MEDFORD, OREGON – December 10, 2018 -- PRESS RELEASE -- Grown Rogue has announced a formal partnership with Jeff Shepherd, voted one of North America's Top 10 Chocolatiers by Pastry Arts and Design, to create a line of dark chocolate cannabis edibles. The partnership between Shepherd and Grown Rogue features THC- and CBD-infused chocolate products under the GRAM and Grown Rogue brands--both wholly owned by Grown Rogue International.
Jeff Shepherd has a world-renowned reputation and has received international awards for his organic, artisan chocolate creations. Based in Southern Oregon, just three miles from the Grown Rogue indoor cultivation center, his chocolate bars, truffles and caramels have been a favorite of chocolate connoisseurs worldwide. "For many years, I've been selectively searching for a cannabis company to partner with," said Shepherd. "I knew after my first discussions with Grown Rogue's co-founders, Obie and Sarah Strickler, that they were the right fit."
Even before Shepherd and Grown Rogue joined forces, the points of alignment were clear and evident. Both parties pride themselves on organic best practices, both have long standing roots in the Southern Oregon community, and both have created respected brands that have garnered national attention.
"In carefully planning our edibles line, we wanted to find an expert that not only shared our values but shared our vision for the right experience for customers," said Obie Strickler, CEO and co-founder.
"Jeff and his team have been pillars of the community and create delicious products as well as delightful experiences so we were excited to know Jeff felt the same way towards our team," added Sarah Strickler, Grown Rogue's co-founder and director of community relations.
The first product that the partnership is distributing is under the GRAM brand--focused on quality, affordable cannabis edibles. "The GRAM brand is the ideal way to launch our partnership as we gain market insights and establish our product line," added Strickler. "In 2019, we will launch more edibles under our premium brand - Grown Rogue."
The dark chocolate bar contains 50mg of THC or CBD carefully mixed to ensure the dominant flavor remains the award-winning chocolate recipe.
"As in many areas of the cannabis industry, most edible products have been invented with a ‘cannabis first’ thought process, but we decided that a more optimal path was to ensure that what we provide to consumers appeals to their senses in terms of look, taste and aroma. To accomplish this vision, we partnered with one of the most respected chocolatiers in the industry--just in time to have product available for the holiday season," said Strickler.
GRAM Dark Chocolate edibles are now available in a select number of the 221 Oregon dispensaries that carry the Grown Rogue brands. Plans to distribute throughout California are in place for the first quarter of 2019.
