The Cannabis Cup has long been the preeminent stage for recognizing superior cannabis genetics and cultivation excellence. Originating in Amsterdam in 1988 under the guidance of High Times magazine, it has since expanded globally, with U.S. editions held in states from California to Michigan. Today, the competition includes a variety of state and regional judge‑based events, such as the California State Fair Cannabis Awards—which in 2025 saw over 600 entries evaluated on scientific measures like terpene and cannabinoid profiles.
Over the years, iconic strains such as Super Silver Haze, Jack Herer, White Widow, and Northern Lights secured multiple Cannabis Cup titles and shaped the industry’s genetic standard. In more recent memory, winners of the Cannabis Cup from 2014–2023 have included standout breeds like Cookies and Cream, Tangie, Strawberry Banana, Lemon Kush, Gorilla Glue #4, Wedding Cake, Runtz, MAC, Jealousy, and Peanut Butter Breath.
But with cannabis markets evolving and commercialization accelerating, the question arises: Are the growers behind these Cup‑winning strains still actively competing—breeding, releasing new varieties, or entering contests today?
One of the most prominent names in the industry is DNA Genetics, a Dutch‑based seed‑breeding firm founded in 2004. The company has amassed over 200 awards, including 14 Cannabis Cup wins, and remains an active force in the market. As of 2025, DNA Genetics continues to release flagship varieties and recently highlighted a “Top 5” lineup poised to dominate the year’s scene. The company also maintains international partnerships—for example, licensing with Copperstate Farms in Arizona, and strategic agreements across U.S. states and Canada.
Another key player is Greenhouse Seeds (also known as Green House or Green House United), creators of Cup-winning strains like Hawaiian Snow and Super Lemon Haze. While current competitive activity by the brand isn’t as clearly documented, their legacy continues to inform modern breeding trends.
In the corporate realm, operators like Copperstate Farms—the largest cannabis greenhouse in North America—are primarily production-focused rather than breeders entering Cup events.
The broader picture reveals a generational shift. Veteran breeders like DNA Genetics still hold relevance through seed sales, licensing, and brand prestige. However, many Cup-winning strains today come from newer breeders who embrace both competition and commercialization in tandem.
In short, many of the top growers behind Cup winners remain actively involved in the industry, though their avenues of influence may have shifted. Rather than continually competing in trophy contests, many now focus on licensing, market expansion, seed distribution, and brand collaborations, capitalizing on the reputational asset that a Cannabis Cup win confers.
Final Thoughts
The Cannabis Cup continues to spotlight exceptional genetics. While not all past winners remain directly in the competition circuit, key legacy breeders like DNA Genetics actively shape the present and future of cannabis through strategic partnerships and seed innovation. Meanwhile, legendary brands like Green House and the rise of powerhouse producers such as Copperstate Farms indicate that the legacy of Cup-winning excellence lives on—both in the genetics and the grower ecosystem.