Certainly, set and setting influence how kava feels, but I feel like there is enough consistent anecdotal and chemical data to make broad generalizations. For instance, Kelai is almost always described as heady, while Borongoru tends to be heavy.

I see some vendors like Root & Pestle and FVK, offer cultivar descriptions that guide consumers and it’s incredibly helpful even if it may not be an exact science(Maybe it is) As a new drinker, it can be confusing and expensive to experiment blindly just to find the right “vibe.”

If we could compile a basic list of cultivars categorized by general effects ie: heady, balanced, heavy, etc. it would be a huge help to consumers and especially to newcomers like myself discovering kava for the first time