90 Proof (Cannabis Strain) — Strainpedia

90 Proof is a premium Indica-Leaning Hybrid cultivar from Compound Genetics, released as part of the highly anticipated Pavé Candy Collection (2025/2026). Engineered for elite bag appeal and top-shelf terpene complexity, this cultivar is widely recognized for its distinctive “high-proof” aroma profile—sharp fermented citrus, ethanol-like solvent gas, and dark grape jam sweetness layered into a dense, diamond-frost flower structure. With reported potency commonly in the 30%–34% THC range, 90 Proof has become a standout in the Pavé lineup for connoisseurs who prioritize loud aromatic intensity and long-lasting flavor persistence. The information below is intended strictly for scientific and botanical reference.


Quick Facts

Genetics Grape Gas x Pavé
Variety Indica-Leaning Hybrid (approx. 60% Indica / 40% Sativa)
Flowering Time 9 weeks (60–65 days indoors)
Yield Potential 500–600 g/m² (High Indoors)
Plant Height Medium; strong backbone with robust lateral branching
Climate Preference Controlled Indoor (Stable environment for terpene preservation)
Difficulty Moderate (Uniform, grower-friendly structure)

Scientific & Botanical Overview

90 Proof is a photoperiod hybrid engineered for stability, density, and top-shelf presentation. Plants typically develop a strong central stem with clean lateral branching, creating a manageable canopy that adapts well to both boutique commercial cultivation and hobbyist tent environments. Buds form dense and compact with a deep green to near-black coloration, often accompanied by a thick, sugar-like trichome coat that extends heavily into the sugar leaves.

The cultivar is particularly notable for its Pavé-driven resin structure. Trichomes are often described as “diamond-like,” producing an intense shimmering frost that enhances bag appeal and photogenic quality. This high resin output also positions 90 Proof as a strong candidate for both rosin and hydrocarbon extraction markets.


Effects & Use-Cases (Reported)

  • Commonly reported effects: clear-headed uplift, calm euphoria, steady mood elevation, and smooth physical decompression.
  • Use-case context: frequently selected for late afternoon or evening sessions where relaxation is desired without immediate heavy sedation.
  • Balance profile: described as mentally clean and happy early, followed by comfortable body ease as the high settles.
  • Note: These are observational reports, not medical claims; outcomes are not guaranteed.

Aroma & Flavors

  • Aroma: loud and sharp, dominated by fermented citrus and heavy ethanol-gas. The nose carries a distinct solvent bite layered over dark grape jam and fermented berry depth.
  • Flavor: sweet grape candy and berry compote on the inhale, followed by a dry, astringent fuel finish. The exhale is heavily gassy, coating the mouth with persistent high-proof intensity.
  • Terpene associations: caryophyllene, myrcene, limonene (implied dominant fermented gas-fruit profile).

Tested Cannabinoid & Terpene Ranges

Compound Typical Range* Notes
Δ⁹-THC ~30–34% Regularly tests at the top of the Pavé Candy line; high potency connoisseur cultivar.
CBD ~0–1% Generally present only in trace levels.
Caryophyllene High Supports peppery spice, fuel depth, and steady physical relaxation.
Myrcene Moderate–High Likely contributes to body decompression and deep flavor persistence.
Limonene Moderate Enhances fermented citrus sharpness and adds brightness to the solvent-gas profile.
Linalool Low–Moderate May contribute subtle sweetness and calmness under the gas-heavy top notes.
Terpene Profile Ethanol Gas / Fermented Citrus / Grape Jam A “high-proof” solvent-like aromatic lane designed for connoisseur intensity.

*Ranges are literature- and lab-report-informed references and can differ with phenotype, cultivation conditions, harvest timing, curing practices, and analytical methods.


Cultivation Notes

  • Light Cycle: 18/6 vegetative; 12/12 flowering
  • Humidity Targets: 40–50% during flower; stable airflow recommended due to dense bud structure.
  • Nutrition: Moderate to heavy feeder; consistent bloom nutrition supports density and resin formation.
  • Training: responds well to topping and light canopy shaping; structure is naturally clean and manageable.
  • Odor Control: recommended indoors due to loud ethanol-gas terpene intensity.
  • Harvest Window: Early to mid-October outdoors (Northern Hemisphere), due to its full 9-week flowering cycle.

Grower Notes (Week-by-Week Snapshot)

  1. Weeks 1–2 (Transition/Stretch): moderate stretch; establish canopy structure; avoid overfeeding nitrogen.
  2. Weeks 3–4: dense bud stacking begins; perform light defoliation for airflow and light penetration.
  3. Weeks 5–6: resin output increases rapidly; dark coloration intensifies; aroma becomes sharp and solvent-like.
  4. Weeks 7–8: peak trichome density; buds become extremely frosted and compact.
  5. Week 9: terpene maturity phase; fermented citrus and ethanol-gas notes deepen; harvest based on trichome maturity.
  6. Post-Harvest: Dry 18–20 °C, 55–60% RH to preserve volatile fermented-gas terpenes and grape sweetness.

Timelines shift with phenotype and environment; prioritize aroma development and trichome maturity over strict calendar timing.


Genetic Lineage

90 Proof is derived from the fusion of Grape Gas and Pavé, two of Compound Genetics’ most stable and influential modern lines. Grape Gas contributes the dark grape jam sweetness, productive vigor, and rich fermented berry depth. Pavé—an elite collaboration involving Cookies, Compound Genetics, and Quavo—acts as the stabilizing backbone, adding extreme frost, dense flower structure, and the signature diamond-like shimmer that defines the Pavé Candy Collection. This combination was engineered to deliver top-shelf bag appeal and a unique high-proof aromatic profile that stands apart from typical sweet hybrids.


Research Insights

90 Proof represents a 2026 terpene trend focused on “fermented aromatic complexity,” where cultivars are selected for solvent-like sharpness and high-impact aroma persistence rather than pure candy sweetness. Its ethanol-gas profile suggests strong expression of terpene combinations dominated by caryophyllene (fuel-spice depth) and myrcene (body relaxation and resin heaviness), while limonene likely enhances the fermented citrus brightness. This synergy may explain the cultivar’s reputation for clean cerebral intensity paired with steady physical decompression, making it an ideal late afternoon top-shelf hybrid.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is 90 Proof an Indica or Sativa?

90 Proof is classified as an Indica-Leaning Hybrid (approximately 60% Indica / 40% Sativa), offering clear-headed uplift followed by smooth physical relaxation.

What does 90 Proof smell and taste like?

It smells like fermented citrus and ethanol-gas layered over dark grape jam and fermented berries. The flavor is sweet grape candy on the inhale with a dry fuel-gas finish that lingers.

How strong is 90 Proof?

90 Proof is widely reported in the 30%–34% THC range, making it one of the highest-testing cultivars in the Pavé Candy Collection.

How long does 90 Proof take to flower?

90 Proof typically flowers in a full 9 weeks (60–65 days) indoors.

Is 90 Proof good for extraction?

Yes. Due to its Pavé lineage and heavy resin output, 90 Proof is considered an elite candidate for both rosin and BHO extraction, producing a loud and persistent aromatic profile.


Educational Disclaimer: This page is provided for scientific and horticultural reference only and does not constitute medical or promotional advice. Cannabis cultivation, possession, and use are regulated by local laws. Always comply with applicable legislation in your region.