The Ice I had was harsher than the White Widow, which was harsher than the Thai x Skunk. So I'm sure the strain has alot to do with it. How long it's been cured I'm sure has something to do with it as well. However, I've smoked different selections from the same plant and some have been harsher. Does it have anything to do with the amount of leaf left in, how dry it actually is, or aything else? What are the things that contribute to harshness, so I can tailor my stash to me and my friends' taste? Believe it or not; I know some people that kind of like a little punch to their smoke. As for me, the smoother the better. However, I still enjoy a fresh uncured taste, for the most part.