Woman on barstool smoking joint, hotel bar at midnight

Herb

Most Popular Weed Concentrates in California

Your definitive guide to California's top 10 cannabis concentrates, from ultra-potent diamonds to flavor-forward sauce

Since California’s adult-use market opened in 2018, the state’s concentrate market has grown significantly, with licensed concentrate sales reaching $306.4 million in the January through November 2025 reporting period alone, according to DCC data via Cannabis Business Times. From San Diego to Eureka, concentrates offer consumers unprecedented potency, flavor, and variety. Whether you’re a dabbing veteran or just exploring beyond flower, knowing which products deliver real value is essential in this competitive landscape. For those new to concentrates, Herb’s guide to cannabis concentrates provides essential background before you shop.

Key Takeaways

  • Live resin is among the most popular concentrate formats: Fresh-frozen extraction preserves terpenes, creating flavor-rich experiences that frequently appear among top-selling products in California
  • Price range varies widely: Prices differ significantly by brand, retailer, and region, with solventless products generally commanding a premium over hydrocarbon extracts
  • Solventless extraction often costs more: Products like rosin and ice water hash are frequently priced above solvent-based extracts due to labor-intensive production
  • Vertical integration supports consistency: Brands controlling cultivation through extraction (like Raw Garden and STIIIZY) describe higher consistency in their production processes
  • THC content isn’t everything: Terpene profiles increasingly influence purchasing decisions as consumers seek specific effects and flavor experiences. For example, individual product tests have shown 2.73% terpenes in Buddies Blueberry Cupcake and 10.2% in GoldDrop Mendo Breath

1. Raw Garden Refined Live Resin™ Diamonds

Raw Garden has become synonymous with California concentrate excellence, consistently appearing on dispensary menus from San Diego to Eureka. Their Refined Live Resin™ Diamonds represent the pinnacle of their extraction expertise, offering unmatched potency with surprising accessibility.

The brand’s vertical integration, controlling from seed to oil, ensures a high degree of consistency. Their Clean Green certified sustainable farming practices appeal to environmentally conscious consumers while delivering exceptional quality.

Why It’s California’s Top Concentrate (#1 in concentrates by market share in 3Q23, per Headset via Zuanic):

  • Exceptional potency: 92-96% total cannabinoids, among the most potent mainstream dab concentrates available
  • Perfectly sized for single dabs: No scalpel required, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced users
  • Strain-specific terpenes: Aroma-coded batches (Citrus, Gas, Berry) ensure you know exactly what flavor profile to expect
  • Dewaxing process: Removes lipids while reintroducing strain-specific terpenes for smoother vapor

Best For: High-tolerance users seeking maximum potency, medical patients requiring consistent dosing, anyone wanting premium quality without breaking the bank

Price & Availability:

  • Prices vary by retailer; Raw Garden offers real-time pricing via its store locator
  • Widely available at many licensed California retailers

“California’s concentrate scene is loud, fast, and fiercely competitive. Yet one name keeps popping up on dispensary menus from San Diego to Eureka, Raw Garden.”

2. STIIIZY Curated Live Resin Sauce

STIIIZY has revolutionized concentrate accessibility with their Curated Live Resin Sauce, combining solvent-based extraction from flash-frozen cannabis with mass-market appeal. With 25% vape market share as of 3Q23 and approximately 58 retail locations statewide as of December 2025, they’ve made premium concentrates approachable for mainstream consumers.

Their flash-freezing process captures the plant at peak freshness, preserving the full cannabinoid and terpene spectrum before solvent-based extraction.

What Makes STIIIZY Special:

  • Competitive pricing: Prices vary by retailer and location, but STIIIZY generally positions its sauce concentrates as accessible within the live resin category
  • Flash-frozen live resin: Preserves natural terpenes by capturing the plant at peak freshness before solvent-based extraction
  • Versatile product lineup: Sauce concentrates are ideal for traditional dab rigs, while STIIIZY also sells vape pods using different oil formulations for their proprietary pod system
  • Massive retail presence: ~58 California locations ensure consistent availability

Best For: Budget-conscious consumers seeking premium quality, first-time concentrate users, anyone wanting consistent quality with widespread availability

Price & Availability:

  • Prices vary by retailer and location; check local dispensary menus for current pricing
  • ~58 California retail locations as of December 2025

3. 710 Labs Persy Live Rosin

710 Labs has earned a reputation as solventless specialists among California cannabis connoisseurs, pioneering solventless extraction techniques since around 2009 (brand materials cite both 2009 and 2010). Their Persy Live Rosin represents the gold standard for purity-focused consumers willing to pay premium prices for exceptional quality.

Over more than a decade of operation, they’ve built a reputation for innovation and consistency that commands respect across the industry. Their products cater to experienced users who appreciate the nuances of solventless extraction.

Why Connoisseurs Choose 710 Labs:

  • Premium solventless quality: Water hash and live rosin techniques preserve the plant’s full essence
  • Sugar concentrate format: Crystallized cannabinoids suspended in terpene-rich sauce create a balanced consumption experience
  • Pioneering reputation: Over a decade of solventless innovation has established them as industry leaders
  • Solvent-based lines also available: For their solvent-based products, they use hydrocarbon extraction with lab testing and compliance standards to preserve sauce and badder quality

Best For: Cannabis purists who value solventless extraction, experienced users seeking nuanced flavor profiles, collectors willing to pay premium prices for exceptional quality

Price & Availability:

  • Typically positioned in the premium tier; prices vary by retailer and product line
  • Available at premium dispensaries statewide

“710 Labs rosin pods are the highest quality solventless vapes I’ve had.” – Anecdotal consumer quote via Vallejo Relief Center

4. GoldDrop THCA Micro Diamonds

GoldDrop has captured attention with their innovative microcrystal format, making THCA diamonds more accessible and easier to handle than traditional large shards. Their Mendo Breath Liquid Diamond Sauce, testing at 69.9% THC with 10.2% terpenes, exemplifies their commitment to both terpene richness and targeted effects.

The brand’s focus on effects-based selection, like their Mendo Breath strain with high caryophyllene content, has been described by reviewers as relaxing and stress-relieving, showing sophisticated understanding of consumer needs beyond just THC percentages.

GoldDrop’s Unique Advantages:

  • Microcrystal innovation: Micro diamond format is easier to handle than traditional diamond shards
  • High terpene content: Up to 10.2% terpenes creates enhanced effects and complex flavor profiles
  • Effects-based selection: Terpene-forward products (including caryophyllene-rich options) formulated for specific consumer preferences
  • Diamond Badder format: Combines potency with creamy texture for versatile consumption

Best For: Flavor enthusiasts seeking complex terpene profiles, users wanting effects-specific products, anyone preferring microcrystals over traditional diamond shards

Price & Availability:

  • Positioned in the premium diamond category; check local dispensary menus for current pricing
  • Featured prominently in premium dispensaries

“Microcrystals of THCA diamonds look like glistening fluff inside a jar…a huge smack of effects crushes the senses in a high-THC high that’s ready for the couch.” – Wes Abney, Cannabis Reviewer

5. Jetty Extracts Live Resin

Jetty Extracts, founded in 2013, has built a decade-plus reputation for consistent quality that has earned them a loyal following among California consumers. Their products appeal to health-conscious consumers while maintaining exceptional flavor.

Their commitment to transparency, with QR codes linking to lab results and batch information, sets them apart in an industry often lacking traceability.

Jetty’s Quality Markers:

  • Craft-focused production: Ensures quality control and vivid flavor in every batch
  • Full traceability: QR codes provide transparency about testing and batch details
  • Consumer favorite for focus and relief: Many consumers report choosing Jetty for daytime use
  • Heat-and-pressure diamond finish: Adds craft appeal to their premium products

Best For: Health-conscious consumers seeking products that meet California’s rigorous testing standards, medical patients requiring consistent dosing, anyone valuing product transparency and traceability

Price & Availability:

  • Positioned in the premium category; check local dispensary menus for current pricing
  • Available at dispensaries emphasizing quality and transparency

“Jetty Extracts have been serving top-tier, pesticide-free delights for nearly a decade. Their dedication to small-batch BHO extraction is evident in every puff.” – Herb.co Editorial Team

6. Buddies Diamonds and Sauce

Buddies has carved a niche with dessert-forward flavor profiles that appeal to a broader audience beyond traditional cannabis consumers. Their Blueberry Cupcake strain, testing at 85.39% THC with 2.73% terpenes, delivers on its name with bakery-fresh aromas that attract both flavor chasers and potency seekers.

Their collaborations with premium cultivators like Ember Valley select SKUs provide access to notable genetics, while their diamonds and sauce format offers versatility for different consumption preferences.

What Sets Buddies Apart:

  • Dessert-forward flavors: Products like Blueberry Cupcake deliver authentic bakery aromas
  • Diamonds and sauce format: Combines potency (THCA crystals) with terpene-rich liquid for full-spectrum effects
  • Cultivator collaborations: Partnerships with premium growers on select products bring in sought-after genetics
  • Competitive mid-premium pricing: Quality products at accessible price points

Best For: Flavor enthusiasts seeking dessert-like profiles, users wanting versatile consumption options, anyone looking for quality products with competitive pricing

Price & Availability:

  • Mid-premium pricing tier; prices vary by retailer
  • Available at dispensaries emphasizing flavor and innovation

“Opening a jar feels like cracking an oven full of freshly baked muffins, with bright bursts of blueberry and creamy, gassy baked dough.” – Wes Abney, Cannabis Reviewer

7. Sluggers Live Sauce

Sluggers represents Sacramento’s concentrate powerhouse, delivering complex terpene profiles that have earned them a loyal regional following. Their Euphoria strain, testing at 72% THC, lives up to its name with heady effects and rainbow-like terpene complexity.

As part of Natura, Sluggers benefits from innovative parent company expertise while maintaining focus on premium concentrate production.

Sluggers’ Distinctive Qualities:

  • Complex terpene profiles: “Golden glimpses of rainbow terps” with vanilla gas, warming cookies, lemon, and ginger notes
  • Regional powerhouse status: Strong Sacramento following with expanding statewide presence
  • Euphoric effects: Strain names accurately reflect the experience they deliver
  • Product diversity: Offers Rainbow Road Rosin and The Ace hash hole pre-rolls alongside concentrates

Best For: Terpene hunters seeking complex flavor profiles, Sacramento-area consumers, anyone wanting regional brand authenticity

Price & Availability:

  • Positioned in the live sauce category; check local dispensary menus for current pricing
  • Strong regional presence with expanding statewide availability

“Flavor profile truly worthy of the name Euphoria…creamy and tingle with a terpy, sherbet-like rainbow.” – Leaf Magazines

8. Cannabiotix (CBX) Concentrates

Cannabiotix stands out with exclusive in-house genetics that differentiate their concentrates from competitors relying on common strains. As California’s #1 flower brand (excluding house brands) with 4.2% market share in 3Q23, their cultivation expertise translates directly to exceptional concentrate quality.

Their resilient sales performance, including +7.4% growth per RollPros in their pre-roll market analysis during a challenging market period, demonstrates a loyal customer base willing to pay premium prices for unique genetics and consistent quality.

Cannabiotix’s Competitive Edge:

  • Exclusive genetics: Award-winning strains with proprietary genetics unavailable elsewhere
  • Single-source concentrates: Ensures consistency from cultivation to extraction
  • Craft-quality approach: Appeals to connoisseurs seeking unique genetics and high potency
  • Resilient sales: +7.4% growth in RollPros’ pre-roll analysis despite overall market decline

Best For: Cannabis collectors seeking unique genetics, connoisseurs wanting exclusive strains, anyone willing to pay premium prices for craft quality

Price & Availability:

  • Positioned in the premium tier; prices vary by retailer
  • Available at premium dispensaries emphasizing craft quality

“Cannabiotix’s commitment to consistency continues to attract loyal consumers, reinforcing their reputation…Their ability to maintain loyalty while attracting new buyers highlights their strength.” – RollPros Market Analysis

9. West Coast Cure Live Rosin

West Coast Cure is often positioned as a more accessible solventless rosin option in California, making premium extraction approachable for a broader range of consumers. As one of only four brands above 3% total California market share in the 3Q23 Headset/Zuanic report (at 3.0%), they’ve proven that quality and value can coexist.

Their “authentic West Coast gas” flavor profile resonates with traditional California cannabis culture, while their extensive product range covers both solventless and solvent-based formats.

West Coast Cure’s Value Proposition:

  • Accessible solventless option: Generally positioned as a value-oriented choice within the solventless category, though prices vary by retailer
  • Extensive product range: Covers both solventless (rosin) and solvent-based (resin) formats
  • Cultural authenticity: “West Coast gas” flavor profile appeals to traditional cannabis culture
  • Significant market presence: 3.0% California market share (3Q23) makes them widely accessible

Best For: Budget-conscious consumers seeking solventless quality, first-time rosin users, anyone wanting value without sacrificing quality

Price & Availability:

  • Generally positioned as a value option in the solventless category; check local retailer menus for current pricing
  • Widely available due to significant market share

10. Cresco Live Resin

Cresco brings national brand expertise to California’s concentrate market, offering fresh-frozen live resin that has been “silently stealing the hearts of all who smoke it.” Their extensive product range, covering live resin, budder, sugar, sauce, and shatter, provides versatility that appeals to diverse consumer preferences.

As a national brand, Cresco’s scaling expertise has helped ensure consistent quality, while their fresh-frozen processing emphasizes flavor preservation over maximum THC extraction.

Cresco’s Strengths:

  • Fresh-frozen processing: Preserves flavor and aroma at peak potency
  • Smooth, consistent texture: Buddery consistency across product range ensures reliable dabbing experience
  • Extensive format variety: Five different concentrate types offer maximum consumer choice
  • National quality standards: Scaling expertise ensures consistency across all products

Best For: Consumers seeking national brand reliability, users wanting format variety, anyone prioritizing flavor preservation over maximum THC

Price & Availability:

  • Positioned in the mid-premium category; check local dispensary menus for current pricing
  • Availability may be limited due to Cresco’s announced California divestiture; check your local dispensary

“Crafted from premium, fresh-frozen weed, Cresco has been silently stealing the hearts of all who smoke it.” – Herb.co Editorial Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between solvent-based and solventless concentrates?

Solvent-based concentrates like live resin use chemical solvents (such as butane, propane, CO₂, or ethanol) to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis material. Solventless concentrates like rosin and ice water hash use only physical methods (heat, pressure, ice, and water) to separate trichomes from plant material. Solventless products typically command higher prices due to more labor-intensive production and are preferred by consumers concerned about residual solvents, though licensed products must pass residual solvent testing under California’s regulatory standards.

How can I ensure I'm getting a quality concentrate in California?

Always purchase from licensed California dispensaries and look for products with batch or COA (certificate of analysis) access, often available via QR code or on request. Quality concentrates should have clear labeling showing THC/CBD content, terpene profiles, and batch information. Look for products from reputable brands with transparent sourcing and extraction methods. Avoid products with inconsistent texture, unusual odors, or prices significantly below market average, as these may indicate quality issues or contamination.

What equipment do I need to consume concentrates?

For dabbing, you’ll need a dab rig (specialized water pipe), nail or banger (quartz or titanium attachment that heats up), dabber tool, and torch or e-nail for heating. Vape pens and cartridges offer more portable options requiring only a compatible battery. For beginners, Herb’s guide to consumption methods provides detailed information on equipment and techniques. Some concentrates can also be added to flower in bowls or joints for enhanced effects.

How should I store concentrates to maintain potency and freshness?

Store concentrates in airtight, non-stick containers (preferably silicone or glass) in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Refrigeration can help preserve terpenes in live resin products, but avoid freezing as it can degrade texture. Keep products in child-resistant packaging when not in use, and always store out of reach of children and pets. Quality degrades over time, so consume sooner rather than later and avoid repeated temperature swings for best results.

Are concentrates safe to consume, and how do I dose properly?

When purchased from licensed dispensaries and properly tested, concentrates are safe for adult consumption. However, their high potency (concentrates often range from 60-90% THC, with some products like diamonds and isolates testing even higher) requires careful dosing, especially for new users. Start with a very small amount and wait several minutes to assess effects before consuming more, as it is easy to overconsume with high-potency concentrates. Remember that Herb’s content is educational only, not medical advice, and individual responses to cannabis can vary significantly based on tolerance, metabolism, and other factors.

Herb Recommended Products:

Featured Brands:

Herb Recommended Products:

READ MORE