Description

1960 Rootz Bitters (75 cl, 30 % ABV)

Launched on Nigeria’s Independence Day and named for the year the nation first raised its flag, 1960 Rootz is much more than another herbal dram. It is a statement of cultural pride bottled at 30 % ABV. The recipe, now owned by Monument Distillers, steeps 35 African botanicals, myrrh, star anise, rhubarb, chamomile, thyme and orange peel among them, in neutral spirit before marrying with caramel and fruit essences. The result is a mahogany-coloured liqueur that snaps bitter-sweet, then resolves into warming spice and a lingering herbal echo. nigeria.monumentdistillers.comsupermart.ng

Pour it neat and aromatic waves of caramelised citrus, cola nut and menthol fill the glass. Sipped chilled, the palate starts viscous with molasses before pivoting to liquorice root, gentian and an undercurrent of dried fruit. A mild numbing tickle on the tongue hints at star anise oils. Herbal-medicine folklore claims bitters stimulate digestion and “energise the blood”; while the brand stops short of medical promises, loyal fans swear by a tot after heavy meals or long drives.

Mixology potential is vast. Use 30 ml Rootz, 45 ml dark rum and fresh pineapple for a “Naija Jungle Bird,” or charge it with soda for a lower-sugar highball that sings with grilled goat meat. The moderate 30 % ABV means it melds seamlessly into cocktail structures without overpowering base spirits.

Community footprint matters: Monument Distillers sources many of its botanicals from smallholder farmers in Ogun and Oyo states and runs agronomy workshops to encourage sustainable harvesting of roots and barks. nigeria.monumentdistillers.com The liquid itself is blended and bottled at a facility off the Lagos–Abeokuta Expressway, creating local jobs and shortening supply chains.

Storage is forgiving. Keep the bottle upright and out of direct sun; once opened, the high proof and sugar act as preservatives, keeping flavours vivid for 18 months.

FAQ

1. 1. What is the exact alcohol content?
      30 % ABV. addide.com
   2. How many botanicals are used?
      Thirty-five documented herbs, roots and fruits, including myrrh, star anise and chamomile. nigeria.monumentdistillers.com
   3. Is sugar added?
      Yes, caramel and fruit sugars round bitterness and give a liqueur-like mouthfeel.
   4. Can I use it in cocktails?
      Absolutely; its cola-nut and citrus backbone pairs with rum, whisky or simple soda.
   5. Any health claims?
      While fans cite digestive comfort and energy, no medicinal claims are FDA-approved; enjoy responsibly.
   6. Vegan-friendly?
      Yes, no animal products in extract or filtration.
   7. Best serving temperature?
      6–8 °C neat, or over ice with a slice of orange.
   8. Who owns the brand today?
      Monument Distillers Nigeria, part of Kensington Distillers & Vintners. adiba.com