains offer a variety of terpenes and effects. Each strain provides a unique combination to better suit your different preferences and needs. Understanding their impact and how each terpene affects you can help you make a more personalized and educated product choice.

Educating Consumers on Terpenes

At The Pass, we believe that cannabis education is essential to making informed decisions when choosing cannabis products. Our Berkshire dispensary prioritizes educating customers about the role of terpenes in shaping the cannabis experience.

Whether you’re exploring options for relaxation, focus, or creativity, understanding terpenes can help you make selections that align with your preferences.

Here are a few ways to start exploring terpenes during your next visit to a dispensary in MA:

• Ask a budtender: Our expert team can advise you while selecting cannabis products. Terpene profiles and specific cannabinoids can help you choose products based on their particular effects.
• Read strain profiles: Labels and product descriptions often include information about dominant terpenes.
• Do your research: Resources like our blog about terpenes are perfect for starting points to understand better how they can influence your cannabis experience moving beyond Indica and Sativa classifications.

By taking these steps, you can shop for cannabis at our MA recreational dispensary in Sheffield without needing to rely on anecdotal claims.

Discover Your Perfect Strain at The Pass

Indica, Sativa, and hybrid labels have long been the foundation of cannabis classifications, though, in today’s market, they fail to capture the full complexity of cannabis and a strain’s nuanced effects. 

By shifting the focus to terpenes, you can better find products and strains that allow you to have a more customized experience with more predictable effects. 

Stop by our Massachusetts dispensary or shop online to find your next favorite strain today.

The post Indica vs. Sativa: The Real Story Behind Cannabis Effects appeared first on The Pass.

How to Infuse Homemade Edibles with Cannabis

While infusing your recipe with THC shouldn’t be difficult, it is not as easy as throwing some loose bud into your food and calling it a day. Perhaps the most important step in creating your very own at-home edibles is decarboxylating or “decarbing” your cannabis flower beforehand. Decarboxylation essentially means you are removing the carbon element from the THCA molecule in a cannabis plant, transforming it into your favorite psychedelic molecule, THC. This happens instantaneously when you spark up your bud to inhale it, but since you aren’t going to light your infused bunt cake on fire to smoke it, you’ll have to achieve this another way — the oven!

To “activate” your bud, spread out your flower on a parchment paper-lined sheet pan. Because it is affordable and the “smoking quality” isn’t a factor in making edibles, many people use shake to infuse their edibles. Go ahead and throw that pan in the oven at 220 degrees for 30-40 minutes. Be aware; don’t crank the temperature to speed up this process. If you apply too much heat to your cannabis, those desirable cannabinoids, including the THC, will burn off and you will have some duds on your oven-mit-clad hands.

Now that you’ve decarbed your bud, it’s time to infuse your butter (or coconut/olive oil for a vegan option). Melt your butter at a low temperature to prevent burning, stirring and keeping a vigilant eye so that it doesn’t boil. A double boiler option would help ensure your butter doesn’t overcook. Once it is completely melted, throw in your decarbed shake and mix it in. Just like the edibles you’re about to consume, low and slow is the name of the game. Let your bud simmer in your butter for about 3 or 4 hours, ensuring it doesn’t boil or burn. Keep the temperature very low, keep an eye on it, and give it the occasional stir, and you should be all right.

Now that your butter is now properly infused, it’s time to strain it. A cheesecloth is going to give you the best straining results, but a fine metal sieve will perform just fine, leaving you with a silky infused-butter without any bud in it.

How to Incorporate Your Canna-Butter (Or Oil)

Now the big question is, how do you properly incorporate your butter so you roughly know how much each dose is? Well here’s the thing, we can’t tell you how much is right for you. But we can give you a little math to help you come to your conclusion. It’s important to note, that making your edibles in your oven isn’t an ideal space for exact dosing.

The simplest way to find the maximum amount of THC milligrams in your butter is to multiply the weight of the flower in milligrams by the THC percentage. To find the weight of your flower in milligrams instead of grams, just multiply it by 1,000. So, let’s say you take a half gram of 20% THC flower to make 20 infused brownies. This is how you would calculate the maximum dosage:

• Multiply your grams of flower by 1,000 to find its weight in milligrams
  • .5g  x 1,000 = 500 mg
• Multiply your weight in milligrams by the THC percentage of the flower
  • 500mg x .2 = 100mgs of THC
• Divide your milligrams of THC by how many servings you plan on making
  • 100mg / 20 brownies = 5mgs per brownie

It’s important to note that this is the maximum amount of THC that could be extracted and put into your butter. On average only 60% of cannabinoids are extracted when decarbing in the oven, so your dosage could be nearly cut in half. Again, making your own edibles in your kitchen oven is not an exact science, so we want to prepare you with the most potent potential, rather than tell you that your dosage will be lower only for you to have a bad experience if they turn out more potent than you expected.

To ensure proper dosing, once your butter cools, weigh it into serving sizes. For example,  if you have 100mg of butter, equally separate it into 20 5mg portions or measure and cut evenly, although this tactic will be less accurate. You can also fill molds with your cool butter and refrigerate them to have even little blocks of that sweet, sweet cannabutter.

Homemade Edible Recipes

Here’s the great part: you aren’t tied down to any particular recipes! Just substitute in how much cannabutter you want for your ideal high with your non-infused butter, and you can make any delicious treats you want! Want the classic pot brownie? How about some seasonal shortbread cookies? What about the classiest 18-layer French pastry with a name you can’t pronounce but it looked delicious when you saw it on the internet. The world is yours! For vegans looking to substitute their infused olive or coconut oils, you can add your new cannaoil to any dessert you want, or you can infuse salad dressings, slaws, etc.

Explore More Edible Options at Our Berkshire Dispensary

The world of homemade edibles opens up a whole new opportunity for you to eat your weed. Remember that it’s not an exact science, so the old adage of starting low and going slow has never been more accurate. Check out some of our shake options if you plan on making any batches of edibles!

Although The Pass may provide information regarding the marijuana and marijuana products available from our dispensary, including but not limited to potency, pharmacology, active ingredients, source of cultivation, recommended uses and benefits, and all other descriptions or information, such information should no way be construed as medical advice. All content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice under any circumstance.

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The Pass Dispensary Berkshire Community Partners

Throughout the year, The Pass donates a portion of our proceeds from our philanthropic brand, Berkshire Bud, to impactful organizations in our community. These organizations strive to make the Berkshires ample with opportunity and diverse culture, thus improving the community as a whole. Here are some of the organizations we donated to this year:

Berkshire Black Economic Council (BBEC)

(BBEC) is a Pittsfield-based non-profit that fosters Black businesses and introduces policies to spur economic development in the Berkshires and the Commonwealth. They host programs that inspire local partnerships and increase supplier diversity by raising awareness of the issues local Black entrepreneurs experience and solving barriers to their prosperity.

The Elizabeth Freeman Center

With offices in Pittsfield, North Adams, and Great Barrington, the (EFC) is a vital resource for individuals facing life-and-death issues related to domestic abuse and sexual assault. Through sheltering, advocacy, education, and other social services, EFC is an incredibly remarkable resource for abuse victims in our county.

Berkshire Pride

Providing safe spaces and events where LGBTQIA+ community members can live and thrive as their authentic selves is what Berkshire Pride is all about. In addition to helping individuals —from Rainbow Seniors and the youth-led Q Club to everyone in between—Berkshire Pride also promotes and educates others on the principles of creating truly safe spaces where no one ever feels marginalized or unwelcome.

Berkshire Natural Resource Council (BNRC)

Committed to protecting and preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Berkshires, BNRC actively maintains trails throughout the Berkshires so they can be enjoyed by all. As a non-profit, BNRC relies on donations from individuals and community partners to keep land open and accessible. Similarly to our previously mentioned Berkshire Bud donations, we fund our donations to BNRC through our TrailBlazers product, with a portion of the proceeds of every sale going directly to the environmental group.

Berkshire Bounty

The good folks at Berkshire Bounty and their army of more than 100 volunteers work daily to ensure everyone in the county has access to sufficient nutritious food for themselves and their families. As our yearly tradition, we have set up a food drive in our retail location for customers to bring in nonperishables. At the end of the month, all of the donations go to Berkshire Bounty, which then disperses them to areas with a great risk of food insecurity within our county.

Where Can You Donate in the Berkshires?

While the Berkshires is a beautiful county with great opportunities for many, there are undoubtedly areas of need, especially around the holidays. You may be feeling the urge to help out in some way this season, but the idea of impactfully donating feels unobtainable. Well, donating doesn’t have to just be about giving money. Between donating your time, your excess essentials, or cash where you can spare it, there are several ways to give back this giving season. Here are a few:

Louison House

Louison House is a private non-profit organization established to serve the Northern Berkshire County community facing homelessness. Helping both families and individuals, Louison House provides transitional and permanent housing as well as a whole host of other services. While they take monetary donations, they also accept goods like cleaning supplies, toiletries, and clothing, which is especially important as winter approaches.

Elder Services of Berkshire County

This Pittsfield-based non-profit organization provides Berkshire elders, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities with essential care and the opportunity to achieve the highest possible quality of life. Elder Services offers a plethora of volunteer opportunities, from grocery shopping to food services, money management, companionship programs, and more. There are so many different ways you can help out your elderly community. 

Berkshire Food Project

Another service opportunity for our north county friends, Berkshire Food Project, is a no-cost, no-questions-asked meal site at the First Congregational Church in North Adams, providing hot, nutritious meals every weekday. You can volunteer your time to provide these weekly meals between prep, cooking, serving, dishwashing, and cleaning up. 

Local Food Pantries

Even if there aren’t many volunteer opportunities near you, there is likely a food pantry in your town for some of your fellow residents struggling with food insecurity. Check out Project Bread to find a food bank in your area.

The Season of Giving in the Berkshires

The Berkshires is a wonderful place to live, vacation, and operate a business — and part of that relies on the tight-knit community that pulls for each other in times of need. If you want to help out this year, take a look at some of the aforementioned organizations or find one that resonates with you the most. Happy Holidays, everybody, and happy Season of Giving from The Pass!

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A cross between Chemdawg and Super Skunk, Sour Diesel came onto the scene in New York City in the early 90s and soon gained legendary status for the decades to come. There’s just something about the pungent, skunky and gas taste that has seasoned smokers coming back to this gem over and over again. Plus, its sativa effects typically have tokers energized and ready to chat your ear off about anything and everything, as all the day’s stresses just melt away.

While Sour Diesel has certainly been a hit on our menu, so have a few of our other strains with Sour Diesel in their genetics. Take a look at some of them below and find out why they’ve been such a hit. 

• Sour Diesel
• South Shore Sour
• Sour OG
• Sour Tsunami

Shop these strains on our online menu and learn why the OGs are still king!

The post The Sour Diesel Effect: Sour Diesel Strains Sold at The Pass appeared first on The Pass.

Let’s dive into what Croptober is, why it’s special, and how we celebrate it here at The Pass.

What is Croptober?

Croptober marks the season when sun-grown cannabis cultivators reap the rewards of their labor. It’s the celebration of the annual harvesting of outdoor-grown cannabis.

Cannabis has only one bloom period during its lifecycle and must be grown from seed (or clone) to maturity season after season. In the Northeast, there’s a very particular window in which to grow cannabis outdoors to complete the plant’s full gestation period. All outdoor cannabis plants need to be harvested before the first frost of autumn. 

At peak season every October, we harvest our large canopy of outdoor field plants – a crop larger than any we are able to grow indoors. This gives us a wide selection of plants and strains to pack into freshly-sealed bags for your smoking enjoyment. Along with the material for extraction to create our solventless hash rosin products.

At The Pass, we also harvest year-round from our indoor rooms and greenhouse because of our ability to control the environment.

Why We Grow Cannabis Outdoors

It can certainly be difficult growing outdoors. Especially in the Berkshires, where we are often challenged by erratic weather and moisture conditions. 

However, there are some key benefits to growing outdoor cannabis that we aren’t able to replicate any other way. We asked our Head of Cultivation, Luca Boldrini, about the challenges of growing outdoors:

“Growing an outdoor canopy is challenging because you aren’t able to control your environment as much as you are able to indoors. On the other hand, you’re able to take advantage of the sun and the wind to help grow your canopy in the most natural way possible.”

The ability to grow our crops in the natural elements is important for several reasons. Natural sunlight tends to foster a higher terpene percentage in plants, giving outdoor flower the ability to have a distinct, flavorful taste. It allows a higher yield from our canopies, as we aren’t limited to the number of grow lights we have – only to the amount of space to grow. 

Finally, because outdoor grows use natural resources, they lower our carbon footprint. We can grow more while taking less from the earth.

Croptober at The Pass

Our outdoor cannabis grow stretches alongside our indoor and greenhouse facilities, located directly behind our dispensary. This allows our cultivators to constantly monitor the plants. 

This year, our team curated a new batch of outdoor strains, and we asked Luca why he selected these new strains:

“We’re trying to find the perfect balance of TAC and terpenes in some new genetics that have come to market. We’re constantly looking for new strains, so the menu is reflective of the most recent trends.”

Some strains simply grow better in outdoor settings. In addition to a few classics, we also grew: 

• Jealousy
• Government Oasis
• Gelenade
• Jersey Juice x Sour Diesel
• Glitter Bomb

These exciting new strains are poised to bring a fresh upgrade to our strain library. Customers can taste and experience new products grown right in our own backyard.

We also fresh-freeze these new genetics and extract them for a whole new rotation of hash rosin products, including: 

• Hash rosin vapes
• Dabbable hash rosin
• Strain-specific Blueberry Hash Rosin Gummies

How to Celebrate Croptober

Croptober is the perfect time to celebrate cannabis flower and extractions, and we have plenty of ways to help you get your flower fix. New fresh flower varieties are stocked, sometimes in limited quantities, so it’s a good idea to act quickly. 

We recently harvested several batches of some of the best flower we’ve ever grown, including:

• Apple Tartz (Belushi’s Farm x The Pass) – 36% TAC | 2.7% Terps
• Heady Tropper – 36% TAC | 3% Terps
• Glitter Bomb – 36% TAC | 2.5% Terps ← NEW
• Hot Rod – 33% TAC

Pass flower is always priced at our affordable in-house pricing. Visit us on Flower Fridays to save on ½ ounces and full ounces of all the flower on our menu. 

But flower isn’t the only benefit of Croptober! Hash rosin products are ripe for the picking. And between our hash rosin gummies, hash rosin vapes, and dabbable hash rosin, there’s plenty to choose from.  

And remember… our weekly Solventless Sundays specials are the best time to save on these products. 

Get Your Hands on Some Croptober Flower

We’re sure you didn’t need an excuse to treat yourself to new bangin’ flower, but hey… now you have one anyway. Pre-order on our online menu or stop in to our dispensary in Sheffield to have our expert budtenders help you find the right product for you.

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