Written by Ad OpsOverview and Context
MAC V1 x GG4 is a modern hybrid that fuses two heaviest hitters of the past decade into one resin-charged, terpene-forward cultivar. Bred by Yetis Pheno, this cross seeks to merge the dense, gluey trichome coverage and knockout potency of GG4 with the complex citrus-cookie-fuel bouquet and balanced euphoria of MAC V1. In practice, that means a cultivar designed for top-tier bag appeal, high test results, and a layered sensory experience that satisfies both connoisseurs and medical users.
Although the exact cut and selections will vary by grower, MAC V1 x GG4 typically expresses vigorous, medium-tall plants with thick, frosted colas and a pungent, lingering aroma. With optimized cultivation, it commonly reaches high-THC territory, while total terpene content can rival elite boutique varieties. This is a cultivar built for rooms that value both performance and personality, offering the potential for standout jars when dialed in.
As a new-school hybrid, MAC V1 x GG4 reflects a broader trend in breeding toward combining elite, proven parents for synergistic results. Growers report that it can be both demanding and rewarding, skewing toward dense flowers and heavy resin that require careful environmental control. When handled correctly, the payoffs include striking visual frost, a robust flavor arc, and a satisfying, multifaceted effect profile.
History and Breeding Background
This cross originates from Yetis Pheno, a breeder known for selecting vigorous, terpene-rich parents and stress-testing progeny for garden reliability. The broad aim with MAC V1 x GG4 was to preserve the glossy resin and depth of MAC while recovering the sky-high potency and diesel-funk signature of Gorilla Glue #4. That pairing reflects a deliberate attempt to harness complementary strengths rather than simply stack similar traits.
MAC (Miracle Alien Cookies) itself is a clash of Alien Cookies, Colombian, and Starfighter, created by Capulator and celebrated for its thick frost and citrus-cookie-gas terpenes. GG4, bred by GG Strains, became a global standard for potency and stickiness, known for resin that can literally gum up scissors. By combining the MAC V1 cut with GG4, Yetis Pheno aimed at a phenotype set that could realize a ‘best of both worlds’ outcome: density, power, and complexity.
Early reports from test gardens align with that mission, highlighting dense, resin-laden colas, a gassy-citrus bouquet, and per-plant yield improvements over most MAC-leaners. Because MAC can be finicky and lower yielding, the GG4 infusion helps improve vigor and production without washing out the MAC’s nuanced flavor. The result is a cross that feels both familiar and fresh, slotting comfortably into commercial and craft programs alike.
Genetic Lineage and Inheritance
The lineage pairs MAC V1, a specific Miracle Alien Cookies selection, with Gorilla Glue #4, a Chem Sis x Sour Dubb x Chocolate Diesel hybrid. MAC V1 contributes a stacked toolkit of resin production genes, lime-citrus and cookie-sweet volatiles, and a tendency toward heavy calyx coverage. GG4 contributes its hallmark diesel-fuel terps, sky-high THC potential, and that unmistakable ‘glue’ resin that coats everything it touches.
In the F1 generation, growers can expect phenotype variation centering on the balance between MAC-dominant and GG4-dominant traits. MAC-leaning phenos often show tighter internodes, ultra-thick frosting, and more citrus-cookie sweetness on the nose. GG4-leaning phenos emphasize larger colas, moderate stretch, and louder diesel, earth, and chem tones that dominate the top notes.
Across the set, expect medium-tall plants with 1.6–2.2x stretch after the flip, and internodal spacing commonly ranging 1.5–3 inches when light intensity is strong. The resin heads tend to be abundant and robust, which is favorable for both solventless and hydrocarbon extraction. Most phenos finish in 63–70 days of flowering, with GG4-leaners skewing earlier and MAC-leaners needing a few extra days for full maturity.
Visual Characteristics and Bag Appeal
MAC V1 x GG4 tends to produce dense, chunky colas capped with a thick layer of trichomes that gleam under light. The calyxes stack closely, creating a golf-ball to spear-shaped structure that looks heavy even before trimming. Sugar leaves are often narrow to medium, curling close to the bud and carrying a frosty edge that accentuates the bag appeal.
Colors are typically forest to sage green, with occasional purple blushes in cooler night temperatures during late flower. Pistils start vibrant orange to tangerine and progressively darken toward rust as maturity approaches. When properly grown and cured, the buds exhibit a glassy, high-resin sheen that conveys potency before the jar is even opened.
Trimmers report a notably ‘sticky’ feel, reflecting the GG4 resin signature and the MAC’s dense trichome coverage. The finished flower often weighs heavy for its size due to calyx density and low leaf-to-bud ratio on well-managed phenos. Overall, the visual impression is premium, with distinctively frosted, tightly formed nugs suited to top-shelf presentation.
Aroma and Flavor Breakdown
On the nose, MAC V1 x GG4 is a layered mix of citrus, fuel, earth, and cookie-cream sweetness. The initial top note is frequently a bright lime or tangy citrus rind that reads clean and energizing. Beneath that, GG4’s diesel-chem core pushes through, adding a pungent, slightly acrid gasoline tone that lingers in the air.
As the bouquet opens, many phenos reveal vanilla-cookie sweetness and a hint of herbal spice reminiscent of cracked pepper and green pine. That peppery-spice note is consistent with beta-caryophyllene expression, while the piney accent points to alpha-pinene. A subtle earthy backdrop, sometimes with humulene-driven woody bitterness, rounds out the aroma into a cohesive, unmistakable signature.
The flavor tracks the aroma closely, with a citrus-diesel front end followed by cookie and cream undertones on the exhale. Low-temperature vaporization emphasizes limonene’s lemon-lime zest, while higher combustion tends to bring forward diesel, pepper, and earth. The finish is persistent, often leaving a tangy, fuel-kissed sweetness on the palate for several minutes.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency
While exact potency depends on cultivation variables and lab methodology, MAC V1 x GG4 commonly lands in high-THC territory. Given MAC V1’s frequent 20–24% THC range and GG4’s well-documented 18–28% THC range, the cross reasonably targets 22–27% THC in dialed-in rooms. Some standout phenos and optimized runs may test above 28% THC, while less dialed environments may see high-teens to low-20s results.
Minor cannabinoids typically present in small but meaningful amounts, with CBGA often leading the minors, and trace CBG and CBC occasionally detected. Total cannabinoids frequently reach 24–32% by weight in high-performance examples, aligning with modern boutique standards. That said, potency should never be assumed; growers and consumers should rely on batch-specific COAs for accurate numbers.
From a pharmacological perspective, high THC combined with a robust terpene load can intensify perceived potency and modulate the character of the effects. Studies have shown that terpenes such as limonene and caryophyllene can influence subjective experience even when present at sub-1% levels. In practice, consumers often describe MAC V1 x GG4 as stronger than the number alone suggests, due to synergistic aroma chemistry and dense resin content.
Terpene Profile and Chemistry
Terpene dominance in MAC V1 x GG4 commonly leans toward beta-caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene, with meaningful contributions from humulene and pinene. Total terpene content in well-grown batches often falls between 1.5–3.5% of dried flower weight, placing it in a competitive range for flavor intensity. Individual terpenes may appear approximately as follows: caryophyllene 0.4–0.8%, limonene 0.3–0.7%, myrcene 0.2–0.6%, humulene 0.1–0.4%, and alpha-pinene 0.05–0.2%.
Caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene also found in black pepper, is notable for its interaction with CB2 receptors and is frequently linked to peppery-spice notes. Limonene contributes citrus brightness and is often associated with mood-elevating, anxiolytic-leaning effects in observational research. Myrcene can smooth the profile with earthy, musky tones and may contribute to body relaxation when present alongside THC.
Humulene and pinene support the backbone, adding woody bitterness and pine-fresh clarity that help the bouquet feel clean rather than cloying. Together, this terpene set paints a full-spectrum aromatic arc that holds up under combustion and shines in vaporization. For extractors, the robust sesquiterpene layer often yields concentrates with powerful nose and stable texture.
Experiential Effects and Use Cases
MAC V1 x GG4 typically delivers a fast-onset cerebral lift that transitions into a dense, full-body calm. The initial phase is often described as clear, buoyant, and mildly euphoric, with the limonene top note contributing to a positive headspace. As the session progresses, caryophyllene and myrcene tones may steer the experience toward grounded relaxation and a warm, soothing body feel.
Most consumers characterize the overall journey as balanced but potent, with strong psychoactivity that can become couch-leaning at higher doses. Inhaled onset generally occurs within 2–5 minutes, peaks at 30–60 minutes, and can last 2–4 hours depending on tolerance and route. With edibles or tinctures made from this cultivar, onset can extend to 30–120 minutes and effects may last 4–8 hours or longer.
Commonly reported experiences include a blend of mood elevation, body ease, sensory enhancement, and a comfortable slowdown suitable for evenings or creative downtime. Some users find it compatible with music, films, and focused solo tasks that do not require rapid multitasking. As with all high-THC varieties, sensitive users should start low to avoid racing thoughts or over-sedation.
Potential Medical Applications and Considerations
While individual responses vary, MAC V1 x GG4’s chemical profile suggests potential utility for stress, mood, and pain-related complaints. Observational studies of inhaled cannabis have reported average symptom reductions around 3.5 points on a 0–10 scale across conditions, though results depend on dose, chemotype, and individual factors. The presence of caryophyllene has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity via CB2 pathways, which may complement THC’s central effects.
Limonene-rich profiles are often associated with improved mood and reduced perceived stress in survey data, which may benefit users aiming to decompress after work. Myrcene and linalool, when present, can deepen body relaxation and may assist with settling into sleep in the later part of the experience. For neuropathic or inflammatory pain, the combination of high THC and sesquiterpenes such as caryophyllene and humulene can be perceived as particularly soothing by some patients.
Potential adverse effects include dry mouth and dry eyes, reported by 20–30% of users in general cannabis surveys, along with occasional dizziness. A smaller fraction, roughly 3–10% depending on dose and individual susceptibility, may experience transient anxiety or rapid heart rate with high-THC inhalation. Patients should consult a qualified clinician before using cannabis for medical purposes, especially when taking other medications or managing complex conditions.
Cultivation Guide: From Seed to Harvest
MAC V1 x GG4 rewards careful growers with dense, resinous flowers, but it appreciates a well-managed environment. Vegetative growth is moderate to vigorous with a strong apical tendency, making topping and lateral training useful to spread the canopy. Expect a 1.6–2.2x stretch post-flip, so plan vertical space and early training to keep tops in the optimal light zone.
A standard veg cycle of 4–6 weeks under 18/6 or 20/4 lighting develops sturdy branching and nodes ready for multiple tops. In soil or soilless, target pH 6.2–6.8; in hydro or coco, aim for pH 5.8–6.2 to maximize nutrient availability. Keep veg EC around 1.2–1.6 (600–800 ppm 500-scale), and raise to 1.8–2.2 EC (900–1100 ppm 500-scale) through peak flower if plants signal demand.
Flip to flower once the canopy is evenly netted or the plants reach 60–70% of final intended height. Typical flowering time is 63–70 days, with GG4-leaners finishing closer to 63–65 and MAC-leaners closer to 67–70. Watch for dense cola formation in weeks 4–7, and maintain strong airflow to mitigate botrytis risk.
Environmental Parameters and Nutrient Management
Maintain veg temperatures at 24–28°C with 60–70% RH, targeting a VPD of roughly 0.8–1.1 kPa. In early flower, shift to 22–26°C with 50–60% RH for a VPD near 1.0–1.3 kPa, and in late flower reduce to 20–25°C with 45–55% RH for 1.2–1.5 kPa. MAC V1 x GG4’s dense buds respond well to conservative humidity in weeks 6–10 to keep molds at bay.
Light intensity should rise with plant maturity, aiming for 600–800 µmol/m²/s PPFD in late veg and 900–1200 µmol/m²/s PPFD by mid-flower. With CO2 enrichment at 1000–1400 ppm, plants can utilize the higher end of that range and may support a daily light integral of 40–55 mol/m²/day. Always ramp intensity over several days to avoid light stress and bleaching.
Nutritionally, the cultivar appreciates balanced feeding with sturdy calcium and magnesium support. Provide 120–160 ppm calcium and 40–60 ppm magnesium in coco or hydro, and supplement lightly in soilless mixes if deficiency signs appear. Keep nitrogen strong in veg, then taper N while boosting phosphorus and potassium from weeks 3–7 of flower to support bud density and resin development.
Training, Pruning, and Canopy Strategy
Topping at the 4th–6th node encourages multiple mains and reduces apical dominance that can lead to larfy lowers. Low-stress training and SCROG nets are highly effective for distributing light, especially given the cultivar’s medium internode spacing and substantial stretch. A single or double net allows for even canopy management and sturdier colas in late flower.
Defoliation should be measured but consistent; MAC-leaning phenos can pack leaves tightly around colas, restricting airflow. Consider a light leaf strip around day 21 and a follow-up at day 42, focusing on interior leaves and shaded sites. Avoid over-stripping, which can shock MAC-leaners and stall bud swell.
Lollipopping lower growth zones improves energy distribution to the top and mid-canopy where light is strongest. Aim for clear, well-ventilated lower stems by the end of week 3 in flower. This approach reduces popcorn buds and can improve harvest uniformity and trim quality.
Pest, Disease, and Integrated Pest Management
The density and resin of MAC V1 x GG4 can attract pests like spider mites and thrips, and the thick colas can be vulnerable to botrytis in high humidity. Implement weekly scouting with a 60–100x loupe, checking the undersides of leaves and interior canopy. Sticky cards and yellow traps provide early indicators of flying pest pressure.
Preventive biologicals such as Beauveria bassiana for soft-bodied pests and Bacillus subtilis or Bacillus amyloliquefaciens for powdery mildew can be integrated into rotations. Maintain strong, multidirectional airflow and keep canopy RH below 55% from mid-flower onward to reduce mold risk. Sanitation—clean tools, filtered intakes, and strict entry protocols—can reduce pest incidence by 50% or more in controlled facilities compared to lax practices.
In case of outbreak, escalate with compatible treatments during early flower and prioritize mechanical removal and environmental correction later. Prune infected tissue promptly, and reduce wet foliage periods to under 2 hours after lights-off to limit pathogen germination. Document each intervention to refine IPM over subsequent cycles.
Harvest Timing, Drying, and Curing
Trichome assessment is the most reliable harvest marker for MAC V1 x GG4. For a balanced effect, harvest when the majority of gland heads are cloudy with 5–15% amber; for a heavier body, allow 15–25% amber. Pistil color alone can mislead with this cultivar due to its resin-dense presentation and environmental sensitivity.
Adopt a slow, controlled dry to protect terpenes and structure, aiming for 10–14 days at 60°F and 60% RH with gentle airflow. Once stems snap rather than bend, transfer to curing jars or bins at 58–62% RH and burp daily during the first week. Target final water activity between 0.55–0.65 for shelf-stable, aromatic flower that resists mold growth.
A patient cure of 4–8 weeks allows caryophyllene and limonene to integrate and reduces grassy volatiles, noticeably improving flavor. Many producers report the nose and smoothness improving week by week up to the 6–8 week mark. Proper cure can enhance perceived potency and increase consumer satisfaction scores compared to rushed product.
Yield Expectations and Quality Metrics
Yield will vary with phenotype, canopy skill, and environment, but MAC V1 x GG4 typically offers medium-high production. Indoors under high-efficiency LEDs, expect 400–550 g/m² in SCROG or well-managed SOG systems. Skilled growers with CO2 and optimized fertigation have reported higher numbers, particularly on GG4-leaning phenos with larger cola architecture.
In small indoor containers (3–5 gallons), 70–120 g per plant is a common range when using multi-plant canopies, while larger pots in fewer-plant setups can surpass 150 g per plant. Outdoor plants in favorable climates and 30+ gallon containers may reach 500–900 g per plant, assuming strong sun, ample soil, and robust IPM. Post-harvest loss to trimming is moderate; tight calyx stacking can translate to trim-to-bud ratios that favor net yield.
Quality metrics for top-shelf batches include intact trichome heads, terpene totals above 2.0%, clean burn, and ash indicating proper flush and cure. Consumer feedback often correlates high nose intensity with higher willingness to repurchase, making proper dry/cure as critical as cultivation for ROI. Batch COAs that pair 23–27% THC with 2–3% terpenes tend to perform well in competitive markets.
Lab Testing, Compliance, and Safety
Ensure compliance with regional regulations covering potency, microbial, heavy metals, and pesticide residues. For inhalable flower, typical microbial safety thresholds include total yeast and mold counts below 10^4 CFU/g and water activity under 0.65 to discourage growth. Heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury must fall below state-specific action limits, which often mirror pharmacopeia standards.
Given the dense, sticky nature of this cultivar, pay attention to post-harvest handling to minimize contamination. Use clean gloves, sanitize processing surfaces, and maintain dedicated trim tools to prevent cross-batch issues. Accurate sampling for potency and terpene analysis should involve a multi-point composite to reduce variance within large lots.
From a consumer safety perspective, clearly label potency, terpene highlights, and onset/duration expectations. Advise new users to start low—2.5–5 mg THC for edibles, or a single small inhalation—and wait to assess effects before redosing. Transparency around test results and cultivation practices can reduce returns and build brand trust.
Comparing MAC V1 x GG4 to Its Parents
Against MAC V1, this cross typically shows improved vigor and yield with slightly louder fuel notes overlaying the citrus-cookie core. MAC-leaning phenos sustain the famous frost and complex dessert-flavor finish but can be a bit more forgiving on feed and environment. Expect somewhat faster finish times compared to MAC-only runs, especially under optimized light and CO2.
Compared to GG4, MAC V1 x GG4 often refines the aroma with brighter top notes and a smoother, less abrasive exhale. The high remains powerful, but many users describe a clearer early phase and a more nuanced flavor arc. Structure may be slightly tighter than classic GG4, with more calyx density and less loose lower growth when trained properly.
In short, MAC V1 x GG4 aims to keep the knockout credentials of GG4 while raising the organoleptic sophistication of MAC. This makes it attractive for growers seeking a high-potency jar that also satisfies connoisseur palates. It is a logical progression for programs that already run either parent and want a fresh yet familiar profile.
Buyer and Consumer Tips
Look for jars that showcase frosted, intact trichomes and a nose that blooms immediately upon opening with citrus-diesel-spice. A clean cure expresses as a smooth, flavorful inhale without harsh throat scratch, and the aroma should persist for minutes after closing the jar. If possible, review the COA for THC in the mid-20s and terpenes above 2.0%, prioritizing caryophyllene and limonene presence.
For new or low-tolerance consumers, start with one small inhalation and wait 10–15 minutes to gauge potency. Typical inhaled sessions deliver roughly 5–10 mg THC depending on device and technique; titrate carefully to avoid overshooting the sweet spot. Edible products infused with this cultivar should be approached conservatively, with 2.5–5 mg THC as a prudent first dose.
Store flower in airtight containers at 58–62% RH, away from heat and light, to protect terpenes and cannabinoids over time. For best flavor, use clean glassware or a vaporizer set to 175–190°C to highlight citrus and cookie notes without overpowering fuel harshness. Consumers sensitive to strong diesel profiles may prefer low-temp vaping, which preserves bright top notes and softens the heavy base.
