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Golden Bear Awards 2025: California's Finest Cannabis

On July 15, 2025, the California State Fair and embarc came together to honor the finest in the cannabis industry during the prestigious Golden Bear Awards. This year's event highlighted the innovative spirit and agricultural excellence that California is known for, especially in the realm of cannabis cultivation. For 171 years, the California State Fair has celebrated the state's diverse agricultural achievements, and now, with cannabis fully integrated into the fabric of Californian agriculture, it recognizes the top farmers and manufacturers in the state.

Tom Martinez, CEO of the California State Fair, remarked, "For 171 years, the California State Fair has celebrated the rich agricultural bounty and innovative spirit of our state, and the cannabis industry plays a vital role within that legacy. Congratulations to all the Golden Bear winners, this moment celebrates pioneers who continue to define California cannabis."

This year, a remarkable total of over 600 entries were submitted, showcasing the extensive talent within the cannabis industry. Awards were given across various categories, with the following standout products recognized as the best of California:

• - Flower (Sungrown): Pink Boost Goddess (Ocimene) by Emerald Spirit Botanicals and Farm Cut Cooperative, Mendocino County.
• - Flower (Indoor): Blueberry Caviar (Limonene) by Ridgeline Farms, Humboldt County.
• - Flower (Mixed Light): Super Silver Haze (Ocimene) by California Artisanal Medicine, Sacramento.
• - Concentrates: Sour Z Live Rosin Dual Consistency by Ay Papi, Mattole Valley Sungrown, Canyon Creek Family Farms, and My Green Network.
• - Cartridges: Live Resin Disposable Pens Agua Fresca by Casa Flor Family and Holy Water.
• - Pre-rolls: Pink Jesus Hash Holes by Sonoma Hills Farm, Petaluma.
• - Edibles: Whitehorn Rose Single Origin Live Rosin Infused Gummies by Ay Papi and Huckleberry Hill Farms.
• - Beverages: Whitethorn Rose Pomberry Lemonade by Almora Farm.
• - Wellness: Sleep CBD/THC/CBN by Papa Barkley.

The judging process this year was meticulous, with products rigorously tested by SC Labs while also undergoing evaluation from human judging panels using a standardized 100-point system. Judges assessed entries based on their aroma, flavor, appearance, and overall experience, adding a personal touch to this year's awards.

Joseph Haggard, Co-Founder of Emerald Spirit Botanicals, celebrated his farm's recognition, stating, "Emerald Spirit Botanicals and the Farm Cut Cooperative are honored to receive a Golden Bear for Pink Boost Goddess for the second year in a row. For over ten years, our small family farm has taken an approach to cannabis that many considered commercially impossible—exclusive dedication to the breeding, cultivation, and sales of low-THC, minor-cannabinoid-dominant, minimally processed sungrown flower. This path has always been guided by the heart and in service to the spirit of cannabis. We are deeply moved and affirmed in our mission to see our flower acknowledged."

Justin Lee, Founder and CEO of Ay Papi, expressed pride in receiving two Golden Bear Awards for their product lines, reinforcing the notion that the future of cannabis lies in its roots. He remarked, "Taking home two Golden Bear Awards validates that sun-grown, regenerative, organic craft farms continue to lead with quality, flavor, and innovation. Ay Papi stands on the shoulders of the craft farmers. This recognition belongs to them."

Joyce Cenali, Chief Operating Officer of Sonoma Hills Farm, highlighted the uniqueness of their Pink Jesus Hash Holes, stating, "Winning the Golden Bear for our Pink Jesus Hash Hole is a proud validation of everything we stand for in artisan craft cannabis. Each 2g hash hole is meticulously milled, hand-rolled, and crafted for an even, elevated burn, delivering a smooth and potent experience."

To celebrate this year’s winners, embarc will be offering a California State Fair capsule containing all nine Golden Bear award products, available at their 16 dispensary locations and through delivery in Sacramento. As California continues to lead the way in cannabis innovation and quality, the Golden Bear Awards shine a light on the outstanding contributions of its farmers and manufacturers.

For those interested in experiencing the award-winning products, visiting any of the designated dispensary locations or the onsite lounge at the California State Fair is a fantastic opportunity to engage with the rich tapestry of California’s cannabis culture.