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With its roots deep in the heart of the sub-Saharan bushveld, the marula tree has ancient ties to South Africa's indigenous people — and animals. As the marula fruit ripens and falls to the ground, its fragrance is carried on the African breeze and picked up by eager, voracious elephants, who will walk for days to gorge themselves on its luscious fruit.

• The marula fruit is one of the most versatile fruits on the planet.
  
• No part of the fruit goes to waste — the stone is crushed for use in cosmetics and as an ingredient in food, and the skin and meat of the fruit is used to create the very popular marula liquor.
  
• It takes about 200 pieces of marula fruit to make a single liter of alcohol.
  
• Marula oil is high in natural anti-oxidants, making it a perfect ingredient for skin care products.
  
• According to local lore, women who eat marula fruit are more likely to get pregnant.
  
• Marula beer is commonly served at traditional feasts and ceremonies such as marriages and funerals. It is known as a sour drink and even though it has a strong kick, though it reportedly does not cause a hangover.
  
• Amarula Cream liqueur, introduced to the South African liquor market in 1989, is a delicious blend of the unique flavors of the marula fruit infused with the taste of chocolate, caramel and a hint of butterscotch.
  
• You can serve Amarula by itself or over ice, but it's delectable versatility means it can be used as a base or ingredient in any number of exciting cocktails.
  
• Marula liqueur has a shelf life of 24 months when stored in cool to room temperature conditions. Once opened, the shelf life is 6 months, but don't despair — once you taste this delicious nectar, your bottle won't last that long!
  
• Banana Dream:
  • Combine 1/3-oz. Banana liqueur, 1/3-oz. Amarula Cream liqueur and 1/4-oz. cream. Serve in a chilled glass with ice.

Distell
Aan-de-Wagenweg, Stellenbosch
Ph: + 27(0)2 -809-7000
www.distell.co.za