The lineup can now be found in outlets throughout Washington DC, Virginia and Maryland; additional East Coast markets rolling out second half of 2020.

Twelv 31 Spirits continues its expansion plans for 2020, and the brand is now available in Washington D.C., Virginia and Maryland. The gluten-free lineup includes two distinct products: Velvet Berry is a blend of white rum and vodka, flavored with all-natural fruit juices; while Silk is a pure expression of unflavored white spirits, consisting of white rum and vodka. Twelv 31 is looking to double distribution with additional East Coast markets by year’s end.

Founder and CEO, Bisi Nnaji, created the original Velvet Berry recipe for a New Year’s Eve party in 2013, and it was a surprise hit. The flavors were mildly tropical, delicately sweet, and resonated with the crowd. Three years later Twelv 31 Spirits was born, referring to the date of the brand’s origin.

Growing up, Bisi originally aspired to be a Medical Doctor, but changed his mind in his senior year at Howard University to pursue business. Five years later, October 2017 – at Howard University’s Homecoming Weekend, Twelv 31 Velvet Berry was released. The combination of natural tropical fruit flavors created a turquoise-colored drink, which is beautifully reflected in the bottle and in the cocktails. 

In an unusual move, the unflavored variation called Silk, followed in the footsteps of Velvet Berry, and was added to the lineup. “I felt that the blend of white rum and vodka offered a different and pleasing mouthfeel, and from a mixology standpoint, it presented a new level of complexity”, stated Bisi Nnaji, CEO of Twelv 31 Spirits. “Our goal is to offer consumers a delightful experience that happens to come in a bottle. The Twelv 31 vibe is relaxed, fun, and convivial; always meant for sharing. My goal is to delight consumers nationwide, and the fun begins with our first steps in the DC, VA, and MD markets.”