Well, it is also in the way you grow your bud too obviously. Certain environmental conditions like high heat, I have found, reduces smell and flavor. Were your plants completely healthy? I find plants that get more sulfer, potassium, and magnesium have a bit better chance of better smell and flavor. Of course your drying and curing make a big difference, but nothing can make up for growing it bad-assedly.
I may be completely wrong, but try this, one third through bloom give it more.mag and sulfer, epson salts are good, for a week. Last third, again with epson salts for a week, and good doses of potassium and carbs for the whole last month.
Agreed, there's nothing particularly special about paper bags. They definitely affect the rate at which the bud is drying (open bag or closed matters too), but they are just one tool of many.It takes as long and slow of a drying process as possible without risking mold followed by a long slow cure ... and of course genetics that have give a good odor and flavor if those things are done correctly.
As for using paper bags. I've never used them, not once, and my crops don't lack a good taste and or fine odor unless it is the genetics that are grown lacked them to begin with.
I'm having problems keeping my temp down. Sometimes it gets to 90 degrees if that has anything to do with the taste and smell
with higher temps you're evaporating the terpens faster throughout the day.. also higher temps force the plant to spend more energy to keep itself cool.. thus less energy spent on flower production.. are you hydro or soil?
I have used Rumple's exact walkthrough for every one of my harvests. It works like a charm.