My Favorite Strains: Chernobyl

Chernobyl (re-branded as Golden Ticket) from Redwood Garden Delivery (RGD), Bay Area, CA (@redwoodmeds)

To start off, I am unsure how this strain got its name – Chernobyl – and personally wish it were called something else… due to the lasting effects and seriousness of the true Chernobyl nuclear accident, but I cannot change that now. I can, however, ask readers to educate themselves on Chernobyl, Ukraine (and the surrounding affected areas of Russia and Belarus), and I can also educate you on this beautifully alluring cannabis strain. Upon some research, quite a few medical cannabis providers have renamed Chernobyl, since it’s such a great strain. For example, RGD in California calls the strain Golden Ticket, instead (who doesn’t like Willy Wonka more than a nuclear accident?).

Chernobyl is genetically Sativa dominant (60%), and a hybrid cross of Trainwreck x Trinity x Jack the Ripper. It has a strong Indica backbone (40%), which helps alter the high-energy sativa effect, to a more mellow body buzz.

In my opinion, this trichome coverage is a true characteristic of the Jack the Ripper heritage. The buds are more than average density but a smaller, more compact size. Long, thin orange hairs cover the outer edges of the compartments which comprise the nugs as a whole, which are light green with spots of darker green, creating a nice shading effect to the overall look.

The aroma and terpene profile of Chernobyl is astounding, and very fragrant. The first scent to hit my nose is that of a very fresh, sweet lime. Almost comparable to a limeade beverage with a slice of lemon. However, after a few minutes of smelling these flowers, a trace of a soft, subtle basil herb comes through also.

The taste of Chernobyl follows the scent profile, almost to a “T.” As the smoke rolls off the back of your tongue as you inhale, the limeade/lime tastes come through. It’s a nice delicate lime flavor that reminds me of key lime pie, without the cream. As I exhale, I taste the sweetness of basil and possibly a hint of pine also, which doesn’t surprise me since Chernobyl has Trainwreck genetics.

Due to the almost perfect balance between the sativa and indica proportions of Chernobyl, the effects follow suit in almost the same ratio. As I finished my joint, I realized I was a lot more relaxed than before medicating, but I still had energy to continue my day with motivation, but now with a “go with the flow” demeanor or attitude, without feeling rushed. I noticed my joint pain taper off as I put mental energy elsewhere, which allowed me to relax my muscles more… and hours later, am still feeling the effects of that, with decreased muscle spasms and pain in my joint areas.

So now, as I sit here going over this Chernobyl strain in my head, I surmise that it is a good strain for the average user, for medical or recreational use, during any time of day. However, I may stay away from it as a “wake and bake,” since the Trainwreck qualities can pose a “sneak attack” upon first consumption of the day.