1. Conniption Was Inspired by a Childhood Memory
The origins of Conniption Gin are deeply personal. Co-founder Melissa Katrincic’s first encounter with gin came from sneaking olives out of her grandfather’s martini during cocktail hour. This early connection to gin sparked a lifelong passion that would eventually inspire the creation of Conniption Gin. Today, that nostalgic memory lives on through a brand that honors tradition but isn't afraid to break the mold.
2. It’s the First U.S. Distillery to Use Cold Vacuum Distillation
Conniption Gin made waves by being the first distillery in the United States to incorporate cold vacuum distillation in its gin-making process. This cutting-edge method allows Conniption to distill delicate botanicals like cucumber and honeysuckle at lower temperatures, preserving their fresh, vibrant flavors. Traditional methods of distillation would destroy these subtler notes, but Conniption’s innovative process ensures a complexity and balance rarely found in other gins.
3. Conniption Navy Strength Is a Six-Time Gold Medalist
Conniption Navy Strength Gin isn’t just strong in proof—it’s strong in accolades too. It has won the title of “Best in the U.S.” for six consecutive years at the World Gin Awards, making it one of the most awarded gins in its category. Its botanically intense yet smooth flavor profile makes it a favorite among martini lovers and bartenders alike.
4. Conniption Is Female-Founded and Led
In a male-dominated industry, Conniption Gin is breaking barriers. Melissa Katrincic, the co-founder and CEO, is the first U.S. female distiller to be inducted into the prestigious Gin Guild. She’s also one of the few women in the U.S. recognized as an expert in gin distillation and a trained gin-tasting judge. Her leadership has been pivotal in positioning Conniption Gin as a leader in the U.S. gin renaissance.
5. The Brand Name 'Conniption' is a Conversation Starter
The name “Conniption” is as bold as the gin itself. While the word traditionally refers to an outburst of excitement or anger, the brand embraces this playful spirit, inviting consumers to break away from convention and experience gin in a new way. Some may find the name polarizing, but it’s undeniably memorable, and for many, it perfectly captures the energy and excitement of trying something fresh and innovative.
6. It’s All About Balance: No Extracts, No Artificial Ingredients
Conniption Gin prides itself on using only natural ingredients—no extracts or artificial additives. This commitment to purity and flavor authenticity is evident in every bottle. Conniption’s botanicals, including juniper, coriander, fresh orange peel, cucumber, and honeysuckle, are carefully selected and distilled to maintain their natural essence.
By focusing on these all-natural ingredients and using advanced distillation techniques, Conniption creates gins that are both clean and complex, offering a smooth drinking experience that appeals to gin purists and newcomers alike.
7. Conniption Balances Art and Science in Its Distillation Process
What truly sets Conniption Gin apart is its dual distillation method, which combines traditional vapor infusion with modern cold vacuum distillation. The vapor distillation intensifies the flavor of hearty botanicals like juniper and coriander, while cold distillation preserves the more delicate botanicals, ensuring a harmonious balance between bold and subtle flavors. This fusion of art and science results in a gin that is versatile, flavorful, and refreshingly modern.
8. Conniption Gin Is Part of a U.S. Gin Renaissance
Gin is having a moment in the U.S., and Conniption is leading the charge. Once considered an old-fashioned spirit, gin has made a massive comeback thanks to brands like Conniption that are reimagining it for a modern audience. In 2021, Conniption co-founded the U.S. Gin Association to promote innovation and education within the category. The association works to elevate American-distilled gin, and Conniption’s role in this resurgence cannot be overstated.
9. Conniption’s Unique Bottle Design Is a Nod to Art Deco
When you pick up a bottle of Conniption Gin, you’ll notice its distinctive, art-deco-inspired design. This sleek and sophisticated packaging reflects the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation. The bottle is more than just a pretty face—it’s designed to stand out on the shelf and serve as a conversation starter at the bar. The modern aesthetic complements the cutting-edge distillation techniques and premium ingredients inside.
10. Conniption Is Expanding into New Markets
Conniption Gin’s reach is growing. While it began as a North Carolina-based brand, Conniption has rapidly expanded its presence across the U.S. In 2025, the brand will be launching in major markets like Boston and Chicago. This national expansion is paired with the opening of Conniption Cocktails & Cuisine, a unique cocktail bar and restaurant at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, which will bring Conniption’s award-winning gins to an even wider audience.