ROSIN 101
Concentrates can be confusing.
we’re here to break it all down for you.
So, what is rosin?
Unlike other extracts that use chemicals like alcohol, butane, or CO2, rosin is made with just heat and pressure. This simple, clean process squeezes every drop of golden goodness from the plant, giving you a pure and natural concentrate you can feel good about.
TYPES OF CONCENTRATES:
ROSIN, LIVE ROSIN & THE OTHERS
Not all concentrates are created equal. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s out there and why rosin and live rosin are in a league of their own:
ROSIN
DEFINITION: Rosin is a cannabis concentrate made using heat and pressure to extract oils from cannabis plant material.
PROCESS: Flower or hash is placed between parchment paper and pressed with a heat source (like a hair straightener or specialized rosin press). The pressure and heat release the plant's oils, which are then collected.
APPEARANCE: May range from golden yellow to dark amber color, depending on the starting material and pressing conditions.
QUALITY: May vary widely based on the cannabis used and the technique. Rosin from fresh, high-quality cannabis tends to be superior.
live rosin
DEFINITION: A subset of rosin where the cannabis material is "fresh-frozen" or "live.”
PROCESS: Cannabis plants are harvested and immediately frozen to preserve the terpenes and cannabinoids. This frozen material is then used to make rosin, aiming to capture a truer expression of the plant's profile.
APPEARANCE: Typically lighter in color due to the preservation of terpenes, often with a more translucent, sometimes shatter-like consistency.
QUALITY: Generally considered to be of higher quality because it retains more of the plant's original aroma and flavor.
hash
DEFINITION: Hash, or hashish, is a cannabis concentrate made from the resin glands (trichomes) of the cannabis plant.
PROCESS: There are various methods to make hash, including, dry sifting (Rubbing or sifting to collect trichomes, just like your grinder.), ice water extraction, and hand rolling.
APPEARANCE: Can vary from light blonde to dark brown or black, depending on the method, strain, and purity
QUALITY: Depends on the method of collection, the strain, and how well the trichomes are separated from plant material. High-quality hash should be potent, flavorful, and relatively clean from plant matter.
WHAT ARE SOLVENTS?
“Solvent” based concentrates refer to products made using harmful chemicals such as butane, propane, ethanol, etc., which are used during the extraction process to separate cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material.
solvent based concentrates:
LIVE RESIN
BHO
DISTILLATE
CO2 OIL
tl;dr wHY ROSIN IS THE BEST
Pure
& Simple
pristine
flavor
smooth,
clean hits
More Bang
for Your Buck
CONSISTENCIES
Rosin comes in various consistencies, each offering unique flavors, textures, and experiences. Understanding the differences can help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
fress press
A clear, glassy consistency formed immediately after pressing, showcasing the rosin’s raw, original form.
cold cure
Low-temperature cured rosin stored in jars at 50°F to 60°F for days to weeks becomes creamy and batter-like.
jam
Rosin that has been whipped or heat-cured for a glossy, jam-like texture, typically by applying gentle heat to cold-cured rosin.
sugar
Rosin crystallizes during curing, creating granular crystals in terpene-rich oil, either naturally or via specific post-processing.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT ROSIN?
Choosing the right rosin depends on your preferences, needs, and experience with cannabis products. Here’s a guide to help you decide:
looking to
get into rosin?
COLD CURE OR SUGAR
BEST FOR
Users who want a balance of flavor and usability.
WHY CHOOSE IT?
Easy to handle
CONSIDER IF:
You prefer a stable concentrate that’s beginner-friendly and flavorful.
LOOKING FOR
flavor?
COLD CURE
BEST FOR
Flavor connoisseurs
WHY CHOOSE IT?
Intensified terpene profiles, ideal for bold flavor experiences.
CONSIDER IF:
You prefer a stable concentrate that’s beginner-friendly and flavorful.
LOOKING FOR convenience?
SUGAR
BEST FOR
Users who value potency and versatility.
WHY CHOOSE IT?
Gritty texture that’s easy to handle with high terpene and cannabinoid content
CONSIDER IF:
You want a powerful and easy option for various consumption methods.
So I need to get a dab rig now?
Not necessarily. While a dab rig is the gold standard for enjoying rosin, it’s not the only way to savor the good stuff. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
dab rigs & e-nails
For the full rosin effect, use a dab rig or e-nail. Heat the Quartz nail low and slow for maximum flavor, then drop in your rosin and inhale the terpene-rich vapor. Pro tip: Use a carb cap for a consistent hit.
VAPORIZERS
Not ready to commit to a rig? Try a dab pen or portable e-rig for on-the-go rosin—no torch needed. Consider the Puffco Pivot or Peak, or grab one of our disposable vapes for convenience and flavor.
INFUSED PRE-ROLLS
Roll rosin into your joint or blunt for an elevated smoke session. Enhance your flower with bold flavors and potent effects that impress.
if you’ve made it this far:
congrats. you’re officially rosin curious.
YOU STILL MIGHT not know what type of rosin is best for you. That’s okay.
Experiment. Try different strains and consistencies. Don’t be afraid to mix it up. Host dab parties with friends. Take advantage of deals. Explore your options. And most importantly, have fun with it. Rosin isn’t a one-size-fits-all product, so enjoy discovering what works best for you.
now go buy some at a dispensary near you
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: HOW DO I USE ROSIN?
A: The most popular ways to enjoy rosin are dabbing or adding it to a joint. Use a dab rig or an e-nail for a smooth, flavorful experience, or mix it into your flower for an extra kick.
Q: what’s the difference between live rosin & live resin?
A: The only thing these two have in common is the “Live.” And all that means is fresh frozen flower. Live Resin is still a solvent-based extraction method and there’s no way around that.
Q: WHY IS ROSIN MORE EXPENSIVE?
A: Rosin’s price reflects the high-quality inputs (fresh flower or bubble hash) and the labor-intensive process. You get what you pay for—pure cannabis excellence.
Q: does rosin go bad?
A: Keep your rosin in a cool, dark place or a fridge to preserve its terpenes and consistency. If left in the sun or a warm space, the rosin may dry out.