DRAM Apothecary
ActiveOverview
DRAM Apothecary produces organic, alcohol-free herbal bitters, syrups, teas, CBD sparkling waters, drops, and switchels using wild-foraged Colorado plants. The company operates in the natural beverage and mixers market, emphasizing adaptogenic herbs, gluten-free formulations, and no synthetic additives. It is known for handcrafted products tied to regional botanicals and self-funded growth without external investment.
History
DRAM Apothecary was founded in 2011 by Shae Whitney and Brady Becker in Silver Plume, Colorado, a ghost town, starting with herbal cocktail bitters, teas, and syrups. The founders initially operated from a renovated bakery with a tasting room called The Bread Bar. In subsequent years, they relocated to Salida, Colorado, expanded to CBD products in 2018, and continued handcrafting all items in their workshop while maintaining independence.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Herbal Bitters | Alcohol-free wild botanical cocktail enhancers | $15 - $25 |
| Syrups | Organic pine and rose-based sweeteners | $15 - $25 |
| Teas | Wild-foraged herbal infusions | $10 - $20 |
| CBD Sparkling Waters | Organic cannabis-infused non-alcoholic beverages | $4 - $6 |
| CBD Drops | Adaptogenic herbal tinctures | $30 - $50 |
| Switchels | Fermented herbal drinking vinegars | $10 - $20 |
Manufacturing
All products are handcrafted from scratch in the company's workshop in Salida, Colorado. Founders Shae Whitney and Brady Becker oversee production, with Shae developing recipes using foraged and organic ingredients. Manufacturing remains in-house without outsourcing.
Notable Products
- Wild Mountain Sage Bitters - Alcohol-free bitters made with foraged sage from Colorado mountains.
- Juniper Rose Syrup - Organic syrup blending juniper and wild rose for cocktails.
- Pine Syrup - Syrup produced from pine needles harvested in Colorado.
- Woodlands Fir and Rosehip Tea - Herbal tea using fir tips and rosehips.
- CBD Sparkling Water - Organic, gluten-free sparkling beverage with CBD and adaptogens.
Reputation
DRAM Apothecary is regarded by mixologists and natural product enthusiasts for its authentic use of wild Colorado botanicals and commitment to organic, additive-free recipes. Professionals note its niche appeal in craft cocktail and wellness circles, with award-winning products. Some criticism exists around limited distribution and higher pricing relative to mass-market alternatives.