Top Shelf, Mids, Quads, AAAA and AAA: Decode the Grade Language

Top Shelf

Top shelf generally means premium positioning.

Someone using the phrase may be reacting to:

The exact mix depends on the speaker.

• appearance
• aroma
• trim
• genetics
• cure
• freshness
• rarity
• producer reputation
• price positioning.

Mids

Mids is informal language for cannabis someone considers middle-of-the-road.

The reason can vary.

A person may mean the aroma is mild, the appearance is ordinary, the cure is average or the value sits in the middle.

Because the term is subjective, ask what characteristic they mean.

Quads / AAAA

Quads is common Canadian slang for AAAA.

It usually signals premium positioning.

It does not come with one mandatory THC range, bud size or terpene number.

AAA and AAA+

AAA is another familiar cannabis retail shorthand.

AAA+ suggests something positioned slightly above a basic AAA label.

At Main Kingston Cannabis, AAA+ Weed is a separate flower category.

Use the category for current products.

Use this guide to understand the terminology.

AA

AA is another common grade shorthand.

At Main Kingston Cannabis, AA Weed is a separate flower category.

The label helps organize the browse.

It does not tell you everything about the flower.

Premium and Exotic

Premium is broad positioning language.

Exotic can suggest unusual genetics, distinctive aroma, rarity or high-end presentation.

Neither is an official government grade.

At Main Kingston Cannabis, Premium Weed and Exotic Weed are separate categories.

Why the Shortcuts Survive

They are fast.

An adult can say:

“I am comparing AA and AAA+.”

and immediately narrow the menu.

The shortcut becomes a problem only when it replaces actual product information.

THC Is Not the Grade

Higher THC does not automatically equal a higher category.

THC is one important measurement.

Quality language often includes characteristics THC does not directly measure:

Keep the number and the grade language separate.

• aroma
• trim
• cure
• freshness
• structure
• trichome appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions