A CBD Holiday Cocktail Recipe and an Interview With Shae Whitney: Owner and Founder of DRAM Apothecary

DRAM was founded as an herbal cocktail bitters company in 2011 by Shae Whitney and her husband Brady Becker. In 2018, they began crafting a line of Adaptogenic CBD products after Shae experienced relief from her own anxiety disorder by incorporating adaptogens into her daily life. Shae and Brady now reside on a historic farm in rural Salida, Colorado where they grow many of the herbs used to craft their line of products themselves.

We asked Shae to create a relaxing, CBD-infused holiday cocktail using her latest product, DRAM Sparkling Waters. (Editor's Note: we have tried these formulas and can attest to the deliciousness of their flavors and the success of its calming abilities) and also asked a few questions of the bartender turned farmer and apothecary expert. 

Where is DRAM available for purchase and where can it be shipped?

We can ship to all 50 states. We do not ship out of the US. We have over 400 retail locations carrying our goods across the US and they can be found in most upscale grocery stores and boutiques.

What are the proportions you recommend for each non-alcoholic drink?

If this is in reference to CBD products we suggest mixing 10-30 mg per beverage which would be 4-5 dropperfuls, or 1/2 - 1 full can of the sparkling waters. 

Do you mix the CBD with alcohol? If so, what are the proportions on those?

Same as non-alcoholic.

What was your inspiration for creating a CBD sparkling water?

We wanted to provide a daily means of CBD intake that was convenient and enjoyable. I am a sparkling water addict, it’s my favorite way to stay hydrated and I always look forward to a can of bubbles. It was important to us that the CBD sparkling waters contained no sugar or juice as sugar actually causes bodily stress, and the whole point is to unravel that stress using CBD!

What is your favorite response and reasoning for using CBD, especially during the holidays?

It’s a great, non-addictive and non-habit forming means of stress relief. Many people feel overwhelmed during the holidays, and turn to alcohol to cope, but that doesn’t necessarily remedy the underlying stress response, it can actually exacerbate stress (hello hangover!) CBD can assist you in feeling better BEFORE you get to that breaking point. When taking CBD and adaptogens daily you can expect to feel more level headed, you don’t get so irritable, life feels easier to manage.

We asked Shae to recommend a lovely, CBD-infused seasonal cocktail to fight holiday stress - it is equally delicious with and without the bourbon. 

Gingergrass CBD, Bourbon and Apple Cider

- 1 1/2 oz good bourbon

- 2 oz real spiced apple cider

- .75 oz water

- DRAM Gingergrass CBD Drops

Combine bourbon, apple cider and water over ice. Add 1-3 dropperfuls CBD and stir well. Garnish with orange peel or cinnamon stick. May also be served with hot cider!