Budtender Picks...
Top Picks when Stranded on a Deserted Island
Or any other occasion, like Valentine’ s Day.
by Tim Lawrence, AKA Inspector Dank, contributing writer
I initially considered focusing this month’ s selections on Valentine’ s Day, celebrated annually on February 14; however, I opted to highlight the lesser-known Robinson Crusoe Day, observed on February 1. This day commemorates the legacy of the iconic literary character from the classic novel by Daniel Defoe, published in 1719. The story of Robinson Crusoe, an English sailor who becomes stranded on a deserted island for 28 years following a shipwreck, has not only inspired numerous films and television shows but has also become a cultural touchstone. It poses the intriguing question: If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only bring four items, what would they be? Given that this is a magazine dedicated to cannabis, the four items must be cannabis related. Below are my four selections. What would yours be?
Smokiez Blackberry Lemonade Drink –
12 fl. oz. Drink
100mg THC – 100mg CBN per serving
Smokiez had a hit on its hands with the introduction of its THC lemonadeinfused drink last year. This year, it is back with a Blackberry Lemonade infused with equal amounts of both THC and CBN. The predominance of the citrus lemonade flavor is upfront, followed by the sweet, slightly tart, floral blackberry flavor. The drink is slightly carbonated. The drink’ s use of pure cane sugar, real lemon juice, and natural blackberry flavor significantly minimizes that all too familiar cannabis aftertaste. The effects are as one would expect from THC and CBN. Very relaxed and calming. The bliss was smooth sailing. I quite enjoyed this new offering from Smokiez and highly recommend it to those wanting a blended cannabinoid experience. Each serving contains 100mg of nano-emulsified THC and CBN. The drink is conveniently packaged in a child-resistant, resealable XOLUTION can, making it easy to store and ensuring freshness for future enjoyment. Retail price: TBD. Learn more at www. smokiez. com.
Nuvata- Flow 1:1 – Apricot Vape
43.18 % THC – 41.31 % CBD
I have consistently appreciated a wellbalanced cannabis product, and the Nuvata Mind Body series of vaporizers exemplifies this in its core product line. These vaporizers offer terpene-rich, naturally flavored cannabis oil, featuring high THC levels complemented by CBD for optimal balance. The apricot flavor presents a subtle blend of sweet and tangy notes, delivering smooth, pleasant inhalations. The cannabinoid mix aligns perfectly with my expectations for a balanced product, providing mental calmness alongside physical comfort. Central to this blend is the terpene myrcene, which imparts deep relaxation and serenity. Terpinolene contributes a meditative head high, while pinene enhances clarity and perception. Caryophyllene and linalool synergy to offer a warm, comforting sensation. The vaporizer itself is compact and ideal for those seeking a discreet device that delivers a well-balanced experience. Retail price: $ 40. Learn more at: www. nuvata. co.
Escape Velocity – Watermelon Rush – 2-oz Shot
Hybrid – THC 20mg – Caffeine 80mg
The concept of combining cannabis and caffeine initially seemed counterintuitive to me until I explored it further. Recently, I had the opportunity to try the Escape Velocity fast-acting, sugar-free 2-oz infused shot, and it certainly delivers a powerful experience. Each bottle provides a balanced boost with 20mg of THC, which is a great mood enhancer, while the 80mg of caffeine offers clean, focused energy. The onset is reasonably
16 February 2026