The High Times Cannabis Cup Illinois named Revolution Global brands the winner in six of seven announced categories, with other top finishers featuring other big growers in the state, such as Cresco, Green Thumb Industries and PharmaCann. But some reviewers question whether the process was broad-based and fair enough.
While previous Cannabis Cups around the world typically have featured celebrity judges such as Snoop Dogg or industry insiders, this time the process was different, in part due to the coronavirus pandemic. In Illinois, where recreational marijuana first became legal this year, the judging was opened up to the public, as a way to broaden participation.
Up to 220 judges could participate in each category. They bought judging kits containing samples of products from producers statewide, costing $150 to $280 for up to 28 grams, or about an ounce, which were only sold at a handful of dispensaries statewide.
