7-Steps to Sample Terpenes Like a True Connoisseur

We're often asked the question: What's the best way to sample terpenes to capture the full sensory experience?

So we've put together this 7-step guide to help you out with a proper expert evaluation.

1. Environment Setup

Choose a neutral environment free from other strong odours or distractions. This will ensure that your senses are attuned only to the terpenes you're evaluating. We recommend a 2-minute breathing exercise to attune into your senses. 

2. Use a Neutral Carrier

When performing sensory analysis on terpenes, don't smell directly out of the bottle. Rather, like with perfume testings, dip a small amount of the liquid on a (paper) test strip. 

 3. Engage Your Sense of Smell

First Impressions: Gently swirl the terpene sample and take an initial short sniff. What do you notice immediately? Deep Inhalation: After the initial sniff, take a deeper inhale. How does the aroma change? What new notes can you identify? Waft the strip around from different distances, until you have a complete idea of the aromas. 

4. Engage Your Taste Buds

Use a neutral carrier oil that won't interfere with the terpene's flavor, like MCT oil. Make sure the oil is at room temperature. Begin by adding one drop of the terpene to 5 ml of the carrier oil (1:100). Stir thoroughly to ensure an even distribution. Dip a clean toothpick into the terpene solution and place it on your tongue. Focus on the initial flavor, the middle palate, and the aftertaste. 

Take notes on the flavor. Is it too weak? Too strong? Just right? If it's too weak, you can incrementally add more terpene, but always err on the side of caution. 

5. Document Your Observations

Use descriptive words to record what you smell and taste. Words like 'piney', 'citrusy', 'earthy', 'fruity' and 'sweet' are commonly used in the terpene world. But don't be limited - your sensory experience is personal. 

6. Compare with Reference Materials

It's always helpful to have a reference material or standard to compare your sample against. This helps in ensuring consistency and understanding the unique profile of each terpene. 

7. Rinse & Repeat

When taste testing multiple terpenes, rinse your mouth out with water between tests to ensure you're getting a clear sense of each terpene's flavor. Revisit the terpenes after some time to see if there are any changes in the aroma or taste.

We hope this helps with your terpene sampling experience.

If you have any further questions about samples or terpene applications, feel free to reach out through our contact form or at customer@terpene-lab.com